Sounds of Silence

By J.C. Cohen
June, 2000

Nearby nightlife can cause noise problems that don't respond to do-it-yourself solutions.

The first step is to identify the source, says Alan Fierstein, president of Acoustilog.Noise could be entering through a window or a weak spot in a wall. "What works in one building doesn't work in another", he says.

To minimize noise: Mask sudden sounds with a fan, air conditioner, or white-noise machine. "This makes noise more palatable" says Fierstein."The noise is under your own control and is steady".

Rearrange your home's layout. Put the bed in the quietest spot. Heavy drapes, padded rugs and cushiony furniture help absorb sound.

Add an interior window. Double-paned glass muffles sound.

Rebuilding walls and floors is also possible, but may require professional help and an agreeable landlord.

Complain about noisy nightspots to the city's 24-hour hotline, 718-DEP-HELP. The Department of Environmental Protection will send an inspector to measure sound. Violations are issued starting at 45 decibels.

Check out the noise situation - day and night - before moving in.

"Ask the neighbors", says Fierstein.