Armstrong Ceiling Systems has introduced Total Acoustics ceiling panels, a new generation of ceiling panels that feature the ideal combination of both sound absorption and sound blocking in one ceiling panel.

By providing the ability to both absorb unwanted sound and block noise from traveling into adjacent spaces, Total Acoustics ceiling panels are an ideal choice for today’s flexible workspaces where a mix of private offices, quiet concentration areas, and collaborative teaming areas often share the same floor space.

By meeting the acoustical needs of each type of workspace in a single panel, Total Acoustics ceilings also provide the ability to reconfigure the workspaces without changing the ceiling while still meeting the acoustical requirements of each space.

“Creating new products designed for acoustics in today’s flexible interiors takes on new importance as traditional acoustical recommendations are not always compatible with current design trends,” says Jeff Hederick, Armstrong Vice President of Marketing for Commercial Ceilings. “Architects today are challenged with designing spaces that have multiple functions. Now the science behind the ceiling is able to provide them with both high sound absorption and sound blocking in the same panel.”

Internationally known sound and communication expert, Julian Treasure, collaborated with Armstrong for the introduction of Total Acoustics ceilings. “Noise is the number one problem in modern offices,” he states. “A big part of addressing this issue is making sure unwanted sound from adjacent spaces doesn’t intrude or interfere. It’s time architects start designing for our ears as well as our eyes.”

Offered in Variety of Product Lines
Ceiling panels featuring new Total Acoustics performance are offered in a variety of Armstrong product lines, including Ultima, Calla, Lyra, Cirrus, Fine Fissured, Mesa, Canyon, and School Zone.

To make it easier to specify the right ceiling for a space, Total Acoustics panels are rated as good, better, and best based on their combination of sound absorption as denoted by their Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) and sound blocking as denoted by their Ceiling Attenuation Class (CAC).

To meet the criteria for Total Acoustics performance, ceiling panels must have an NRC of 0.60 or greater and a CAC of 35 or greater. Ceilings with a CAC less than 25 do not adequately contribute to sound blocking.

Easy to Specify Right Ceiling
Total Acoustics ceilings rated as “Best” have an NRC of 0.80 or higher and a CAC 35 or higher.
They are ideal for high traffic spaces or multipurpose spaces where maximum sound absorption and sound blocking are needed to help keep noise levels down and prevent disruption to adjacent spaces.

“Better” ceilings have an NRC of 0.70­0.75 and a CAC 35 or higher. They are well­-suited for spaces where strong sound absorption and sound blocking are needed for all­around acoustical performance.

“Good” ceilings have an NRC of 0.60­0.65 and a CAC 35 or higher. They are intended for spaces where less sound absorption is required but sound blocking is needed to maintain privacy between adjacent areas.

Enhance Acoustic Environment
Armstrong ceiling panels with Total Acoustics performance can enhance the acoustic environment of a myriad of applications. In offices, they can help lower stress, increase worker effectiveness, and boost employee satisfaction. In schools, they can help meet ANSI standards, contribute to LEED points, and create a better place to teach and learn. And in healthcare facilities, they can help reduce noise to improve HCAHPS survey results, address HIPAA requirements, and aid in patient recuperation.