Oversensitivity To Sound – Does It Exist?

Noise Measurements | October 27, 2025  | Ivan Koval

Occasionally, I get a client complaining about noises that others (for example, a spouse) cannot hear, or that do not bother others. The client insists that I test the noise level and devise a way of reducing it.  Is the client oversensitive to noise (hyperacusis)?

Read More
Oversensitivity To Sound – Does It Exist?

Botched Room Soundproofing

Noise Control Case Study | March 15, 2025  | Ivan Koval

A contractor contacted me to test the sound transmission loss (STC value) at his newly built high-security conference room and confirm that the room’s soundproofing meets the client’s requirements for STC 55. The test failed.

Read More
Botched Room Soundproofing

Flushing Noise Soundproofing

Noise Control Case Study | January 26, 2025  | Ivan Koval

A condo owner called me to tell this story. She has a problem with toilet flushing noise from the apartment above her, which wake her up at night.

Read More
Flushing Noise Soundproofing

Apple AirPods Pro 2 as a Hearing Aid

Technology News | December 11, 2024  | Ivan Koval

Apple recently announced that AirPods Pro 2 can be used as a hearing aid. Here is a list of 100 countries where this function works. Canada is not among them.

Read More
Apple AirPods Pro 2 as a Hearing Aid

Noise Barrier – Can It Benefit you?

Soundproofing | December 7, 2024  | Ivan Koval

Designing an effective noise barrier involves understanding key principles of acoustics, materials, and environmental design principles. Here are the major factors to consider:

Read More
Noise Barrier – Can It Benefit you?

Noise Complaints From Neighbours

Condominium Noise | September 25, 2024  | Ivan Koval

Condominium owners and tenants are becoming more aware of noise. The recently established Condominium Authority Ontario adjudicates noise disputes between residents and between residents and condo management.

Read More
Noise Complaints From Neighbours

Acoustic Challenges Of Tall Wood Buildings

Soundproofing | September 4, 2024  | Ivan Koval

Tall wood buildings, often referred to as “mass timber” or “cross-laminated timber (CLT)” structures, present several unique acoustic challenges.

Read More
Acoustic Challenges Of Tall Wood Buildings

Does impact noise from upstairs bother you?

Soundproofing | May 23, 2024  | Ivan Koval

Living in an apartment building, condominium, or basement apartment, you might find the most common noise complaint to be the one caused by your neighbours living above your apartment. The sound of footsteps, dropped objects, chair shuffling, children running, or bouncing balls can be incredibly disruptive due to its frequency and unpredictability, and we understand

Read More
Does impact noise from upstairs bother you?