Scale where the number of decibels is associated with an activity and the related tolerance thresholds

Scale where the number of decibels is associated with an activity and the related tolerance thresholds

Decibel scale, home comfort and Stratifon solutions

The decibel (dB) measures sound intensity, but each +10 dB corresponds to a 10-fold increase in intensity. Understanding the decibel scale means knowing when noise becomes a health, regulatory and liveability issue.

The decibel scale: activities and tolerance thresholds

Level (dB) Example of sound Effect on the person Zone
10–20 Breathing, rustling leaves Almost imperceptible Comfort
30 Whispers, library Absolute silence Comfort
40 Quiet home Minimal noise Acceptable
50 Normal conversation Beginning of disturbance Critical threshold
60 Distant vacuum cleaner Moderate disturbance Disturbance
70 Loud TV, hair dryer Noticeable discomfort Discomfort
80 Heavy traffic Danger if prolonged Pre-critical
90 Chainsaw, car horn Possible hearing damage Danger
100+ Club, jackhammer Immediate risk Acute damage

Recommended environments and acoustic solutions

Environment Typical noise Recommended intervention
Bedroom > 30 dB Wall insulation with soundproofing panels
City living room > 50 dB Double glazing, acoustic drywall
Open-plan office > 60 dB Ceiling sound-absorbing panels
Apartment on the street > 70 dB Acoustic barriers, thermal-acoustic insulation systems

Technical soundproofing solutions

  • Sound-absorbing panels: reduce indoor reverberation.

  • Soundproof panels: block airborne noise transmission between rooms (e.g., Stratifon).

  • Combined panels: combine absorption + acoustic insulation.

  • Dry systems: drywall, false ceilings, floating floors.

Stratifon is a high-performance soundproof panel, designed to improve the passive acoustic insulation of walls and floors, helping to comply with current regulations and achieve a better building acoustic class (according to UNI 11367).

Request a free consultation: transform your spaces into acoustically comfortable environments with Stratifon.

Reference regulations

Building acoustic insulation is governed by various Italian regulations:

DPCM 5 December 1997

Establishes the passive acoustic requirements of buildings. Minimum values to be respected:

Parameter Minimum required value
Insulation between housing units (R’w) ≥ 50 dB
Façade insulation (D₂m,nT,w) ≥ 40 dB
Footstep noise (L’n,w) ≤ 63 dB
Noise from continuously operating systems (LAeq) ≤ 35 dB day / 25 dB night

The above values apply to new buildings and major renovations.

UNI 11367:2010

Classifies the acoustic performance of buildings into 4 classes (I = excellent, IV = poor). Allows you to enhance property value during sale or rental.

The contribution of Stratifon

Stratifon soundproof panels help designers and companies achieve:

  • The legal minimum limits (DPCM 5/12/1997),
  • Higher performance, up to Acoustic Class I according to UNI 11367,
  • Greater indoor comfort and protection from urban noise.

Effects of noise on health

  • Sleep disorders
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Decreased productivity
  • Cardiovascular problems

Improving sound insulation is not a luxury, but a strategic choice for health, home comfort and real estate value.

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