Acoustic Glass Performance Fundamentals
An Introduction to Glass Specifications and Acoustic Performance Metrics
Course Description
This introductory technical CPD course provides architects and building design professionals with foundational knowledge of acoustic glass specifications and performance metrics.
You'll learn to interpret industry-standard glazing formulas, understand the relationship between glass build-up and acoustic performance, and recognize the key parameters that influence sound insulation. This course demystifies acoustic terminology (Rw, C, Ctr) and clarifies which glass parameters genuinely impact performance.
Presented by Eugene Korch (façade engineer) and Marc Fuzellier (acoustic consultant from Atelier Crescendo), the course combines glass specification fundamentals with acoustic principles, providing the vocabulary and framework you'll need when working with specialist consultants or reviewing manufacturer specifications.
Using simplified diagrams and conceptual explanations, this course focuses on building foundational understanding rather than detailed acoustic engineering. It's designed as an introduction for design professionals who need to engage confidently with acoustic glass topics.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
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Interpret glazing unit formulas including glass types, thicknesses, spacers, and gas fills
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Differentiate between annealed, toughened, and heat-strengthened glass
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Recognize different interlayer types and their roles in performance
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Identify sound frequencies and understand their real-world sources
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Understand Rw, Rw + C, and Rw + Ctr values and their applications
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Recognize which glass parameters affect acoustic performance
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Understand the fundamentals needed to engage effectively with acoustic consultants and manufacturers
What's Covered
Reading Glazing Unit Specifications
Interpreting industry-standard glazing formulas.
Glass types: Annealed, toughened, heat-strengthened – strength and breakage patterns.
Nickel sulphide risk: Heat soak testing.
Laminated glass construction: External pane requirements.
Understanding interlayer types: And thicknesses.
Common glass thicknesses: And spacer dimensions.
Spacer types and gas fills: Argon, krypton vs. air.
Sound Fundamentals
Understanding decibels (dB) and Hertz (Hz).
Low, mid, and high frequency ranges.
Real-world noise sources: And their frequency characteristics.
Acoustic Performance Metrics
Rw (weighted sound reduction index): Explained.
Spectrum adaptation terms: C and Ctr.
Understanding when Rw + C and Rw + Ctr are relevant.
Reading manufacturer acoustic datasheets.
Parameters Affecting Acoustic Performance
Mass principle: Glass thickness and weight.
Asymmetry: Different pane thicknesses and cavity widths.
Cavity tuning and resonance control.
Understanding laminated interlayers: And their acoustic role.
Common misconceptions: Coatings and thermal treatments.
Triple glazing: And acoustic performance.
Course Schedule
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Course Overview
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Course Objectives
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How to Navigate the Learning Materials
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Introduction
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Interactive 3D detail
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Interactive 3D detail
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Webinar
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Post-Lecture Reading List
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Knowledge Check
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Certificate: Download & Share
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About this course
- £100.00
- Practice test questions
- CPD Certificate: 2 hrs
- Interactive 3D models
Your Instructors
Acoustic Consultant, Director at Atelier Crescendo Marc Fuzellier
Marc founded Atelier Crescendo (https://ateliercrescendo.ac/) in 2020 after gaining experience in reputable independent and multi-disciplinary consultancies (including WSP), in a variety of fields such as architectural acoustics, environmental noise, building services noise and vibration.
Over his career, Marc has worked on a broad range of projects from small scale developments to large scale international projects. He is a full member of the Institute of Acoustics, member of the Audio Engineering Society, and member of the Société Française d'Acoustique.
Programme Director, IAST Eugene Korch
Eugene is a façade engineer and educator with extensive experience in building envelope design and technical specification. Through the Institute for Architectural Science and Technology (IAST) and Facade Intelligence, he delivers CPD training to architects and construction professionals across the UK. His teaching approach emphasizes practical application and accessibility, making complex technical subjects understandable for design professionals.
Who Should Enrol
This course is designed for:
Architects: Needing foundational knowledge of acoustic glass terminology.
Architectural Technologists: Working with facade specifications.
Envelope Designers: Seeking to understand acoustic glass fundamentals.
Façade Specialist Contractors: Requiring technical knowledge of glass specifications.
Junior Façade Engineers: Building foundational knowledge.
Building Envelope Consultants: Working with acoustic specifications.
Project Managers: Overseeing projects with acoustic requirements.
Cost Consultants: Understanding acoustic glass specifications.
Course Details
Format: Self-paced online course with video lectures
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
CPD Points: 1 hour structured CPD / 1 Learning Unit
Access: 12 months from enrollment
Certificate: CPD certificate issued upon completion
Prerequisites: None – introductory level
Materials: Downloadable resources and reference guides included
What Makes This Course Different
Introductory focus: Building foundational knowledge, not advanced engineering.
Practical approach: No complex calculations – emphasis on understanding concepts.
Simplified diagrams: Clear visuals designed for accessibility.
Myth-busting: Clarifying which parameters affect performance and which don't.
Expert presenters: Combined expertise from façade engineering and acoustic consulting.
