Marist College computer room. Centre of room empty, NCS Pinnacle ceiling tiles in grid. Desks around the perimeter of the room, each with keyboard and mouse.

 

When is High Acoustic Absorption too High?

Optimising sound absorption matters in every space, but it becomes especially critical in classrooms and learning environments. While high acoustic absorption in ceilings plays an essential role, you need to strike the right balance to avoid overcorrecting the acoustics.

Measuring Acoustics

Manufacturers test ceiling tiles for acoustic performance using NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) and CAC (Ceiling Attenuation Class) values. These figures help specifiers understand how much sound a tile absorbs or blocks. [Read more about NRC and CAC measurements here.]

Reverberation and Absorption

Every space naturally produces a certain level of reverberation from ambient noise. Acoustic engineers use specialised equipment to calculate these reverberation levels. However, even without measuring tools, people can tell when a room feels too echoey—or too dead.

To reduce reverberation, you can install acoustic ceilings, wall panels, and even carpet. These surfaces absorb sound and prevent it from bouncing around the room excessively.

The key to good acoustic design lies in finding the right balance between reverberation and absorption. If you absorb too much sound, the room can feel unnaturally still. If you absorb too little, noise builds up and becomes distracting.

How much is too much?

Overdoing acoustic absorption—especially in small spaces—can make a room feel overly dampened. Most people aren’t used to spaces with zero reverberation. In classrooms, this can become a real problem. If a ceiling absorbs too much sound, speech clarity suffers. Students may struggle to hear their teacher clearly, which can reduce engagement and learning outcomes.

At National Ceiling Systems, we’ve found that Pinnacle strikes the perfect balance. It features a high NRC of 0.7 and a CAC of 40, making it ideal for classrooms and learning spaces. It absorbs enough sound to improve focus but allows just enough reverberation for natural speech and interaction.

Final Thoughts

When designing spaces that require high acoustic control, don’t aim for maximum absorption—aim for the right mix. To optimise acoustics in learning environments, we recommend the Pinnacle ceiling tile. It delivers clarity, comfort, and balance for better learning outcomes.