Real Estate Brokers and Building Managers

Resources for Real Estate Brokers & Building Managers

Based out of the Twin Cities, Building Systems Solutions provides sound systems that address safety, communication, and privacy concerns for buildings of all types and sizes. Since 2003, we have developed a large and growing customer base of clients in a diverse range of industries throughout the Twin Cities metro area.

Here are some common questions that Commercial Real Estate Brokers and Property Managers ask us regarding a Soft dB Sound Masking System for their tenant’s facilities:

What types of facilities can benefit from a sound masking system?
  • Office spaces with low or no cubicle partitions.
  • Facilities that utilize reflective materials, such glass and other hard surfaces in many of their interior design elements.
  • Large, open office spaces.
  • Companies that handle sensitive or confidential information, like those in the health, legal, and financial industries.
  • Organizations that value worker productivity and occupational health.
What are the productivity and privacy benefits of installing or retrofitting a sound masking system?

  • Sound masking systems emit random sound waves that interrupt speech patterns so speech becomes less unintelligible and distracting. Less distraction leads to increased productivity for all staff members.
  • Installing a sound masking system also ensures that confidential conversations remain private and are not broadcast through the office.

Where can I get product specifications for Soft dB’s Sound Masking Systems?

You can find Soft db product information on our Soft dB Products page. To request the spec sheets for our Soft dB system components, please contact us.

Can a Soft dB Sound Masking System work with an existing system?

Retrofitting a sound masking system is an easy process. Building Systems Solutions will design and install a customized system to meet your needs, taking into account the future or existing construction of your project. Contact us today to get started.

Are sound masking systems adjustable and expandable?

Yes! Both our sound masking and emergency warning and paging systems can be adjusted and expanded. In fact, our sound masking systems are able to automatically adjust the ambient noise they emit into your space.

How does sound masking contribute to a green construction project?
  • Facilities can reduce construction and material costs for insulation, sound baffling, and absorbent material by incorporating sound masking. Reducing materials helps qualify for LEED certification.
  • Sound masking allows designers to open facilities for better air flow and natural light, which helps facilities meet LEED qualifications.
  • According to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the leading certifying body for LEED construction projects, the goal of green construction is to incorporate both environmental and employee well-being into the project. Sound masking systems help green designers fulfill Indoor Environmental Quality, a key area of LEED certification:

    “The Indoor Environmental Quality category promotes strategies that improve indoor air as well as those that provide access to natural daylight and views and improve acoustics.”

Sound masking systems improve the acoustical environment of your workspace and contribute to increased worker productivity and comfort. Contact us today to learn more.

Can sound masking be considered a tenant improvement?

Yes! It is just as important as any other facility upgrade, and can increase the value of a space for prospective tenants. It can also be used in lease negotiations with current tenants as an added feature.

What can companies expect to invest in a sound masking system?

Typical costs for sound masking systems 10,000 square feet or under are $1.50 per square foot. In spaces larger than 10,000 square feet, the typical cost is $1.00 per square foot. Economy of scale: as square footage increases, cost per square foot decreases.

Learn More About Sound Masking for Your Building

Contact us today to learn more about the Soft dB Sound Masking System for your facility or to schedule a demo at our office in Blaine.

Words From Satisified Customers

We have worked with BSS on several sound masking projects for our clients with successful results. The process begins with a well-designed layout and an accurate budget. That way the client knows exactly what they are getting and can adjust as needed. Their team is responsive and great to work with during the install process. After install BSS schedules a tutorial with the client on how to use their new sound masking system. Because BSS is a leader in product and design the client receives an intuitive system thus another satisfied client.

Heather Weerheim
Greiner Construction