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 Almost unlimited sizes shapes can be accomplished with little or no lead-time when specifying a Tech-Wall “Stretched Fabric Wall System”. 

This section will provide you with valuable information on the materials recommended for use with each Track System.  Being a Site Fabricated Track System there are no limits on the lengths of panels. With standard pre-made fabric or vinyl wrapped panels you have a vertical panel joint every 4 feet. With Tech-Wall’s “Stretched Fabric Wall System “Panel sizes 100 feet and above are common! 

1. How is the fabric held into place if it is not bonded to the core? Tech-Wall uses a “track system”. The fabric is held in the track’s jaws. The jaws are more then strong enough to firmly hold the fabric in place without sagging for years while allowing the fabric to be easily removed and replaced. (This is somewhat akin to rescreening a screen)

2. Are fabrics durable enough to be used as a wallcovering? Yes, Today’s fabrics are very durable, they have been proven to stand up to daily abuse encountered in high traffic areas such as, hallways, classrooms, and theaters. Tech-Wall’s Stretched-fabric Wall System has even been installed in over 10,000 Dorm Rooms throughout California.

3. Does the (1/2 Inch) Tackable system also provide any acoustical benefits? Yes, Tech-Wall’s (1/2 Inch Tackable) Stretched-fabric Wall System does provide a noise reduction (NRC) of .50 - .55. (NRC values may vary based on the core used). The noise level in classrooms, student housing and offices are greatly reduced, making a more productive working & learning environment and enhancing the speech intelligibility in any room.

4. Are fabrics installed on a wall a fire hazard? No, All fabrics used must have an ASTM E-84 Class A (1) fire rating and pass State of CA Technical Bulletin 117 section E (CS-191-53). They can safely be used in schools, theaters, offices, residences, or any other interior space.

5. What Panel thicknesses does Tech-Wall Inc. provide? Tech-Wall’s Stretched–fabric Wall System can be used with a wide range of Acoustical and Tackable substrates and insulations. This allows our Track System to adapt panels from (1 Inch) up to (Six inches) which are frequently used for acoustic applications. Tech-Wall’s - (½” system) is typically used for Tackable applications.

6. Can we use in-house maintenance personnel to replace the fabric on damaged panels? When used as a District/Owner Standard or when a project is large enough Tech-Wall Inc. will train your in-house personnel to replace fabric.

7. Can we use in-house maintenance personnel to install new panels? Many School Districts have their in-house personnel trained on the installation of Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System. After training, your personnel will be able to install “easy” panels: i.e. rectangle panels in smaller sizes. Your local Tech-Wall installer should be called to install large whole walls and complex panels.

8. Do you have a Warranty or Service Plan? YES. All Tech-Wall’s Track Systems have a 5-Year Warranty and a 3-Year "NO COST FABRIC REPLACEMENT" Service Contract when Approved coverings are used. Universities and School Districts that make this system a standard move to a 15- year “No Cost” Service Contract *(see attached copies)

9. Can sewn seams be used? The use of sewn seams should NEVER be used! There will be a weak spot along the seam, it will start to pull apart and the salvage will leave an unsightly bump and nullify the ability to tack. When seaming is desired the Ultrasonic welded micro-joint should be used. *(See below)

10. Do you have any options to tracked joints? Yes. Ultrasonic welding of the fabric can be done with the Uultrasonic welded micro-joint. Since the salvage is only 1/16 of an inch there is no bulge in the fabric making for a strong almost invisible micro-joint.

11. Are we better off with ½" or 1" thick panels? This depends on the situation, ½" panels will usually be satisfactory; with a typical NRC of .50 - .60. (NRC values may vary based on the core used) we can normally design a room with improved acoustics. When faced with very bad acoustics or limitations on how much wall surface is available for coverage, 1" panels with a typical NRC of .80 - .85. (NRC values may vary based on the core used) will be needed. We often recommend increasing the coverage area with ½" panels before going to 1" panels. The reasoning behind this is to cover most of the surfaces that contribute to bad acoustics, such as; drywall which has an NRC of only .05 and is acoustically reflective. Whatever the situation, we have a system that will fit your project, design & budget needs. 

