STC 60 means that loud music is faintly audible through a partition or structure.
Sound Transmission Class (STC) is a rating system used in the building industry to indicate how effectively a building partition, such as a wall, floor, or ceiling, reduces airborne sound. A higher STC rating generally signifies better sound insulation properties.
Understanding STC Ratings
Different STC ratings correspond to varying levels of sound isolation and the audibility of sounds from the other side of a barrier. Based on the provided reference:
- STC 55: Loud Music Audible
- STC 60: Loud Music Faintly Audible
- STC 65 and Above: Sound Transmission Class is no longer an accurate measure for these higher performance levels according to the reference.
STC 60 Explained
Specifically, an STC rating of STC 60 indicates a significant level of sound reduction. As noted in the reference: "Loud Music Faintly Audible". This means that if loud music is playing on one side of a wall or barrier rated at STC 60, you would only be able to hear it very quietly or faintly on the other side.
This level of sound isolation is considered quite good and is often targeted in spaces where noise reduction is important, such as between apartments, offices, or recording studios, although even higher ratings might be desired in specialized applications.
Achieving an STC 60 rating typically requires robust construction techniques and materials, potentially including:
- Denser wall materials
- Multiple layers of drywall
- Acoustic insulation within wall cavities
- Sound-isolating clips or channels
- Careful sealing of gaps and penetrations
While STC 60 significantly reduces sound transmission, it's important to remember that perceptions of "faintly audible" can vary, and sound flanking paths (sound traveling around or through adjacent structures, not just directly through the wall) can also impact overall sound isolation performance.
