Residential Noise Assessment and Control                                    Go directly to information and order forms

The perception of noise is subjective and problems can be difficult to resolve. The principle difference between a pleasant sound and an annoying noise is one of perception. Typically, when we lose control of the sounds in our environment, we identify the offending sounds as noise.

Our residences shield us from the noisy outside world. Sound is blocked by the walls, roof, doors, and windows. Generally, the more massive and thick these structural barriers are relative to the wavelength of sound, the more effective they are at blocking sound. However, low-frequency sounds, such as bass notes in music or even portions of speech spectra, have longer wavelengths. It can be particularly difficult to prevent these sounds from entering a dwelling. Additionally, modern buildings utilize lighter construction, aggravating the problem of low-frequency sound and the control of noise. The lighter construction materials and techniques also allow noise-generating vibration to propagate more easily.

Residential noise may be caused by a large number of different sources. Noises that may be familiar to the single- or multi-family residents are amplified music, televisions, household appliances, conversation, footfalls, exercise machines, and even barking dogs. Transportation noise such as cars and trucks, aircraft, and trains may also be annoying. Mechanical equipment typical in commercial businesses and multi-unit residences such as air conditioning units, fans and blowers, pumps and elevators are additional sources of noise.

In cases where noise regulations and code compliance is in question, it may be necessary to determine whether the noise level is within allowable limits. If noise does exceed the limit, a consultant’s report may be beneficial in presenting a case to the noise producer or the building management to resolve the problem. Should this not be sufficient to resolve a compliance issue, testimony by expert witness in court may be a final resort.

The QRDc Approach to Resolving Noise Problems                                               information and order forms

Here at QRDc, our team of experts can assist residents at all levels in resolving noise issues. In order to make the consulting process more timely and economical to residential users, we have developed a problem solving approach unique to the industry. The conventional approach to solving noise problems requires that an acoustical consultant be intimately involved in all aspects of the solution process. This means that an initial assessment, complete with an on-site visit, is necessary.

The QRDc Noise Monitoring Kit                                                                                   information and order forms

QRDc has developed a data acquisition technique that allows for a low-cost screening procedure. By guiding our customers through an initial data acquisition procedure, we can eliminate unnecessary travel costs and reduce the initial assessment cost. By placing a QRDc data collector in your residence, we can record the offending noise and make a preliminary assessment as to whether a visit from a QRDc acoustician or technician is required. This low-cost initial assessment offers the customer:

• Overall Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) (A-weighted, C-weighted, & unweighted)
• 1/3-octave Sound Pressure Levels
• Estimate of Equivalent Continuous Sound Level (L_eq)
• Estimate of Average Pressure Level (L_avg)
• Estimate of n-Percent Exceeded Level (L_n; i.e. L₁₀ L₅₀, L₉₀)
• Narrow-band spectral information

Once the data has been collected analysis may then be helpful in:

• Identifying and locating the noise source(s)
• Characterizing the noise in terms of troublesome frequencies
• Determining noise propagation path(s)
• Identifying a need for further investigation
• Making a preliminary assessment as to whether code violations have occurred

After the analysis has been completed, QRDc personnel can:

• Issue a report to document the problem and highlight recommended actions
• Make a site visit for detailed data collection and analysis
• Offer recommendations in terms of acoustic treatments, structural modifications, and machine operating procedures
• Recommend a contractor or work with your contractor to implement solutions
• Provide expert testimony on your behalf

Please utilize our on-line information and order forms to request a Noise Monitoring Kit and start down the path to a quieter environment.