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Photograph of  grass growing indoors in this unusual homeBuilding Noise & Sound Complaints

Home Page & Index to Articles

  • POST a QUESTION or COMMENT about diagnosing the source and finding the cure for noises or sounds in or around buildings and their systems

This page provides our index to detailed procedures for building noise troubleshooting: causes & cures.

Here we provide an extensive catalog of the sources of annoying sounds or noise complaints at or around buildings.

We provide a complete index to sources of sounds helps diagnose, & cure noise problems in or at buildings.

These articles discuss building noise control: how to inspect, diagnose & cure noise or sound problems in homes or commercial buildings. Information is provided about auditory (hearing), visual, historic, medical, or other clues of building condition that explain various sounds heard in buildings.

We also discuss methods of sound or noise control in buildings during construction or as a building retrofit.

Page top photo: an attic pull-down stair that doesn't close fully not only increases your building's heating cost, it may permit attic and rooftop noises to sound rather loud in the occupied space below.

InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website.

- Daniel Friedman, Publisher/Editor/Author - See WHO ARE WE?

How to Identify & Cure Noises & Sounds in Building Interiors

Table of typical sound levels in decibels dB (C) J Wiley & Sons Best Practices Steven BlissThis page lists key articles useful in finding the source of annoying building noises or sounds, understanding when noises indicate problems in the building or its mechanical system, and controlling or eliminating building noise.

- Author, D. Friedman, has provided noise source location, diagnosis & cure investigation & services in U.S., Spain, Mexico, New Zealand and other locations since 1985.

Also use the page top (blue area) search box to search InspectApedia by noise type, or use Ctrl-F to search within this article for specific noise or sound types such as buzz, creak, hiss, drip, etc.

Some building noises are just an annoyance - we'll focus on sound control, sound isolation, and sound insulation methods. But other building sounds or noises may be a sign of trouble, failing equipment, insect attack, rodent infestation, or other more dangerous conditions.

Our page top photo showed a severe air bypass leak at an attic pull-down stair. Occupants could at times hear air rushing through this opening.

This article explains how to locate the source of, identify and correct various building sounds and noises indoors or on occasion, noises from outside that penetrate indoors at annoying levels.

While we touch on environmental noise coming from outside of buildings (aircraft noise, highway noise, noisy neighbors) the focus of this article series is on identifying and curing unwanted indoor noise sources in buildings - noise control.

To find what you need quickly, if you don't want to scroll through this index you are welcome to use the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX to search InspectApedia for specific articles and information.

See our ARTICLE INDEX to BUILDING NOISE DIAGNOSIS for a complete list of building & building system noise diagnosis and cure articles including detailed articles on specific sound types, names, sources, causes, cures.

How are Noises Transmitted in Buildings?

Regardless of their source, noises are transmitted in buildings by two methods.

Airborne Sound:

Sound waves traveling through air move between building areas - such as through open windows, doors, or stairwells.

Mechanically transmitted sound: 

When sounds move through solid building components such as floors, ceilings, walls, framing, carrying sound from one area to another the sound transmission is referred to more technically as impact insulation class transmission or IIC sound transmission.

In many cases the source of an annoying building sound may be obvious and we can move immediately to strategies for reducing that source to an acceptable noise level. But we also receive queries from people who have difficulty tracing a sound to its source, or who are unsure if a sound that they hear at a known source (say a humming sound at an electrical component) is normal or means trouble.

In our collection of sources of building sounds and noises, below, we describe common noises that may come from various sources and we link to more detailed diagnostic and repair advice for these problems.

Separately at SOUND CONTROL in BUILDINGS

we provide a series of detailed articles on noise or sound transmission control - that is, methods for reducing unwanted building noise levels through building design, insulation, sound isolation, and noise barriers.

Find the Source of Building Noises by Keeping a Sound or Noise Event Log

To track a mystery-noise or sound to its source in a building, try keeping a noise log, noting the conditions, times, events, and information we list in our printable sound event log worksheet:

We provide a sound event log in three formats:

Help Finding the Source, Estimating the Level, & Controlling Noise at Buildings

Alphabetical List of Building Noises by Sound Source or Sound Type

Beginning below, we provide an alphabetically-ordered catalog of building noises and sounds, with suggestions for tracking down these disturbances.

Air Conditioning or Heat Pump System Noises

Mill International B.V. electric heater - fan motor failure (C) Daniel Friedman at InspectApedia.com

Miscellaneous sources of screaming noises in and around buildings include equipment with small moving parts such as the fan in the Mill International B.V. brand electric heater shown above.

Purchased at Amazon in 2020, this heater includes both convection heat and a small fan to increase heater output. In 2021, the fan motor failed in the middle of the night, making a horrible screaming screeching noise.

Mill International B.V. electric heater - fan motor failure (C) Daniel Friedman at InspectApedia.com

While these heaters are no longer sold in the U.S., the company has said it stands behind its warranty and that the heater's purchase price will be refunded.

House mouse Mus musculus, US CDC Larry Masters cited & discussed at InspectApedia.com

Air Leaks: How to Track Down Air Bypass Leak or Air Leak Noises in buildings

This topic has been moved to a new article found

at AIR LEAK NOISES in BUILDINGS

Animal noise and animal-caused noises in buildings, diagnosis & cure

Raccoon outdoors on a downspout (C) Daniel Friedman

This article topic has been moved to a new article found

at ANIMAL NOISES in BUILDINGS

Photo above: Isn't that raccoon cute? Not exactly. Especially if you trap a wild animal inside your building you're not only scaring it, your're risking a dangerous animal bite.

Watch out: for bites, rabies, and for raccoons who like to find a way into the attic where they bat around the Christmas tree ornaments and leave little sooty footprints all over everything

Appliance Noises in buildings, Sources of

This article topic has been moved to a new article found

at APPLIANCE NOISE DIAGNOSIS

Appliance noises in buildings are a bit easier to track down.

If you are uncertain just which appliance is a noise source, or if it is a noise source, just try turning off individual appliances to check for cessation of noise. Appliance noises cover a wide range, from humming refrigerator compressors to rattling loose metal parts to all sorts of amazing sounds heard at washing machines and dishwashers.

Chimney noises in or on buildings - Danger Signs?