12. What is the square foot price of Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System ? The type of fabric, core material, wall surface, design layout, and size of the job are all factors that will determine cost. Most fabrics range in price from $14.50 to $30 a yard, core materials can run from $0.50 to $3.50 per square foot. A complex layout that has many obstacles, such as, windows or electrical outlets will add to the price. Panel height, layout, vertical/horizontal seams, and the substrate to which the panels are installed on (drywall, stucco, block, concrete, etc.) are all factors that have an effect on the amount of labor and materials needed. It is recommended to contact your local Tech-Wall Inc. installer rep. for layout, design and budgetary costs.

13. Are there any fabrics that cannot or should not be used? Yes, fabrics that are translucent will show the core and track underneath it. Heavily backed fabrics or wall carpet may have difficulty fitting into the tracks locking jaw system. Any fabric that does not have a Class A (1) fire rating cannot be used. It is highly recommended you contact Tech-Wall Inc your local installer in the planning phase of the project.

14. What type of Wall preparation is needed? Minimal, walls need to be in sound condition and fire taped. Taping shall be done to comply with fire codes and to prevent air leaks though the walls, which can cause fabric staining over the course of time.

15. Are there any problems with un-square or wavy walls? No, Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System will scribe to most existing wall conditions, and cover many imperfections in the walls' surface. This is very difficult to achieve with wrapped panels. There is also no need for exposed J-trim. 

16. Are change orders common when Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System is used? No. Being a site fabricated track system we automatically scribe to the existing wall conditions. Wrapped panels need to have the fabric peeled back, scribed and the core material cut, then reattach the fabric. When the panels match the elevation of casework, doorframes, etc, Tech-Wall’s site fabricated track system will normally hide discrepancies in the elevations. While the panels will not be square, to the eye they will look correct. Wrapped panels will need to have the correct angle cut for each panel or leave a very noticeable jog where the elevations do not match.

17. What can be done to keep costs down? Get your local Tech-Wall Inc distributor/installer involved with the design layout and fabric selection. Tech-Wall Inc can help choose a layout that will have the acoustic or tackable surfaces that you need, and the look that you desire. There is considerable flexibility in the materials that can be used and numerous other ways to reduce cost.

18. What edge profiles are available? Square or beveled profiles are available for both outside and mid-wall (intermediate) applications. Also a variety of trims can be used to achieve custom looks, such as wood, metal and stone,

19. What thicknesses are available? Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System Track comes in ½" and 1" thick track. Larger panels Up to (Six inches) can be a accomplished with the use of MDF furring or other methods.

20. Can the system be installed on a ceiling? Yes, Tech-Wall’s track is strong enough to hold the fabric on the ceiling without sagging. Excellent for hallways, lobbies, elevator, auditoriums, etc. or where acoustics may be a problem.

21. What panel sizes are possible with AcousticlWallFabric System? With Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System panels are custom field assembled and not limited to any set size. The size of a panel can range from a small Tackboard to a panel over 100 feet in length. The fabric determines the maximum width of the panel; most fabrics are 54 or 66 inches wide.

22. What kind of shapes & designs can be accomplished? Almost any shape or design can be accomplished: geometric shapes, letters, numbers, circles, logos, etc. Your imagination is the only limit to the design possibilities when using Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System. 

23. What if a Wall Panel gets damaged or we want to remodel? The unique design of Tech-Wall’s Stretched-fabric Wall System allows for the easy replacement of the fabric covering without replacing the core or track, similar to rescreening a window screen. The fabric can be replaced at a fraction of the cost of new panels. Many fabrics cost less than $15.00 per yard. There is a nominal fee to remove and replace the fabric. This is a great savings over factory made panels, which not only require that the whole panel be replaced but also have the added expense of having to demo the damaged panel and then prep and repair the wall. 

