Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in buildings are primary sources of noise complaints by occupants. The hum from a transformer, low frequency rumble from ductwork, tonal sound of rooftop condensing units, and rushing water sounds from plumbing pipes in walls are among the many sounds that can disturb building occupants and lead to complaints. We specialize in diagnosing and solving these types of problems in buildings.

We don’t just take acoustical measurements and tell you that you have a noise problem! You already know that!  

We provide practical noise control and vibration isolation solutions and assist you every step of the way until they are fully implemented and working as intended. We prefer to engage in a three step process to solve noise and vibration issues in buildings, giving you the best chance for a successful outcome.

• Using precision grade noise and vibration measurement equipment and advanced acoustical measurement techniques, we identify the source and magnitude of the offending noise or vibration, providing a quantitative, scientific basis for the recommendations that follow.
• Next, we provide project specific noise control and vibration mitigation solutions, including product specifications and design details, often including multiple design options for the Client to consider. Recommendations can be prioritized so the Client can implement them in stages as funds become available.
• We are very involved in the implementation phase of the recommendations, reviewing Contractor’s submittals, answering RFIs, and employing our years of field experience and in-depth knowledge of installation requirements for noise and vibration control products and systems during construction site reviews to verify compliance with our recommendations.

QUALIFICATIONS

Principal Consultant Rob Lilkendey has spent over 20 years as an acoustical consultant specializing in noise control and vibration isolation for building mechanical systems.  He has worked on the design of over 1,000 mechanical systems in buildings of all types, including world class performing arts projects, luxury condominiums, hospitals, schools, museums, office buildings, courthouses, apartment buildings and religious facilities, among others. He has solved over 100 existing noise and vibration issues in buildings, including:

• rooftop exhaust fan vibrations affecting sensitive laser and optical equipment in a research and education building
• emergency generator noise disturbing residents in a nearby apartment building
• noise and vibration from pumps, exhaust fans, chillers, and other equipment disturbing owners of multi-million dollar penthouse units in luxury condominiums
• noise from centrifugal pumps and chilled water piping affecting over 40 apartments in a residential building
• packaged rooftop air handling units above classrooms required to meet LEED for Schools sound level limits
• make-up air handling units on the roof of a luxury condominium building generating noise and vibration in residential Units several floor below the roof
• condensing units on the roof of a mixed-use building
• laundry room equipment noise affecting guests in hotel rooms