Question 1

What is the main cause of traffic noise?

Accepted Answer

At speeds above 50 km/h, the main source of noise is the contact between the tyres and the road surface, not the engine. This explains why electric vehicles still produce traffic noise at higher speeds. The noise output increases exponentially with speed.

Question 2

How many decibels does a noise barrier block?

Accepted Answer

On average, a noise barrier reduces sound pressure by 5 to 15 decibels (dB). This may not seem like much, but a reduction of 10 dB is perceived by the human ear as a halving of the noise. The exact reduction depends on the height, material, and distance from the source.

Question 3

What is the difference between a sound-absorbing and a sound-reflecting barrier?

Accepted Answer

A reflective barrier bounces the sound back (often towards the source), while an absorbent barrier 'soaks up' the sound into the material. For residential areas and narrow gardens, we often recommend absorbent barriers to prevent echoes and nuisance on the other side.

Question 4

Where should a noise barrier be placed for maximum attenuation?

Accepted Answer

A noise barrier is most effective when placed as close as possible to the noise source (e.g., the road) or as close as possible to the receiver (your garden or home). Placing it exactly in the middle between the source and receiver is the least efficient. Our experts can advise you on the optimal position.

Question 5

Does planting or a hedge help against traffic noise?

Accepted Answer

The effect of planting as a noise buffer is often overestimated. According to research by the Agentschap Wegen en Verkeer, a dense forest of at least 100 metres deep is needed for a reduction of only 3 to 5 dB. A hedge or a few rows of trees mainly provides a visual screen, but hardly any acoustic attenuation. A noise barrier is much more effective.

Question 6

What is the difference between a noise berm and a noise barrier?

Accepted Answer

A noise berm (earth wall) requires more height than a noise barrier to achieve the same level of attenuation, because sound diffracts over the sloped embankment. Furthermore, a berm takes up much more space. Therefore, in most gardens and along roads, a noise barrier is the more efficient solution.

Question 7

How much does a noise barrier cost per metre in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Our noise barriers start from €200 per m², including installation, excluding VAT. The final price depends on the chosen material, the height of the barrier, and the specific site conditions. Request a no-obligation quote for an exact price calculation.

Question 8

Do I need a permit for a noise barrier in my garden?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, a boundary partition behind the front building line can be up to 2 metres high without a permit. For barriers taller than 2 metres, an environmental permit is usually required. We are happy to advise you on the local regulations in your municipality.

Question 9

What are the rules for installing noise barriers on property lines?

Accepted Answer

When installing on or near the property line, it is important to consider local building regulations and to consult with your neighbours. Most municipalities have specific rules regarding distance. We can advise you on the regulations applicable to your situation.

Question 10

What can I do if a noise barrier alone is not enough?

Accepted Answer

For maximum noise reduction, the Agentschap Wegen en Verkeer recommends a combined approach: measures at the source (quiet asphalt, speed reduction), along the transmission path (noise barrier or berm), and at the facade (acoustic insulation, soundproof windows). We can advise you on the best combination for your situation.

Question 11

Are noise barriers also effective against low-frequency noise, such as from lorries?

Accepted Answer

Low-frequency noise (from heavy lorries, buses) is more difficult to attenuate than high-frequency noise. A noise barrier does help, but optimal attenuation of low-frequency noise often requires a taller barrier or a combination with facade insulation. Our experts can perform a customised noise analysis.

Question 12

Can Noise Solutions install a noise barrier on any type of surface?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide custom solutions for almost any surface. Whether it's soft ground (requiring foundation piles) or a hard surface like concrete or asphalt (using base plates), our technicians ensure a storm-proof construction.

Question 13

Which materials are most effective against ambient noise?

Accepted Answer

Noise Solutions works with various materials such as coir, wood, aluminium, and mineral wool. Coir barriers (like our Kokowall) are very popular because they not only absorb sound but can also be immediately covered with climbing plants for a natural look.

Question 14

Which noise barriers are suitable for motorways and industrial areas?

Accepted Answer

For large-scale projects such as motorways, industrial estates, and business parks, we offer the Noise-Reducer. This is a high-performance noise barrier specially developed for maximum noise reduction in areas with heavy traffic and industrial applications.

Question 15

Can I also buy just the noise panels without installation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, that is possible. In addition to our full service (consultation, delivery, and installation), we can also supply just the panels if you wish to carry out the installation yourself. Please contact us for options and pricing.

Question 16

How long does a noise barrier from Noise Solutions last?

Accepted Answer

Our noise barriers are durable and low-maintenance. Depending on the chosen material (such as galvanised steel or treated wood), the life expectancy is 20 to 25 years.

