How Noise and Vibration in Condominiums are affecting Mental Health
It is disheartening but not surprising to see the recent hot topic of "mental health in condominiums" really take off and gain attention only after a tragic event in Vaughan, Canada. For far too long, precursors that add to mental health have been a neglected issue in the condominium industry, especially those pertaining impact noise and vibration.
However, it is important to acknowledge that these discussions did not suddenly appear due to a tragic event or a sudden shift in priorities. In fact, conversations regarding reducing stress, anxiety, and improving the quality of life in condominiums has been ongoing at The Floor Studio since 1996.
We want to make it clear that we are not mental health experts, but we have witnessed the effects noise and vibration have on mental health issues first hand in condominiums. We understand that mental health problems can have a profound impact on an individual's well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.
While it is encouraging to see progress in this area explode, it is also understandable to question the timing of those who have recently begun to offer courses, webinars, and other resources focused on this topic.
“Unfortunately too often it falls upon deaf ears"
It is important to recognize and appreciate the efforts of those who have been working on this issue for many years, including those who have been providing financial support, education and free resources to help promote better mental health in condominiums. The challenge now is to continue the work already begun, and to build upon the progress made thus far, in order to create a more peaceful, quieter and healthier living environment for all residents.
The Floor Studio is a proud financial supporter of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and recognizes the significant impact that noise and vibration can have on mental health in condos. We have been working tirelessly for many years to raise awareness of this issue and promote rules, methods and products that are proven to mitigate the negative effects of noise and vibration on residents.
For three decades we have partnered with several thousand condominiums to educate and update condo rules, ensuring that only acoustic underlayments made and tested for condominiums are stipulated in the properties' condo rules.
Unfortunately, we have observed that our messages are often ignored, and Condo Managers, on behalf of the Board of Directors, frequently approve products that fall well below the recommended building code. Let’s be clear, this may not be intentional, but does it matter? This can have a severe impact on the health and well-being of residents, as low-quality products often fail to effectively mitigate the effects of noise and vibration that we know play a roll on mental health.
You Should Know This:
Did you know almost every acoustic underlayment sold in Canada adds a suspended ceiling consisting of sound batt insulation and drywall during the test to increase their acoustic test score?
Did you know the majority of high-rise condominiums do not have suspended ceilings?
This would be comparable to installing a motorcycle tire on your car. How do you think it would perform?
Products advertising IIC 71 - IIC 85 should be the first sign of trouble. Our inspections indicate these products are almost always tested with suspended ceilings. Yet, hundreds of condo boards, managers and outdated rules request these products to be installed under flooring. This is a problem that needs to be addressed yesterday!
We know RHINO has been field tested over an 8” concrete slab with NO suspended ceiling and received an acoustic rating of FIIC 70. It’s the main reason we began recommending it back in 2009.
It works by absorbing up to 90% of impact sound and vibration preventing it from traveling through the floors and ceilings. This means that most residents can enjoy their home without being disturbed by the noise from their neighbors.
Choosing the proper acoustic underlayment is not just about reducing noise – it also has the potential to bring condo communities together. By creating a more peaceful living environment, it can help to improve communication and foster a sense of community within the complex.
We are committed to listening to the needs of our customers and delivering on its promises. We have an impeccable track record of being responsive to the needs of condo communities and working to address their concerns.
In conclusion, it is clear that acoustic underlayment’s play a vital role in bringing condo communities together. RHINO has assisted 2500 condo buildings in Canada by improving the quality of life for all residents by reducing impact noise transmission and fostering a sense of community through improved communication.
“RHINO pledges to every Condo Corporation and it’s Residents,
- Complimentary review of current condo rule pertaining to flooring
- Complimentary fully editable updated condo rule for your building type completed by a condo law professional
- A guaranteed price freeze for a period of 2 years, RHINO Sound Control, $1.35 / Sq.Ft.".
The Floor Studio is a Proud Donor
At a time when our communities are facing so many challenges, it is more important than ever that we work together and support one another. RHINO Sound Control is a valuable partner in this effort, as it helps to create a better environment for all of us.
For a detailed plan on how to prevent impact noise and vibration in your building creating a more peaceful environment in your condo, or if you just want to talk to us, we can be reached at rhino@thefloorstudio.ca.