Chimney damage (C) Daniel Friedman

This article topic has been moved to a new article found

at CHIMNEY NOISE DIAGNOSIS

Watch out: A chimney fire sounds like a roaring freight train.

If you suspect a chimney fire and can do so safely, shut down your wood stove (close all air intakes) or close any chimney dampers as well, immediately exit the building, and call the fire department from outdoors.

Dripping Water Sounds in buildings, How to Track Down

This noise diagnosis and repair topic is now found

at DRIPPING WATER SOUND SOURCES

Electrical Equipment or Electrical System Noises in buildings: diagnosis & cure

Please see details we have moved

to ELECTRICAL SYSTEM NOISES

Watch out: Electrical System Noises can be signs of dangerous conditions: buzzing circuit breakers or fixtures may indicate that an electrical circuit is short circuiting or that a circuit breaker is not tripping when it should.

Fans and Fan Noises in buildings & How to Control Fan Noises

This topic has moved

to FAN NOISES in BUILDINGS

Also see FAN NOISES, HVAC

Flooring and Floor Noises in buildings

Antique wood floor (C) Daniel Friedman

This information was moved to

FLOORING NOISES in BUILDINGS

Also see FLOOR TYPES & DEFECTS - inspection, diagnosis, repair, and installation tips for resilient flooring, vinyl and asphalt floor tiles, wood flooring, tile floors, carpeting in buildings.

Ghost Noises or Odors in & Around Buildings

Among of our building inspection & diagnosis clients have been a few folks who were quite sure that noises and even some visions in buildings were due to the presence of spirits or ghosts.

In most cases sounds and odors were tracked to a physical source and speaking more accurately, if a physiological, psychological, or neurological cause of noise perception is ruled out, all other building noises can ultimately be tracked to a physical source inside or outside of the building.

Readers with suggestions about diagnosing unresolved odors -

See ODORS GASES SMELLS, DIAGNOSIS & CURE

or unexplained noises in buildings -

See NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSIS & CURE

are invited to comment using the comment box found at the bottom of each InspectApedia article.

Hardware Noises in Buildings: hinges, locks, bolts, etc. can be sources of surprising building noises

Toilet paper holder squeaking (C) Daniel Friedman

We have traced creaking, chirping, and creaking noises to moving hardware, typically metal or wood or metal and wood parts moving across one another.

More often we find these building noise sources by tracking the sound to a point of origin, seeing something moving, and then relating the sound to the cause of movement. A squeak or creak may be traced to use of a particular building door such as a room passage door or a cabinet door.

Often a squeak or creak that seems to occur in regular intervals that diminish in volume is traced to a hinged fixture that moves when disturbed. Some examples include:

Health, Neurological, and Psychologically-Related Noise Complaints in buildings

Sleep Mate white noise generator (C) Daniel Friedman

Photo above: a whirring windy sound is produced deliberately by this white noise machine we observed in a physician's office.

An introduction to this topic is now found

at HEALTH-RELATED NOISE PERCEPTION

Details about this topic are found

at HEALTH RELATED NOISE EFFECTS. Health related noise and apparent noise sources can involve common aging or hearing disorders, dementia, or other serious medical conditions.

Hearing Disabilities and Building Noises

Hearing Disabilities and the ability to identify and track the source of noises in buildings can be difficult for the hearing impaired.

Details are

at HEARING DISORDER NOISE ISSUES

Heating System Noises & Building Temperature-Change Noises

A quick summary of common sources of heating noise problems is

at HEATING SYSTEM NOISES in BUILDINGS

Or see our detailed heating noise diagnosis and repair article series on heating system noises found

at HEATING SYSTEM NOISE DIAGNOSIS

Hissing Noises in buildings

This data was moved to HISSING SOUNDS in BUILDINGS

Humming Sounds at buildings

Please see HUMMING NOISES in BUILDINGS

Howling Deck Noises: check wind, structure, surface textures

A summary of common sources of howling noises in buildings with links to howling noise diagnostic articles

see HOWLING NOISES in BUILDINGS

(Nov 2, 2014) Carolyn said:

We just had our deck rebuilt, changing the warped wood for grooved composite boards held together by hidden Trex fasteners.

The new deck makes a howling sound when the wind blows. We ruled out the deck balusters and railing, so we know it is something to do with the decking. Our builder is as stumped as are we. Any ideas on how to get to the root of the problem and fix it?

Reply:

Carolyn, if I could send you a prize for "best question" I'd do so.

Before posing a solution lets gain confidence in the noise cause.
I suspect the howling deck is a feature of one of the following, combined of course, with wind direction and site or terrain shape and features.

. Size / spacing of decking boards or gaps

. Framing orientation vs wind direction

. Wind over textured surface

. Wind through guardrails or balusters

. Wind redirection caused by decking,

. Something else we've not thought of

You could try a directional mike, even a mechanic's stethoscope but let's try something else first.

Try stapling house wrap first underneath the entire deck floor, from below, on the bottom of the joists. Don't worry, it won't be permanent.

For a complete discussion of howling noises traced to building decks including a completion of discussion of Carolyn's question above,

see HOWLING DECK NOISE- surface textures of decking, possibly framing, deck gaps, wind direction, other factors

Insect Noise and Insect-caused Noises in buildings: buzz, chirp, hum

Carpenter Bee closeup photo (C) Daniel Friedman

Insect noise and insect-caused noises in buildings include the following

Plumbing System Noises in buildings

Our article PLUMBING SYSTEM NOISE SOURCES lists the sources of all types of plumbing noises and traces them to their source.

For the broad topic of controlling plumbing noises in buildings

see SOUND CONTROL for PLUMBING

Roof Noise Transmission & Structural Noises in buildings: Sources, Causes, Remedies

Metal roof, Key West FL (C) Daniel FriedmanDetails about roof noise and sound transmission cause and remedy are

at
 ROOF NOISE TRANSMISSION - topic home. Excerpts are below.

Certain building configurations, such as occupied attics or under-roof areas with cathedral ceilings, and metal roofed buildings may transmit noises to the building interior through the roof sheathing and building framing.

Where roof-transmitted sound reduction is most sought is in buildings located close to high noise areas such as under the flight path to airports.

Our photo of metal roofed homes (above) shows two older metal-roofed houses in Key West, Florida.

