Achieving minimum impact insulation class 50 rating using resilient clip technology in lightweight construction.

Abstract

Resilient clip technology is an alternative to resilient channel for supporting gypsum wallboard in fire rated wall and floor‐ceiling assemblies. Lightweight wood frame construction presents challenges in meeting building code requirements for impact insulation class (IIC) and sound transmission class (STC) ratings in floor‐ceiling assemblies. Through laboratory testing we were able to compare different floor‐ceiling assemblies commonly used in multi‐family construction. Two different structures were tested, an 18 in. open web truss, 24 in. o.c., and a 12 in. engineered joist (TJI) 24 in. o.c. Various finish floor coverings were used including ceramic tile, vinyl, and engineered wood. Structures achieved minimum IIC and STC 50 with and without 3/4 in. Gypsum concrete. Resilient rubber underlayment of varying thickness can further improve the IIC and STC ratings of the assembly as can adding a second layer of gypsum wallboard.