Acoustic Ceilings
We are SAS - Special Acoustic Services - so acoustics is right at the heart of what we do. As a technology-driven company, we are proud of our pioneering and long-standing position as market leaders in acoustic ceiling design and manufacture.
ACOUSTIC KNOWLEDGE
SAS achieves superior aesthetics, performance, and delivery through our comprehensive acoustic knowledge, design expertise, and technical leadership. We use advanced acoustic modeling techniques and in-house test facilities to develop new products and improve existing ones. In order to provide our clients with expertise and meet their building requirements, SAS offers support from an in-house acoustic specialist.
What is an acoustic ceiling?
An acoustic ceiling is a form of suspended ceiling that has been designed to absorb and control sound within a large space, in which sound would otherwise travel and prove distracting or distressing. They are most commonly used in offices and public spaces such as libraries.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ACOUSTICS
In building design, especially when repurposing a building for a commercial function, the ceiling can risk being an afterthought. However, those who understand acoustics know that ceiling design can have a significant impact on whether or not a space is fit-for-purpose. As one of the largest surface areas in a building, ceilings can be responsible for either absorbing or amplifying sound.
It is essential that a sound-absorbing product is employed in the ceiling area to control reverberance and occupational noise produced. Whether the space is somewhere used for static work like an office, or transient use, such as an entrance hall, how sound behaves is critical to making it a positive place to be in.
ACOUSTICS AND WELLBEING
Interior spaces of high activity can be acoustically challenging. Open plan layouts, high ceilings, and large spaces cause sound to bounce off of surfaces, resulting in the sound becoming magnified. Human beings are designed with a built-in aversion to noisy environments. High noise levels trigger our stress response which means we are conditioned to be uncomfortable in environments that expose us to sustained uncontrolled sound. Therefore, effectively managing acoustics is essential for ensuring the wellbeing of those using the space, particularly in working or learning environments. Furthermore, although almost all persons struggle in environments where hearing is a challenge, those with hearing impediments and those who are neurodiverse may be at increased risk of finding amplified environments unbearable.
What are the different types of acoustic ceilings?
Suspended ceilings
These tile-based ceilings work well in office settings, to keep background chatter to a minimum.
Ceiling baffles
A striking look pair with acoustic functionality for contemporary ceilings that help control noise.
Polynodal ceilings
Creating a multi-faceted acoustic ceiling design, polynodal ceilings are good to use on complex surfaces.
Ceiling rafts
Perfect for lower ceilings, ceiling rafts are composed of long panels with acoustic qualities.
Linear ceilings
A linear ceiling, made of metal panels, can absorb and redirect sound around a room, giving you ultimate control.
Bespoke ceilings
When you work with experts like us here at SAS, a completely bespoke ceiling that also controls sound is possible.
SAS ACOUSTIC PRODUCTS
SAS acoustic ceiling products absorb sound using an open-cell porous material faced with a perforated metal sheet. Most ceiling tiles rely entirely on the porous material behind the perforated metal to absorb the sound. Micro-perforated tiles are the exception and can offer sound absorption without a distinct porous backing. In both cases, sound is absorbed because the air particles have to vibrate within a medium that limits this movement. Porous absorbers are most effective when they coincide with air that is vibrating a lot. However, the vibration of air particles is not the same at every frequency or in every location within a room. As such, the effectiveness of a sound absorber is dependent on where it is placed.
SAS offers a range of ceiling products from suspended metal ceilings to baffles, ceiling rafts, nodal ceilings and more. Our team are able to create totally bespoke acoustic solutions for any space.
SAS’ clients benefit from our design expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and product quality as well as our specialist acoustic guidance including advice on acceptable levels of acoustic privacy, reverberance, and the acoustic characteristics of various types of spaces. We not only produce leading acoustic ceiling products, we also make sure they are used in the right way and we apply years of design and acoustic experience to make sure they work.
The confidence and assurance that SAS delivers are exemplified through the awards and accreditations achieved through the projects we have been involved in.
To learn more about the science of acoustics and its application within buildings, review our products' acoustic performance as well as our attenuation and absorption statements, contact us today to discuss your project's acoustic requirements
Why choose SAS?
We’re delighted here at SAS to specialise in acoustic ceilings, and it’s our pleasure for the fantastic sound absorption of our products to create a meaningful difference within a whole range of commercial spaces.
With years of experience, we can help guide you through the options, of which there are many, so that you can choose the most effective for your needs. We’re design-led as well as passionate about high performance, so you can be reassured of a ceiling that will not only create a calm environment, but also look stunning too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How important is having an acoustic ceiling?
Sound can be so distracting, whether it’s in an office or an entrance hall. An acoustic ceiling will bring an air of calm to any commercial space - and who doesn’t want that?
Can I still access utilities through an acoustic ceiling?
Yes, whilst acoustic ceilings cleverly cover unsightly wiring and plumbing, access to the ceiling void is still made easy.
Are acoustic ceilings long lasting?
Yes! Many acoustic ceiling solutions have a lifespan upwards of 20 years.
How can I work with SAS on an acoustic ceiling?
The needs of every commercial space are different, so it all starts with an initial conversation about what the requirements are for your ceiling. Kick things off with a phone call or an email to our knowledgeable team, so we can get the ball rolling on matching you up with our most suitable acoustic ceiling products.
Can lighting be integrated with an acoustic ceiling?
It can; many of our integrated ceiling lights work amazingly with our acoustic ceiling options.