Types of Roof Noises & Sounds

Roof noises may be described as those attributed to an obvious source: the patter or even the roar of falling rain or hail, popping and cracking noises (perhaps due to thermal expansion and contraction of roof coverings, metal roofing, or roof structure), and transmitted noises from other external sources such as low-flying aircraft or nearby trains or auto & truck traffic from a nearby highway.

Types of Roof Noise Sources

Accurate diagnosis of the source of roof noise transmission is important in deciding what remedy may work best.

For example, check during rainfall to accurately determine the loudest sound source - you might find that more noise is transmitted to the building interior through skylights than through the roof surface itself.

To the human ear, cutting noise levels in half, a reduction of over 20 decibels is quite significant. - Colbond [2]

We describe

at METAL ROOF EXPOSED FASTENER FLASHING

One frequently cited disadvantage of metal roofing is that it generates a noticeable noise when struck by rain, hail, or even dropping acorns. If installed directly to purlins with no roof sheathing, the noise might be heard in the building interior.

However, when installed over a solid substrate, with normal levels of insulation, the noise should not be noticeably different than with other roofing types.

See details about roof noise source detection and noise control at

Sound Transmission Class - STC & OITC: Sound Transmission Loss Properties for Building Walls & Roofs

Definition of STC or Sound Transmission Class

STC or sound transmission class is defined as the level of reduction of sound transmission from outside noise sources to the building interior.

Higher STC numbers mean higher resistance to sound transmission to the building interior, or as acousticians would describe it, higher STC means greater sound transmission loss between outdoors and the building interior. Typical STC values for metal buildings are STC=20 to STC=55.

OITC or Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class describes the sound transmission loss properties of building exterior components like windows and walls against noise from traffic, trains, or low flying aircraft.

- General Steel Corporation [3]

Horn sound comes from roof / vent during wind storms

I had an Owens Corning roof installed with Tru Definition shingles. They installed a Ridge Vent with O'hagin vents and there are the T Top Vents.

During a wind storm I hear a sound coming from the front of the house that sounds like a horn sound. It goes on and off for the entirety of the wind storm. Had the roofer here and he can't pinpoint what is making the horn sound or how to fix it. Ideas? - (Jan 13, 2015) Bonnie

Reply:

Bonnie

I'd start by temporarily blocking off the ridge vent by simply taping some plastic over it.

Also see NOISE TRANSMISSION in ROOFS

Siding Noises, Possible Causes, Effects, Cures for Vinyl Siding

This material moved to a new article

at SIDING NOISES & SOUNDS

Stair and Step Noises in buildings

Stair noises in buildings include noisy stair treads that may creak or snap when stepped-on. See

STAIRWAYS: Stair, Railing, Landing Safety Inspections, stair codes, stair design, stair hazards, stair inspection checklist

Also see FLOORING & FLOOR NOISES

and see POPPING SNAPPING NOISE DIAGNOSIS

Wall Noise Transmission Articles

Noise transmitted through walls (or ceilings) from mechanical rooms (boilers, furnaces) or utility rooms (WASHING MACHINE NOISE CAUSE & CURE, dryer) can be reduced by using good sound isolation construction and insulating materials.

See SOUND CONTROL in BUILDINGS for a series of articles on sound control in buildings.

Causes of Water heater noises or sounds in buildings

Water heater noise (C) Daniel Friedman

WATER HEATER NOISES in buildings include

Crackling or popping sounds as the water heater is warming up, especially if the water supply is high in mineral content, leading to mineral deposits on the bottom of the water heater or on electric water heating elements.

Photo: an AO Smith gas fired water heater that was making a rumbling popping noise.

Notice that it's installed next to an air handler that provides heating and cooling to this building - another potential noise source.

Water heater noises & sounds:

see WATER HEATER NOISE DIAGNOSIS, CURE for details, diagnosis, and cure of water heater sounds.

Watch out: water heater noises can indicate a high level of water heater scaling that increases water heating cost, reduces the quantity of hot water available, and can reduce water heater life.

Water heater noises can also indicate that the heater has been set to a too-high temperature and may be unsafe, risking scalding or other hazards.

See these noise-related water heater articles:

Wind-caused noises in or at buildings

Wind Noise and wind-caused noises in buildings include a surprising number of mechanisms and sounds now discussed

at WIND NOISES at BUILDINGS

Track Down Window & Door Related Noises in buildings

While sound-reducing or low-sound transmission windows using noise-reducing laminated glass and similar noise-reducing exterior or interior building doors are available, remember that as soon as you open a window for ventilation, the sound isolation benefit at that location is lost.

Sound-reducing doors should be of solid materials, have no glass windows or glazing, and should be sealed around the door perimeter with sound insulating foam or similar gaskets.

...




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Reader Comments, Questions & Answers About The Article Above

Below you will find questions and answers previously posted on this page at its page bottom reader comment box.

Reader Q&A - also see RECOMMENDED ARTICLES & FAQs

On 2023-10-22 by Day canoeist - noises carry farther when we're canoeing

Do you think noises carry farther when we're canoeing and when we are in the city?

Reply by InspectApedia Publisher - sounds carry farther over water

@Day canoeist,

In general sounds carry farther over water particularly quiet water and are more lost in background noise of a city.

On 2023-08-21 by Anonymous - strange noise every few minutes

I am in an apartment building and here this strange noise every few minutes mostly in the evenings. Sounds like it is coming from above or next to the apt. Almost like something plumbing or mechanical. Usually two of these segments and then two more in ten minutes.

On 2023-08-21 by InspectApedia Publisher - Keeping a noise log can help identify noise source

@Anonymous,

Keeping a noise log as described above on this page at SOUND EVENT LOG might help you identify just what equipment is running at the intervals that makes that noise.


On 2023-07-12 by Kathy - humming noise in my house

In December, I began to get a humming noise in my house. It was traced to a faulty Xcel transformer next to my property. Xcel replaced the transformer and the humming got better.

But it has returned and has gotten worse. However, the transformed is quiet. I have contacted Xcel, but since the transformer is working correctly, they do not believe it is related to their equipment.

What else could be causing it? I have tried to drown it out with fans and a white noise machine, but nothing helps. It keeps me awake at night. Who could help me find the source of this problem?

