The term “soundproofing” has quite a few different meanings so in the interest of clarity, we will define this phrase as limiting or reducing the transmission of sound from one space to another.

Outside Noise vs. Inside Noise

When first approaching a sound issue, we have to determine if the source of the sound is outside, inside, or a combination of the two.

One must critically inspect and understand the nature of the problem through observation and client discussion. Having a clear understanding of the type of noise you are trying to reduce is important. Exterior noise problems are often situations where the noise is coming from one specific location like loud pieces of machinery, road traffic or equipment.

Sound is a significant part of life and can sometimes be potentially detrimental. Unwanted sounds can interfere with the course of regular business, negatively impact productivity, and lead to loss of revenue. In certain institutions, such as financial or medical buildings, confidential and personal information is commonly discussed, thus the proper sound controls are critical for the protection of the institution and their clients/patients.

In other situations, noise is more than just an occasional annoyance; it can be dangerous where concentration from employees is critical. Noise can cause irreparable hearing loss and be a cause of general body fatigue. It can also cause onsite confusion that can result in poor production affecting the value of goods, serious injury, or worse. Noise reduction can help to improve employee mood and increase general productivity.

Whether inside a building, walls, doors, floors and ceilings, as well as HVAC ductwork will need to be taken under consideration in a wholistic approach to sound attenuation.
STC, or Sound Transmission Class, is a widely used rating of how well a building wall attenuates airborne sound. It provides an estimate of how much a wall, window or door might stop sound. While not the complete answer, it does provide a base for conversation and is the most common measurement of sound reduction currently being used.

Below is a chart with STC levels and its corresponding sound equivalent:

STC Track Application
25 Normal speech can be easily heard and understood
30 Loud speech can be easily heard and understood
35 Loud speech heard, but not understood
40 Loud speech now only a murmur
45 Loud speech not heard, music systems / heavy traffic noise still a potential problem
50 Very loud sounds such as musical instruments or a stereo can be faintly heard
60+ Excellent soundproofing

NCS will work with your staff or facilities personal to meet your objectives in sound control once we have a full scope in identifying and understanding the problem.
Current types of clients/projects for which we have provided sound control for:

Banks, Credit unions
Hospital admin offices
Financial departments
CEO & CFO personal offices
Executive suites, bathrooms

Call NCS to set up a confidential meeting to discuss your concerns and issues.