The sound reduction of an armoured door refers to its ability to reduce the transmission of sound between separate spaces, limiting how much outside noise reaches the inside of a home or office.
This parameter is measured in decibels (dB) and represents the difference between the noise level perceived outside the door and the level heard inside.
The higher the sound reduction value, the more effective the door will be at ensuring a quiet and comfortable environment.
Why it matters and where it applies
Good acoustic insulation is essential for living comfort, especially in urban settings or near sources of noise such as busy roads, airports, railways, shops or industrial sites.
In homes and offices too, an armoured door with high sound reduction helps improve quality of life and productivity by cutting down on noise interference.
Sound reduction values in armoured doors
The acoustic performance of an armoured door is certified to the European standards UNI EN ISO 10140 and UNI EN ISO 717-1, which govern laboratory testing and the classification of sound insulation.
Typical sound reduction values are:
- 25-30 dB: basic insulation, sufficient for quieter settings (for example interior spaces).
- 30-35 dB: good acoustic protection for homes in moderately noisy urban areas.
- 35-40 dB: high acoustic insulation, suited to flats on busy streets, offices or buildings near public venues.
- 40-45 dB: excellent insulation, recommended for situations with intense noise (for example near stations, airports or industrial sites).
Factors that affect sound reduction
The level of acoustic insulation an armoured door provides depends on several construction factors:
- Leaf construction: using sound-absorbing materials inside the door, such as rock wool, expanded polyurethane sound-insulating panels or rubber layers, helps dissipate sound waves.
- Perimeter seals: rubber or silicone seals fitted along the edges of the door reduce the passage of air and, as a result, of sound.
- Locking system: an airtight closure, thanks to a multi-point lock and an automatic drop-down threshold seal, prevents sound from escaping.
- Frame and subframe: the material and thickness of the frame affect how sound vibrations travel; reinforced steel structures with sound-deadening materials improve performance.
- Type of installation: correct fitting with sealing between the wall and the frame stops sound from passing through gaps you cannot see.
Conclusion
Sound reduction is an essential feature for armoured doors, particularly in settings where cutting down noise is a key requirement.
Choosing a certified door with a suitable insulation value improves quality of life, ensuring peace and quiet and a comfortable home.