Any help is appreciated. E-mail: cathygregorich@comcast.net

Reply by InspectApedia Publisher - what is causing the humming noise I hear

@Kathy,

Sure, glad to help.

Above at this page where we list tracking different types of noises to their source we have a link to

HUMMING NOISES

That's a good place to start. Step through that checklist and let me know what you find.


On 2023-02-27 by Bernice - strange rumbling noises at my condo & walls shake

For the past few months, residents living in this cracking, crumbling, neglected, low rise condominium building have been hearing strange rumbling noises that sometimes shake and shudder the walls and floors of many units on every floor.

At first we thought someone had built a skateboard ramp in their rental unit because the rumblings sounded very much like somebody was occasionally skating ramp from one side to the other because the sounds and vibrations would always come in patterns of two,, only a few times a day.

When the frequency of the sets increased to every few hours and most every long term tenant in building began questioning each other trying to determine where the sounds were coming from,

some suggested the sounds could be the result of tenants opening and closing their lanai’s sliding glass doors, but then the sounds increased to several times hour every hour around the clock

to the point it completely unimaginable that anybody would do such a thing as constantly open and shut their doors that frequently and our investigations of where could this rumbling be coming from

only proved that tenants on every floor from one end of the building to the other have been baffled and even quite worried by these sounds and other thunking and pipe clanging sounds that accompany what feels like the floors are moving beneath our feet.

There are so many warning signs that this old building is about to collapse, I fear for my children’s and grandchildren’s lives and actively searching for another home to rent.

So much debris has fallen from exterior walls and from beneath the bottom floor lanais that there’s caution tape and cones warning residents to avoid at least five areas around the building and surrounding property.

And there’s been two fires in a span of less than one year, as well as life threatening fire hazards from ancient faulty electrical wiring and massive cockroach infestations in nearly every unit,

as well as constant plumbing breaks and mysterious water puddles coming up through the floors and condensation bubbling the paint on the walls and ceilings, oh, and there’s rats and termites, too.

What do you think may be causing those sounds ? And do you have any suggestions about what authorities I should alert about these problems before I move?

I can’t in good conscience just leave the building knowing how many lives could be in danger if this should-be-condemned building crushes down on top of them.

On 2023-02-27 by InspectApedia Editor - imminent risk of catastrophic building collapse requires immediate action

@Bernice,

Watch out: Considering the risk of injury and loss of life should your building collapse, and given no other information but what you've cited, in my opinion you should call 911 - emergency services, and report that building noises and history raise enough worry about a possible catastrophic building collapse that an expert evaluation is needed immediately.

You would then notify your building management and other occupants that you've raised this concern, also immediately.

Most likely, people should get OUT of the building immediately and move to a safe distance until experts have determined its safety. Rather than risk loss of life we have no choice but to err on the side of caution.

Please give us the location of the building and let us know what is the response to your 911 call. But don't waste more time on the internet. Call 911. Take action. Now.

 

On 2022-12-12 by Suzann - rhythmic perfectly timed snoring sounds in my den

I hear rhythmic perfectly timed snoring sounds in my den near exterior wall. You can’t hear it outside.

On 2022-12-12 by InspectApedia (Editor) - "I hear rhythmic perfectly timed snoring sounds in my den"

@Suzann,

Above on this page we suggest

Find the Source of Building Noises by Keeping a Sound or Noise Event Log

To track a mystery noise or sound to its source in a building, try keeping a noise log, noting the conditions, times, events, and information we list in our printable sound event log worksheet:

We provide a sound event log in three formats:

SOUND EVENT LOG a web article including explanation of what information should be recorded to help track down the source of building sounds & noises
BUILDING NOISE LOG a simplified printable html file
NOISE LOG, PRINTER-FRIENDLY- [PDF] RECOMMENDED - to assist in noise localization in buildings.


SOUND EVENT LOG - provides more detail

On 2022-12-13 by Suzann

@InspectApedia (Editor), I have! It’s crazy. 4:30am until midnight I’ve heard it. Perfectly spaced in time. No derivation.

On 2022-12-13 by (mod) - collect more details than just time

To make good use of a noise log to track down the source of that snoring sound, you need more than a time log. Take note of the other conditions suggested in our checklist / noise log, such as what equipment is operating, weather conditions, timers, traffic, etc.

Recently we tracked down a rather regular and loud clanking sound at a New York hotel to cars entering a parking garage in a rather steady stream. Each car drove over the same steel plate that was loosely set into the garage entrance. It took some looking around outside the hotel to find the noise source.

On 2022-12-21 by Nik - rhythmic perfectly timed snoring

@Suzann, I have the same thing - you described it perfectly. It's in between a half bath and a full bath, right in between two toilets, and it sounds like it's at the top. of my bathroom or at ear level. It's so weird - I originally thought it was a dog sleeping on the floor above me snoring, but now it sounds like something in the wall. I will check timing. I live in an old prewar building in UWS.

On 2022-12-21 by InspectApedia (Editor)

@Nik,

Snoring noises can certainly come from a plumbing fixture drain or even supply piping (some types of water hammer or water velocity noise in piping). Keeping a careful note using the Sound Log that we recommend can help track down the sound, as can the simple test of slightly closing the main water valve to reduce the water flow rate.

Don't forget to include hot water heating piping and radiators/baseboards in such diagnosis.

 

On 2022-12-07 by Anonymous - loud fan at neighboring commercial building

I don't know where to go with this. I have a neighbor that has a industrial building ... . Some type of noise; I'm guessing a large cooler fan is LOUD and seems to never stop.

Where can I find out what my rights are as a neighbor, how long this noise can be going on and on, who can give me information.

Does the noise supposed to exceed a certain amount of decibles if so how many and for how long. Please point me in the direction I need to be. Please.

On 2022-12-07 by InspectApedia (Editor) - How to register a noise complaint

@Anonymous,

How to register a noise complaint:

Noise complaints, a common concern, might be taken to your local building department; you need to identify your country and city of location; some cities have specific noise ordinances and enforcement authorities.

For example in San Francisco, CA, USA, In-Progress noise complaints are handled by the Police Non-Emergency Telephone Number 415-553-0123,
DO NOT CALL THIS NUMBER if you do not live in San Francisco - I just gave this as an example.

