Acoustic performance simulations of vertical and horizontal sealing systems in residential buildings in the state of Bahia from 2014 to 2024

In Brazil, the building performance standard NBR 15575, effective since 2013, establishes minimum requirements and parameters for sound insulation between residential units. Over the years, the need for a new design methodology with more defined specifications, starting from the incorporation phase, working with concurrent engineering, has become increasingly evident. To predict results during the design phase and propose appropriate interventions for each building's construction system, the use of specialized acoustic simulation software, such as Sonarchitect, is essential. This study evaluated the predicted acoustic performance, based on simulations, of slabs and walls in more than 200 residential buildings in Bahia, Brazil, from 2014 to 2024. The analysis revealed a significant shift in 2019, driven by construction changes reflecting increased awareness in the real estate market: there has been a notable increase in compliance with the minimum impact noise performance requirements in horizontal sealing systems, with a trend towards achieving intermediate performance levels in the past two years. However, conventional vertical sealing systems, such as ceramic or concrete bricks, continue to face challenges in meeting minimum performance, especially in shared walls involving bedrooms. Precise simulation interpretation has enabled optimized acoustic interventions, preventing future issues and ensuring more comfortable buildings.