Passive Design
Designing the building and the spaces within it to benefit from natural light, ventilation and even temperatures.
Using Fences, Walls and Earth as Noise Barriers
High-mass fences or walls, or earth mounds, can reduce noise from traffic, schools and other external sources, provided the source is lower than or level with the house. Barriers are ineffective at reducing noise originating from a higher level (such as an elevated roadway).
- Design factors for a site with loud noise source on the north side
Frequently the ideal house orientation is not possible if there is a significant source of noise on the north side. Careful design can minimise the disturbance caused by the noise, while still allowing sun into the house.
Brick/concrete wall
One option for noise reduction is a 2 metre high brick or concrete masonry wall. This is a very expensive option. It will be very effective at stopping direct noise, but some noise will pass over the barrier. A similar effect may be achieved by building up a similar height earth mound.
Timber fence
A 2 metre high timber fence with solid palings (no gaps) or a sheet material or a combination of both can also be used. The palings or sheet material will have to have a minimum mass of 12 kilograms per square metre. The fence will have to have no gaps or cracks, and there must be no space under the fence at the ground. This is an expensive option. It will be effective at reducing noise, but some noise will pass over the barrier. Effectiveness can be improved by placing the fence on top of an earth bank.
Trees and shrubs
Trees and shrubs are ineffective as an acoustic barrier but they may have psychological benefits in that they can provide a visual barrier.