For another example, in Paris France, If your noise issue not urgent, like to make a noise complaint in the evening, you should call your nearest police station (commissariat de police).

In a smaller city ask your building or zoning department whom to call.

For larger cities in most countries you can try a simple web-search for "noise complaints in "cityname" "

Watch out: if the noise you hear suggests that there could be a life-safety emergency such as hissing gas, crumbling collapsing structures, or if you smell gas, or fire-smoke, get everyone out of the building and call emergency services from a safe distance.


On 2022-11-30 by Feroza - terrible wind noise at condo

We live in a condo that is designed like a ship. Our unit is like a Arc design. The wind is terrible but acceptable but recently we have started getting noises in the evening and late night from above like a rotating movement object like it is churning very deeply.

Our management has checked everything on the roof and has ruled it out as wind noise. The wind is so severe here and we know the difference between howling and churning.
What could be the cause

On 2022-11-30 by InspectApedia (Editor)

@Feroza,
If the noise occurs only when there is wind, it is certainly wind-related.

See WIND NOISES at BUILDINGS for a list of common sources of such sounds


On 2022-10-19 by A C - huge banging‘s or slamming noises in apartment building

Hi I live in a three-story apartment building on the second level and I live in an end unit. My bedroom has two exterior walls. One interior wall faces into the living room and the other into the bathroom.

In my room only, we hear huge banging‘s or slamming intermittently. I did not hear it for the first six months I lived here And then suddenly between August 16 and 19th I heard it for those four days on and off.

It never is after 9 PM at night but sometimes start as early as 8 AM. I didn’t hear it again until around 29 September or that week and now I’ve been hearing it for the last week and a half almost every single day.

It is terrifying my small 12 year old dog who is hiding in the closet or the bathroom shaking uncontrollably. I thought my upstairs neighbors were doing it but now I have corroborating evidence from other neighbors who were in the third floor apartment at the time the noise occurred and none of them were doing it as were no one in my home.

What can this slamming/banging be that is causing me severe stress and anxiety as well as my dog!?? I am at my wits end. Any and all suggestions are appreciated.

On 2022-10-19 by InspectApedia (Editor) - "we hear huge banging‘s or slamming intermittently"

@A C,

Above on this page you will find lists of sources of banging noises in buildings.

Best bet is to take a look through those and select the ones that could possibly apply to your building and then investigate those possible sources.

Examples include starting or stopping HVAC equipment, duct noises as metal ductwork is expanded or contracted by fans, doors, other mechanical equipment, vehicle traffic.

Let me know what you find or what further questions may arise.

 

On 2022-08-05 by Wallyburger@aol.com - explosion sound near my home theatre

I have a sound that sounds like a low “explosion” near my home theatre. This has been going on for several weeks. It happens at close to the same time every day and only lasts a few seconds.

I have tried turning off all components, disconnecting components and moving them away. I have sat by each speaker and do not hear the sound from them. I can not find the source. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

On 2022-08-05 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)

@Wallyburger,

That certainly sounds like an electrical or wiring connection problem with your home theatre system.

I'm totally baffled, however, if in fact you've turned off components and still hear the sound.

I'd start over again. With power to the equipment OFF I'd check all of the speaker connections.


On 2022-07-23 by Poppy - rhythmic pump sound, usually late at night

Lived here a year and every now and then noticed a rhythmic pump sound, usually late at night, similar to the starting of a washing machine and the inlet of water. Recently this sound is constant and consistent — I’ve timed it as running for just over 6mins with a pause of just over 2mins. 24/7. Sometimes the pumping of water sounds strained and gargled, other times, it’s just like a flow.

I have no idea where’s it’s coming from. I have a very tiny kitchen — side by side are my washing machine, kitchen sink and boiler. I’ve checked all around them and behind the kickboards — It sounds as though it’s beneath the floor between them. I live in a basement and don’t believe there is a cavity under there.

My neighbour mentioned it could be a Saniflo — however, surely they do not run 24/7 and this is newly constant. Would anyone have any idea what this could be?

On 2022-07-24 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)

@Poppy,

If there is Plumbing in a basement apartment it's very often the case but a pump is used to lift the Wastewater up to the building drain. If that's happening and if there is a leak somewhere that is leaking into the pumping chamber, such as a running toilet, that could cause a pump to cycle on and off.

On 2022-07-31 by Poppy

@InspectApedia-911, thanks very much for your reply. So it’s been happening for just over a month but just recently has been shorting out the electrics in the kitchen. I’m wondering if it’s become a hazard? Should this be the job for a plumber to solve or an electrician do you think?

On 2022-07-31 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)

@Poppy,

Certainly any building defect or appliance or equipment malfunction that is causing a short circuit is dangerous, risking shock or fire.

It seems that a simple first step would be to turn off circuits, one by one, to see which circuit stops the noise.

When you find that circuit you'll then follow it (or have your electrician follow it) to see what it's powering.

On 2022-08-03 by Poppy

@InspectApedia-911, Brilliant. Thank you so much for your help! Much appreciated

 

On 2022-06-01 by Wanda - loud long whine or howling noise come from the same side of the house that the HVAC unit outside is on

Doing a whole house renovation. Removed furnace, HVAC and hot water heater. I've got a loud long whine or howling noise come from the same side of the house that the HVAC unit outside is on. The furnace was in the basement on that side also.

What is causing this noise? It comes and goes nothing long lasting just unexpected and kinda spooky. Contractor hasn't finished disconnecting all if the pipes from HVAC unit and possibly furnace. Any thoughts. He hasn't a clue.

On 2022-06-01 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)

@Wanda,

If you've actually removed mechanical equipment and therefore it's not connected to power it seems to me that the noise has got to be coming from something that has been left in place. This article provides a check list of possible noise sources. Please take a look and don't hesitate to follow up with us

 

On 2022-05-25 by Dennis - undulating sound in my house 24/7

There is an undulating sound in my house 24/7. If Circuit breaker is shut off the sound is still there.

Many plumbers have come; when the water main is shut off the annoying sound is still there.

Is their some type engineer that can use an instrument to locate the source?

On 2022-05-25 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)

@Dennis,

Yes often an audio engineer who is familiar with sound source tracing can use a dB meter to help track noises to their source.