24. Can concave / convex walls be accomplished? Yes, Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System will follow the curves on most wall surfaces. This gives a clean, smooth look in any space.

25. Are your panels “green”? Can they help with meeting “LEED” specifications? Yes, Tech-Wall’s Stretched-Fabric Wall System can indeed contribute to achieving “LEED” certification when Textiles made from recycled materials are used in applications such as tackable wall coverings or acoustical treatments.This can contribute to meeting the “LEED CSI” requirements for recycled content in the Materials and resources category. Please contact your Tech-Wall Inc distributor/installer to ensure the correct materials are used.

26. Where can I get answers to questions that I have regarding AcousticalWallFabric Stretched-Fabric Wall System? By calling us at 870-542-5126, or logging on to our website www.acousticalWallfabric.com

 What is an Acoustic Panel Fabric?

Put simply, an “Acoustic Panel Fabric” is a fabric which is suitable for use in acoustic absorption products because of its acoustic properties.  It must be acoustically transparent; that is, penetrable to sound waves. 

Of course the work of absorbing sound in the room is being done by the acoustic substrate or insulation. So what's the purpose of the fabric? It's mostly there to make the room look great but there is more to it than just choosing an acoustic fabric based on aesthetics alone. The first job of an "Acoustic Panel Fabric" is to not get in the way of what the acoustic panel is there to do. You want the sound to pass right through the fabric and into the acoustic core material behind it. If the fabric is reflecting the sound back into the room your acoustic panels aren't doing a thing.

 With all of the above in mind, you are now ready for the fun part: Choosing a pattern and a color! We recommend the use of one of the many Acoustical & Tackable Panel Fabrics offered by Guilford of Maine. Made from post-consumer and postindustrial recycled polyester (soda bottles, Guilford of Maine fabrics have the strength and durability to withstand years of use and still look as great as the day that they were installed

What you need to know before buying or specifying a Fabric-Wall Covering on your next project

Selecting A “Fire-Rated-Fabric” Commercial building codes require that both fabrics and tackable/acoustical substrates and insulation materials selected for use as a wall covering in commercial or residential applications be certified as Class A ASTM-E84. Additional testing may be necessary. Consult your local building and safety codes for complete requirements. We recommend selecting a “Fire-Rated” panel fabric from one of Guilford of Maine’s many lines. With thousands of fabric to choose from, we are sure to have the style and color you are looking for. For availability, pricing and product information please contact your local Tech-Wall Inc. distributor. 

Selecting The Right Acoustical Fabric

The fabric you select can impact the acoustical properties of the Stretched-Fabric Wall System you specify. Fabrics made of 100% polyester with an open weave are the most transparent. These fabrics are often made from 100% recycled products. Many of the recommended Guilford of Maine fabrics are acoustically transparent, allowing your substrate to absorb sound. Applied backings can significantly reduce the NRC of a given fabric. 
Selecting A Tackable Fabric Although most fabrics work well with any of  AcousticalWallFabricmany track systems, when selecting fabric for use as a Tackable surface it is important to choose one that is identified as “Self Healing” or one with an open weave design. Vinyl Wall Coverings will show damage after a staple or tack is removed. 
Fabric Width and Lay-Out Fabric widths vary by style and are typically between 54” and 66”. To minimize waste, choose a fabric of the correct width for your design layout. Special care must be taken in the selection and installation of fabrics. Some fabrics have a directional weave. Others have patterns or repeats. These can affect your layout and even the quantity of fabric required.

        Please contact your  AcousticalWallFabric distributor/installer to ensure the correct materials are specified and used on your next project.

 Keep your Project on time! 

Lead times one week or less with our Stretched-Fabric Wall Systems.

 Most orders in stock and ready to ship.

Fast Lead times for large orders & realtime quotes 

Great Prices and fast Installation

 AcousticalWallFabric

 www.acousticalWallfabric.com

 Phone: 870-542-5126  Fax:(805)642-0330