Six Soundproofing Myths Promoted by a Celebrity Contractor

Soundproofing | July 4, 2020  | Ivan Koval

Mike Holmes is one of Canada’s most respected contractors and TV personalities. He is known for the slogan “Make it right.” I am a fan of his; he knows renovations and describes his approach well in his book. However, he is not a soundproofing contractor, yet, he promotes soundproofing myths.

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Six Soundproofing Myths Promoted by a Celebrity Contractor

Living With Noise In Toronto Condos

Condominium Noise | June 20, 2020  | Ivan Koval

I have recently received several questions about noise in Toronto condos from condominium owners, or potential condo buyers.  Here are some of the questions that I am quoting verbatim:

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Living With Noise In Toronto Condos

How to soundproof your house

Noise Control Case Study | February 23, 2020  | Ivan Koval

If you are building a new house or are doing a major renovation, this article is for you. With attention to details and with little additional cost, you can soundproof your house and build it to be quiet and pleasant. I will outline the main points to making your new house quiet and enjoyable.

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How to soundproof your house

Why Architects Should Work With Acoustical Engineers?

Acoustics of Interiors | January 19, 2020  | Ivan Koval

Many architects believe that they know enough about building acoustics. They think that they do not need help from an acoustical engineers.  Most university programs for architects include lessons about building acoustics. However, this course is not a substitute for an acoustical engineer’s knowledge, an expert who specializes in building acoustics.

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Why Architects Should Work With Acoustical Engineers?

Intractable Mechanical Noise in a Condo

Noise Control Case Study | December 26, 2019  | Ivan Koval

A client, a condominium board, asked me to assess an intractable mechanical noise level in a condominium apartment that is located below a roof-mounted chiller.

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Intractable Mechanical Noise in a Condo

Noise Investigation of Whistling Plumbing Pipes

Noise Control Case Study | August 5, 2019  | Ivan Koval

Recently a client called me to investigate noise in his commercial unit located next to a dentist’s office.  I have had a similar case previously, but this one was different. The noise sounded like an organ pipe whistle.

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Noise Investigation of Whistling Plumbing Pipes

Neighborhood Noise From a Roller Coaster

Noise Control Case Study | July 1, 2019  | Ivan Koval

I am interested in all aspects of acoustics, including neighborhood noise. Occasionally, when I find something very interesting and well presented, I share it in my blog.

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Neighborhood Noise From a Roller Coaster

Dubious Soundproofing Advice on You Tube

Soundproofing | February 22, 2019  | Ivan Koval

You Tube provides a huge source of advice videos on any topic, including soundproofing.  The videos you can find are of varied quality, from dubious or ridiculous, to good.  Often it is difficult to recognize the difference.

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Dubious Soundproofing Advice on You Tube