But before going that more-costly route, take a look at

SOUND LOG - provides more detail

where you might find other factors such as other equipment on-off times that can help point to a source of noise.


On 2022-03-26 by Anonymous - exposion sounds in Florida

Explosion sounds right now saint cloud, fl?

On 2022-03-26 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - first check for an immediate emergency & get out of the building if present

@Anonymous,

Watch out: If there are explosion sounds coming from INSIDE YOUR HOME you should get everyone out and call 911.

Otherwise while there are other less-likely booming noise sound sources in Florida, for the case you mention, you may be hearing aircraft-generated booming sounds - your location is not far from Florida's Patrick Airforce Base or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida.


On 2022-02-02 by Kelly Trewella - loud bang every 35 minutes

Every 35 minutes I hear a loud bang inside my home. It doesn’t correlate with water running or the heater turning on. It happens when nothing is running. I’ve been in my utility closet when it happens (in my basement). Nothing is happening in there.

It seems to be above the basement below the first floor. No clogged drains or backed up water. Is this a plumbing issue or an HVAC issue?

On 2022-02-02 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Kelly Trewella,

Please take a look at our catalog of sources of banging noises in homes

BANGING BOOMING NOISE DIAGNOSIS & CURE

and let us know what you find after stepping through those noise sources and noise diagnosis suggestions.



...

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Or see NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSTIC FAQs - questions & answers about finding and curing the source of building or house noises

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NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSIS & CURE at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.


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Citations & References

In addition to any citations in the article above, a full list is available on request.

  • ACGIH "A Guide For the Control of Audible Sound Hazards" 1st Ed., ACGIH, American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists, Threshold Limit Value for Physical Agents Committee, (2020) Website: acgih.org
  • Acoustical Society of AmericaElaine Moran, ASA Office Manager, Suite 1NO1, 2 Huntington Quadrangle, Melville, NY 11747-4502 516) 576-2360, FAX: (516) 576-2377 email: asa@aip.org.
    ASA is an excellent source of noise and sound standards. Quoting from the associations history page:

    "From the Society's inception, its members have been involved in the development of acoustical standards concerned with terminology, measurement procedures, and criteria for determining the effects of noise and vibration.

    In 1932, The American National Standards Institute (ANSI), then called the American Standards Association, appointed the Acoustical Society as sponsor of a committee, designated as Z-24, to standardize acoustical terminology and measurements.

    The work of this committee expanded to such an extent that it was replaced in 1957 by three committees, S1 on Acoustics, S2 on Mechanical Shock and Vibration, and S3 on Bioacoustics, with a fourth, S12 on Noise, added in 1981.

    These four committees are each responsible for producing, developing a consensus for, and adopting standards in accordance with procedures approved by ANSI. Although these committees are independent of the Acoustical Society, the Society provides the financial support and an administrative Secretariat to facilitate their work.

    After a standard is adopted by one of these committees and approved by ANSI, the Secretariat arranges for its publication by ASA through the American Institute of Physics. The ASA also distributes ISO and IEC standards.

    Abstracts of standards and ordering information can be found online on the ASA Standards Page. More than 100 acoustical standards have been published in this way; a catalog is also available from the Standards Secretariat (631-390-0215; Fax: 631-390-0217).

    The Society also provides administrative support for several international standards committees and acts as the administrative Secretariat (on behalf of ANSI) for the International Technical Committee on Vibration and Shock (TC-108)."
    - http://asa.aip.org/history.html

  • ANSI/ASA S12.60, Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools, 2002.

  • [1] Connelly, Maureen, Hodgson, Murray, "Thermal and Acoustical Performance of Green Roofs", Sound Transmission Loss of Green roofs, [presentation, Session 1.5], Greening Rooftops for Sustainable Communities, conference, awards, trade show, Baltimore MD, 30 April-2 may 2008. Web search 4/3/2011 original source: commons.bcit.ca/greenroof/publications/2008_grhc_connelly_hodgson.pdf.

    These authors provide an excellent bibliography of references for sound transmission in buildings, including some of the references cited just below:
    • Sharp, BH 1973, Study of Techniques to Increase the Sound Insulation of Building Elements. U.S. Department of Commerce PB-222 829, Washington.
    • Sharp, BH & Martin S 1996, "The Measurement of Aircraft Noise Reduction in Residences", Proceedings of Inter-Noise, Liverpool, 1996, pp. 2747-2752.
    • Friberg, R 1973, "Transmission Loss and Absorption Factors for Corrugated Steel Roofs, Insulation on the Outside", Proceedings of Inter-Noise, Copenhagen, 1973, pp. 213-217.
  • [2] Colbond, EnkaTech Note, "Acoustical Benefits of Roof Underlayments", Colbond Inc., PO Box 1057, Enka NC 28728, Tel: 800-365-7391, website: www.colbond-usa.com web search 4/3/2011, original source: products.construction.com/swts_content_files/1329/E835617.pdf
  • [3] General Steel Corporation, "The Facts About the Acoustical Performance of Metal Building Insulation 2", Sound Transmission Class, General Steel Corporation, 10639 W. Bradford Road, Littleton, CO 80127, web search 4/3/11, original source: http://www.gensteel.com/insulation_facts-5a.htm
  • [4] North American Insulation Manufacturers Association NAIMA, "Insulation Facts #58: The Facts About the Acoustical Performance of Metal Building Insulation", NAIMA, 44 Canal Plaza, Suite 310, Alexandria VA 22314, tel: 703-684-0084, website: http://www.naima.org/
  • [5] Sarah Hager Johnston, Peregrine Information Consultants, Tel: 860-676-2228, Website: www.peregrineinfo.com Email: info@peregrineinfo.co

    Research and writing for insurance, risk management, safety & health, business, and medical professionals. Quoting:

    Peregrine Information Consultants provides customized secondary research, technical information, and standards, news, current awareness services, writing, and editing to support U.S. clients in property/casualty insurance, risk management and loss control, occupational safety and health, consumer safety, business, retail, manufacturing, and other industries.
  • Best Practices Guide to Residential Construction, by Steven Bliss. John Wiley & Sons, 2006. ISBN-10: 0471648361, ISBN-13: 978-0471648369, Hardcover: 320 pages, available from Amazon.com and also Wiley.com. See our book review of this publication.
  • DEVELOPMENTS in NOISE CONTROL [PDF] NRCC, National Research Council, Canada, suggestions for noise control, sound transmission through block walls, plumbing noise control, noise leaks, and sound control advice. Web search 01/17/2011, original source: www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/ibp/irc/bsi/90-noise-control.html
  • Thanks to audiologist Cheryl P. Harllee, licensed hearing specialist, for discussing noises and noise problems in preparation for this article. Ms. Harllee can be located at the Village Hearing Center, 249 U.S. Highway One, Tequesta FL 33469 561-744-0231
  • [10] Fujitsu Room Air Conditioner, Wall Mounted Type, Heat & Cool Model (Reverse Cycle) [Heat pump units] Operating Manual, Models: ASU18RLXS ASU24RLXS ASU30RLX (indoor & outdoor units).

