By We all have severally got stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, whether you’re traveling to an event, going to work, visiting a loved one, or even going for a vacation. And while you’re sitting in traffic, you may have noticed several types of noise abatement solutions resembling massive walls, particularly on the roadway.
These solutions reduce noise. That is because noise can significantly affect our ability to hear, depending on its level. Noise can also have adverse effects on mental health and overall well-being. Some of its impacts include elevated blood pressure, depression, stomach ulcers, and psychological effects such as communication challenges, fear, stress, fatigue, make people aggressive, curb sleep time, prevent creative occupations, and reduce resting time.
Highway sound barriers as a solution
Also known as highway noise barriers, highway sound barriers are used for sound insulation between the noise-affected zone and the noise source. And panels are placed between them. They inhibit the spread of traffic noise along lines, including bridges and roads.
Additionally, they prevent the spread of noise around machines, including compressors, generators, and related machines. The sound hits the screen then gets absorbed. That also improves the level of noise on the noise source side.
Some of the benefits of highway sound barriers include:
- They keep unconstructive noise from affecting the environment
- They trap excessive noise
- They are aesthetically beautiful since they can get covered with glass
- They are durable and can get used for many years
- Better rest
- Reduced headaches
- Improved productivity
- They do not rot, deteriorate or rot even in extreme temperatures
- Work well in areas with weight restrictions
- Ease of installation
- No reflected sound waves
- Captures low and high-frequency waves
- Variety of wall colors and design patterns
- Protect you from reverberations crossing between barriers, making it possible to use both sides of the highway
- Storm durability
- Does not require too much human labor
Some of the elements that can get applied as reduction techniques include; using noise barriers, greening, and afforestation, exhaust noise control, noise-free public transport, speed control in vehicles, standardization of building materials, prevent unnecessary honking, raising awareness to drivers and the general public and road construction material to reduce noise.
How highway noise barriers work
What most people do not know is that sound walls and highway noise barriers are the subject of many states, federal, and local studies.
Traditionally, these barriers get made using concrete, wood, brick, or metal to minimize the impact of noise generated on highways.
Highway sound barriers walls help to keep offensive sounds from making their way into business districts and neighborhoods.
The truth is, they work better than concrete sound barriers and reduce the stressful impacts of loud noises on the surroundings and provide a conducive space for everyone. Sound barriers kill sound waves, and since there is no noise to reflect into residential areas.
Final thoughts
The perks of highway noise barriers cannot be understated. And controlling outdoor noise is crucial. Residential and commercial businesses located close to heavy traffic areas can now function well with fewer distractions.