Question 17

In which regions does Noise Solutions install noise barriers?

Accepted Answer

We operate throughout Belgium and Luxembourg. From Antwerp, Ghent and Brussels to Liège, Namur and Luxembourg, our team is happy to visit you for a no-obligation site inspection and quote.

Question 18

What noise standard applies to a heat pump or air conditioning unit in Flanders?

Accepted Answer

According to the Code van goede praktijk from the Departement Omgeving Vlaanderen (September 2024), the noise from a heat pump or air conditioning unit at the property line (at a height of 1.5 m) may not exceed 45 dB(A) during the day (7:00-22:00) and 40 dB(A) at night (22:00-7:00). If this guideline value is exceeded, neighbours can file a complaint, and the owner is obliged to take measures.

Question 19

My neighbour's heat pump makes a humming noise, what are my rights?

Accepted Answer

A typical heat pump hum is considered 'tonal noise' by the Flemish Code van goede praktijk. Consequently, a penalty of +5 dB is applied during official measurements: a unit producing 42 dB is assessed as 47 dB, thus exceeding the daytime standard of 45 dB. You can request a noise measurement at your property line and at open windows. If the limit is exceeded, the owner is required to take acoustic measures, such as a screen or an enclosure.

Question 20

Does an enclosure around a heat pump really help?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but the Code van goede praktijk considers a full enclosure a last resort, not a first choice. An enclosure must be correctly sized with sufficient ventilation openings, otherwise the unit may freeze up or malfunction. We usually first advise an acoustic screen (noise barrier) between the unit and the property line, combined with absorbent panels. This is more effective, requires less maintenance, and preserves the heat pump's performance.

Question 21

What is the difference between structure-borne noise and airborne noise from a heat pump?

Accepted Answer

Structure-borne noise is caused by vibrations that travel through the facade or floor into the building. This is solved with vibration dampers under the unit and a base that weighs at least as much as the unit itself. Airborne noise is the audible hum that spreads through the air; this is tackled with a noise barrier or absorbent panels between the source and the neighbouring property. We often combine both solutions for maximum results.

Question 22

How do I solve heat pump noise nuisance?

Accepted Answer

Heat pump noise nuisance is tackled in three steps. First, tame the source: activate the silent night mode, check the vibration dampers and base, and ensure free air circulation. If the noise still exceeds the Flemish standard of 45 dB(A) daytime and 40 dB(A) at night at the property line, we install acoustic shielding or sound-absorbing panels between your unit and the neighbours. A full enclosure is technically possible but, according to the Code of Good Practice, only a last resort because it requires forced ventilation to keep the heat pump working properly. Request an on-site acoustic analysis for a tailored solution.

Question 23

What does it cost to solve heat pump noise nuisance?

Accepted Answer

The cost of solving heat pump noise nuisance depends on the chosen approach. Vibration dampers and small interventions cost a few hundred euros. An acoustic noise barrier between the unit and the property line starts at around EUR 200 per m² including installation (excl. VAT), where 4 to 8 m² is usually enough. A full enclosure with forced ventilation scales with the size of the unit. We come on site without obligation, perform an acoustic assessment in line with the Code of Good Practice, and propose the most cost-effective solution.

Question 24

What can I do about airco noise nuisance from my neighbours?

Accepted Answer

Airco noise nuisance from the neighbours falls under the same Flemish Code of Good Practice as heat pumps. At the property line (at 1.5 m height) and at opening windows, the guideline value is max. 45 dB(A) during the day and 40 dB(A) at night, with a +5 dB tonal penalty for an audible humming tone. First step: report the issue politely but formally to your neighbour and ask whether the silent night mode can be activated. If nothing is done, you can file a complaint with the municipality or environmental inspection and request a noise measurement. If the standard is exceeded, your neighbour is legally obliged to take acoustic measures, such as shielding or an enclosure around the outdoor unit. We support both the owner and the affected neighbour in this process.

Question 25

What noise standard applies to a neighbour's airco unit in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

In Flanders the same standard applies to airco outdoor units as to heat pumps, as set out in the Code of Good Practice of the Department of Environment (September 2024): max. 45 dB(A) between 7 am and 10 pm, max. 40 dB(A) between 10 pm and 7 am, measured at the property line and at opening windows of neighbouring houses. A typical split airco produces a low-frequency hum that is assessed as 'tonal noise', resulting in a +5 dB penalty during measurement. If your neighbour's airco exceeds that standard, you have the right to request a noise measurement and corrective measures.

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