    Fujitsu General America, Inc., 353 Route 46 West, Fairfield, NJ 07004, Tel: (888) 888-3424, Tel-Service hotline: (866) 952-8324, Email: hvac@fujitsugeneral.com, Email service: servicehvac@fujitsugeneral.com, retrieved 8/30/12, original source: fujitsugeneral.com/PDF_06/OperationManual/%28OM%29ASU18-24RLX-30RLX.pdf - dead link 2023/04/13
  • [11] Bauer, B., “Microphone Directivity”, Transactions of the IRE-PGA, July 1952, 10-20
  • [12] Killion, M., et. al., “Real-World Performance of an ITE Directional Microphone”, The Hearing Journal, April
    1998
  • [13] Blauert, J.: Spatial hearing: the psychophysics of human sound localization; MIT Press; Cambridge, Massachusetts (1983)
  • [14] Localization of sound in rooms, the effect of visual fixation [PDF] W.M.Hartmann, {Proceedings 11th ICA}, (Journal d'Acoustique) {3}, 139-142 (1983). - Original source: www.pa.msu.edu/acoustics/37loc.pdf
  • [15] "Localization of a source of sound in a room," W.M. Hartmann, Proc. Audio Engr. Soc. Eighth International Conference, ed. S. Pizzi, pp 27-32, AES, New York (1990).
  • Hartmann, W.M., LOCALIZATION of SOUND in ROOMS [PDF] , retrieved 2023/04/13, original source: web.pa.msu.edu/acoustics/rooms1.pdf and US NIH at pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6643850/

    Abstract

    This paper is concerned with the localization of sources of sounds by human listeners in rooms. It presents the results of source-identification experiments designed to determine whether the ability to localize sound in a room depends upon the room acoustics, and how it depends upon the nature of the source signal.

    The experiments indicate that the localization of impulsive sounds, with strong attack transients, is independent of the room reverberation time, though it may depend upon the room geometry. For sounds without attack transients, localization improves monotonically with the spectral density of the source.

    Localization of continuous broadband noise does depend upon room reverberation time, and we propose the concept of direct signal to reverberant noise ratio to study that effect.

    Source identification experiments reveal certain localization biases, invisible to minimum-audible-angle experiments, and of uncertain origin. Appendices to this paper develop the statistics of the source-identification paradigm and show how they relate to the minimum audible angle.
  • Rakerd, Brad & W.M. Hartmann, LOCALIZATION OF SOUND IN ROOMS, II: THE EFFECTS OF A SINGLE REFLECTING SURFACE [PDF]  The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 78, no. 2 (1985): 524-533.
  • Tabry, Vanessa, Robert J. Zatorre, and Patrice Voss. THE INFLUENCE OF VISION ON SOUND LOCALIZATION ABILITIES IN BOTH THE HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL PLANES [PDF]  Frontiers in psychology 4 (2013): 932.
    Abstract:
    Numerous recent reports have suggested that individuals deprived of vision are able to develop heightened auditory spatial abilities. However, most such studies have compared the blind to blindfolded sighted individuals, a procedure that might introduce a strong performance bias.

    Indeed, while blind individuals have had their whole lives to adapt to this condition, sighted individuals might be put at a severe disadvantage when having to localize sounds without visual input.

    To address this unknown, we compared the sound localization ability of eight sighted individuals with and without a blindfold in a hemi-anechoic chamber.

    Sound stimuli were broadband noise delivered via two speaker arrays: a horizontal array with 25 loudspeakers (ranging from −90° to +90°; 7.5°) and a vertical array with 16 loudspeakers (ranging from −45° to +67.5°).

    A factorial design was used, where we compared two vision conditions (blindfold vs. non-blindfold), two sound planes (horizontal vs. vertical) and two pointing methods (hand vs. head).

    Results show that all three factors significantly interact with one another with regards to the average absolute deviation error. Although blindfolding significantly affected all conditions, it did more so for head-pointing in the horizontal plane.

    Moreover, blindfolding was found to increase the tendency to undershoot more eccentric spatial positions for head-pointing, but not hand-pointing.

    Overall, these findings suggest that while proprioceptive cues appear to be sufficient for accurate hand pointing in the absence of visual feedback, head pointing relies more heavily on visual cues in order to provide a precise response.

    It also strongly argues against the use of head pointing methodologies with blindfolded sighted individuals, particularly in the horizontal plane, as it likely introduces a bias when comparing them to blind individuals.
  • [16] "Auditory Localization in rooms [PDF] W.M. Hartmann, Proc. Audio Engr. Soc. Twelfth International Conference, ed. S. Bech pp 34-39, AES, New York (1993). "Listening in a Room and the Precedence Effect," W.M. Hartmann, in
  • [17] Binaural and Spatial Hearing} ed. R.H. Gilkey and T.B. Anderson, pp 191-210, L. Erlbaum Associates (1997).
  • [18] Localization of noise in a reverberant environment, [PDF] B. Rakerd and W.M. Hartmann, Proceedings of the 13th International Symposium on Hearing, Dourdon, France, 2003. - original source: pa.msu.edu/acoustics/rakhar2.pdf
  • [18] Medhi Batel et als., "Noise Source Location Techniques - Simple to Advanced Applications", Sound and Vibration, March 2003, retrieved 4/23/2013 original source www.sandv.com/downloads/0303bate.pdf [copy on file as Noise_Source_Location_Techs0303bate.pdf]
  • Thanks to reader Sue Hazeldine, from the U.K. for discussing how she tracked down a whistling chimney noise to an antique hanging sign on the building exterior - 01/19/2010.
  • Thanks to reader Michael Anderson, 8 May 2009, for discussing clicking sounds coming from air conditioning equipment.
  • Thanks to reader Erna Ross who described loss of sleep due to a hissing noise at her home 06/15/2008.
  • Marpac, produces white sound generators, a product that they identify as the Marpac sound conditioner. Marpac can be contacted at http://www.marpac.com/ or contact the Marpac Corporation, P.O. Box 560 Rocky Point, NC 28457 Phone: 800-999-6962 (USA and Canada) Fax: 910-602-1435 1-910-602-1421 (worldwide), 800-999- or email: info@marpac.com
  • Sound Oasis sound conditioners are produced by Sound Oasis: http://www.sound-oasis.com/ email: info@sound-oasis.com or 1-866-625-3218
  • Barrier Ultra-R super high-R building panels, produced by Glacier Bay, use Aerogel and are rated up to R-30 per inch, or in Barrier Ultra-r™ panels, R-50 per inch.

