An education in ceiling specification

From primary and secondary schools to colleges and universities, the education sector comprises a mix of different building types but creating a comfortable interior space that supports learning and wellbeing is always a key requirement. In this blog, we take a look at the importance of smart specification and why choosing the right ceiling system for your next education project can be as easy as ABC.

Suspended ceiling systems are perfect for a wide range of projects and the education sector really showcases the range of creative options available. From cost-effective and highly durable mineral ceiling systems that offer excellent sound absorption in noisy classrooms, to innovative metal acoustic canopies and baffles that combine acoustic performance with high-end aesthetics for higher education settings.

So what are the key considerations when choosing ceiling systems and how can specifiers be sure that the products they choose make the grade?

A is for acoustics

Acoustic performance is one of the most important considerations when choosing interior building products for use in educational buildings and ceiling systems are no exception. The requirements are outlined in Building Bulletin 93, Acoustic Design of Schools, and it’s important to choose a ceiling system that offers the correct balance between sound absorption and sound attenuation. As the acoustic requirements will depend on the use of the room, more than one ceiling system may be required across the project as classrooms, communal spaces, sports halls or specific rooms such as those for music lessons or quiet study, will each need to be considered.

For example, according to BB93 and Approved Document E, a corridor needs at minimum a class C absorber equal or greater to the floor area. This is normally fulfilled via a suspended ceiling. A denser class C absorber will offer sound insulation, unlike a class A absorber. Therefore, the corridor will retain the sound without it transferring into adjacent classrooms. In a classroom, a class A absorber is useful to ensure that the teacher can communicate with the students effectively and noise doesn’t disrupt learning. Similarly in large lecture theatres, there will be a need to reduce echoes and boost speech intelligibility, therefore a high absorber will be beneficial.

One of the most popular solutions for sound proofing classrooms and study areas is a suspended ceiling incorporating high-performance ceiling tiles with excellent sound insulation properties. Preventing sound from leaving or entering a room may be important, i.e. for a music room, principle’s office or library. A good insulator can also prevent noise from services in the void or rain on the roof from entering the classrooms. Acoustic suspended ceilings also have the added benefit of concealing essential pipework and utilities or, in the case of refurbishment projects, disguising an unsightly original ceiling.

B is for budgets

Choosing a product with a high density will ensure that the ceiling tiles maintain their integrity when handled over a prolonged period of time and will not develop dark patches where dust and dirt accumulates.

Although costs are important, it is worth remembering that some mineral ceiling tiles have a high formaldehyde or chemical content which can contribute to VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) releasing into the air. It’s important to maintain good air quality and a comfortable interior environment within education settings, so any ceiling tiles specified should demonstrate compliance with BS EN 13964 which outlines the best practice requirements and test methods for suspended ceilings. A key part of this is clause 4.5.2 which relates to the formaldehyde content of ceiling tiles.

Although slightly more expensive as an initial outlay, metal ceiling tiles are also an effective choice as they offer exceptional design flexibility and enhanced durability, which can help reduce long-term maintenance costs. Robust, perforated metal ceiling tiles, such as galvanised steel or aluminium, incorporate a sound absorbing fleece backing to achieve class C as standard. An optional class A acoustic pad will effectively maximise sound absorption and the tiles are available in a range of perforation patterns.

C is for creativity (and reducing carbon!)

Investing in metal ceiling tiles can also help sustainability. As well as sourcing ceiling tiles that have a high recycled content, you should also consider the embodied carbon. You could meet project carbon targets by partnering with a manufacturer that offers products utilising low carbon steel produced using cleaner, renewable energy.

On the other hand, the most appropriate type of acoustic ceiling system depends greatly on the room’s functionality, size, design and the project’s budget. However, meeting these challenges doesn’t have to stifle creativity or design innovation. In terms of ceiling designs, this is where the use of acoustic baffles, rafts and canopies can make a real impact. These solutions are also effective for projects where installing a tiled suspended ceiling may not be possible and for retrofit projects where there is a need to enhance, rather than replace, the ceiling.

Acoustic baffles, rafts and canopies work much in the same way as a modular ceiling. They suspend from the soffit via wires or rods and can help reduce reverberation and reflected sound. All are suitable for large open plan areas such as lecture theatres, assembly halls, and collaborative work areas that are often within higher education colleges and university buildings. The overall interior design scheme can also be enhanced, with different configurations, shapes, colours and sizes available.

Problem solving through collaboration

When creating aspirational learning environments, it’s important to take a holistic approach to the interior design and with ceilings playing such an integral role in both acoustics and aesthetics, close collaboration with the supply chain is vital. Through early engagement with the product manufacturers, specifiers can tap into their expertise to identify solutions for any potential problems, give help with product selection as well as suggest opportunities for value-engineering. By reducing the learning curve, project teams can then fully realise the design potential for ceilings in the education sector.

Please contact our team to discuss your next project.