Abstract

Since 1974 the California Building Standards Law has required that new multifamily housing, hotels, and motels be designed to prevent the intrusion of exterior noise above a community noise equivalent level of 45 dB. At about the same time, the State also adopted energy insulation standards which require low air infiltration rates for new dwellings. While these requirements seem to be complementary from the standpoint of noise insulation, the relatively mild climate of costal communities often obviates the need for air conditioning or even mechanical ventilation. This paper discusses some of the design, cost, and enforcement conflicts between adequate ventilation and noise insulation for areas with mild climates.

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