    The company also produces acoustic panels that are Ultra-db resistant and lightweight. Unlike the appliance insulation panels discussed in the original Q&A above on miracle insulation, these Areogel based panels will continue to retain some, though reduced insulating value if punctured, performing at perhaps R-9 per inch.

    The product is used in marine refrigerators, but in the future may be available as a residential construction product. The company is researching specialized products in medical, transportation, and aerospace applications. Contact: Glacier Bay, Inc., 2930 Faber Street, Union City, CA 94587 U.S.A., (510) 437-9100, Sales and Technical Information - sales@glacierbay.com
  • Tremco, Tremco Global Sealants Division, 10701 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland OH 44104 - see www.tremcosealants.com/
  • Ideal Tape, Inc., 1400 Middlesex St., Lowell MA 01853 - see abitape.com/tape/iframe_ideal.htm Tel: 1-800-284-3325
  • 3-M Corporation, tape products, see solutions.3m.com/
  • US EPA Noise Regulations & References
    • Noise Control act - http://www.nonoise.org/epa/act.htm
    • Quiet Communities Act: noise law,

      TITLE 42--THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE CHAPTER 65-- NOISE CONTROL Sec. 4913. Quiet communities, research, and public information [PDF] (1996)

      Excerpt:

      To promote the development of effective State and local noise control programs, to provide an adequate Federal noise control research program designed to meet the objectives of this chapter, and to otherwise carry out the policy of this chapter, the administrator shall, in cooperation with other Federal agencies and through the use of grants, contracts, and direct Federal actions-
    • Quiet Communities Act - 1978 Text File
    • Federal Regulations from the EPA's Office of Noise Abatement & Control - http://www.nonoise.org/epa/reg.htm
    • Guignard, J.C., Ed., A BASIS FOR LIMITING NOISE EXPOSURE FOR HEARING CONSERVATION [PDF] (1973) University of Dayton Research Institute, Dayton, OH, prepared for the US EPA, Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory, AMRL-TR-73-90, EPA-550/0-73-001-A joint USAF - EPA study - original source: nonoise.org/epa/Roll1/roll1doc1.pdf
    • Noise - a Health Problem - http://www.nonoise.org/library/epahlth/epahlth.htm - quoted below

      Racket, din, clamor, noise. Whatever you want to call it, unwanted sound is America's most widespread nuisance. But noise is more than just a nuisance. It constitutes a real and present danger to people's health.

      Day and night, at home, at work, and at play, noise can produce serious physical and psychological stress. No one is immune to this stress. Though we seem to adjust to noise by ignoring it, the ear, in fact, never closes and the body still responds - sometimes with extreme tension, as to a strange sound in the night.

      The annoyance we feel when faced with noise is the most common outward symptom of the stress building up inside us. Indeed, because irritability is so apparent, legislators have made public annoyance the basis of many noise abatement programs.

      The more subtle and more serious health hazards associated with stress caused by noise traditionally have been given much less attention. Nonetheless, when we are annoyed or made irritable by noise, we should consider these symptoms fair warning that other things may be happening to us, some of which may be damaging to our health.

    • Protective Noise Levels - 1979, basis for many local noise ordinances and codes - http://www.nonoise.org/library/levels/levels.htm

      This publication is intended to complement the EPA's "Levels Document,"* the 1974 report examining levels of environmental noise necessary to protect public health and welfare. It interprets the contents of the Levels Document in less technical terms for people who wish to better understand the concepts presented there, and how the protective levels were identified. In that sense, this publication may serve as an introduction, or a supplement, to the Levels Document.
  • "Measurement of Highway-Related Noise", US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/measure/chap8.htm
  • "Sound Decisions" 9/85 p.11 and "Soundproof Room" in 5/85 p.7 in The New England Builder, Box 97, East Haven, VT 05837 (802) 223-6123.
  • "Noise and Vibration Control in Buildings", Robert S. Jones, McGraw-Hill Book Co., PO Box 400, Hightstown, NJ 08520-9989 #006431-8 [$47.50]
  • "Shoptalk", Builder Magazine, NAHB, Feb. 1986 p. 138, Martin M. Mintz, AIA, Director of NAHB Technical Services - article about constructing soundproof floors using wood joists and plywood subfloors.
  • Guide to Airborne, Impact, and Structure Borne Noise Control in Multifamily Dwellings", Federal Housing Administration publication.
  • "Construction Principles, Materials and Methods", Olin, Schmidt, and Lewis.
  • "Soundproofing a Music Studio", Gene DeSmidt, Fine Homebuilding, Taunton Press, 63 S. Main St., PO Box 355, Newton, CT 06470 No. 35, October/November 1986.
  • "Building a Recording Studio", Jeff Cooper, Synergy Group, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, ISBN 0-916899-00-4.
  • "The Book Nook" - how to build a quiet room, Rodale's Practical Homeowner, October, 1987, p. 50-61. This issue, p. 98-99, has a good list of manufacturers/distributors of a range of noise control products such as acoustical sealants, ceiling systems, resilient channels, wall panels, window coverings, etc.
  • In addition to citations & references found in this article, see the research citations given at the end of the related articles found at our suggested

    CONTINUE READING or RECOMMENDED ARTICLES.


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