Email template - stack effect/ cracking and noise

Email template - stack effect/ cracking and noise

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I can confirm that the noise is caused by stack effect, a phenomenon that is experienced in high rise buildings where there is a difference in air pressure inside the building vs outside. It can also be exacerbated when residents have their windows open.There is a section in the homeowner manual on page 34 advising that residents might experience this.

All this information is in the manual, which is issued to each client, available on My SQP and available via channel 800 on the TV system.

Building Sway/Movement

The building as you know is designed to move 400 – 500mm at the top during windy conditions. Customers may notice any hanging lights swaying or bathwater moving in the tub during these conditions – all of which is completely normal. 

Creaking Noises

As a result of the above the concrete frame can move in many ways as outlined in the diagram below (taken from the homeowner manual), this can cause movement within the building fabric and is the source of the creaking so many customers have mentioned.

Stack Effect

Is the difference in pressure between outside the building and inside, and is the reason why we have a revolving door and in internal lobby door – you will note the stack effect when doors are sucked open or closed. You may hear wind noises as you walk along the corridors, particularly if a plot has window open inside – you will even feel the flow of air at the bottom of the door. Stack effect is not linked to building movement but can create its own noises with air flowing through tight gaps below doors. We recommend customers do not leave windows and doors open when they are not in the apartment as conditions can change, and blinds/curtains could potentially be sucked out of an open window.