3) What is NRC? Noise Reduction Coefficient
It is the average sound absorption coefficient measured at four frequencies: 250, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 Hz expressed to the nearest integral multiple of 0.05. It rates the ability of a ceiling, wall system or other construction to absorb sound. NRC is the fraction of sound energy, when averaged over all angles of direction and from low to high sound frequencies, that is absorbed and not reflected. NRC ranges from 0 (concrete floor) to 1.00 (high performance acoustical products) . For most applications such as conference rooms, classrooms, lobby areas and where moderate noise reduction is needed .50 is adequate. Other applications such as recording studios, lecture halls, auditoriums, congregation halls and court rooms, a .85 may be better suited. We can assist in this important preliminary decision.

4) What is STC? Sound Transmission Class
STC - Sound Transmission Class is where sound reduction from one side of a barrier to the other is rated. This can be very important to first reduce the sound transmitting through walls or ceilings when working to achieve a higher N.R.C. in an area. Sound dampening materials can be applied to walls or ceilings to reduce the overall noise bleed through. 

5) What is the best overall layout? The most common and cost effective layout is to run your panels horizontally (railroaded)) on the wall. They can be run as long as the entire wall if desired and as high as the ceiling. An intermediate joint will be needed when the width of the fabric is reached, usually 54”-66”. When large quantities of coverage are being used it is recommended to keep in mind your cutoffs, in other words; can the cutoff from one panel cover another??? Many times a slight panel dimension change can save a tremendous amount of cost in labor and materials. See our typical layouts page for more information.

6) Are we better off with 1/2" or 1" thick panels?
This depends on your needs, tackable, acoustical, magnetic or simply aesthetic.  ½" panels will usually be satisfactory; with a typical NRC of .45 - .55 we can normally design a room with excellent acoustics. When faced with increased acoustical challenges or limitations on how much wall surface is available for coverage, 1" panels with a typical NRC of .80 - .85 is recommended.  We often recommend to increase the coverage area with ½" panels before going to 1" panels, the reasoning behind this is to cover most of the hard surfaces that contribute to bad acoustics, such as; drywall which has an NRC of only .05 and is acoustically reflective. Whatever the situation we can create a system that fits your project and budget needs.

7) How is the fabric held into place if it is not bonded to the core?
FABRICMATE® Systems uses a “track system”. The fabric is rolled and held in the track’s jaws, or hidden channels. The jaws are strong enough to firmly hold the fabric in place without sagging for years while allowing the fabric to be easily removed and replaced if needed. This process is similar to re-screening a screen. Panels are most commonly run horizontally for the best look and cost effectiveness.

8) Are fabrics durable enough to be used as a wallcovering?
Yes, many fabrics are very durable, and have been proven to stand up to daily abuse encountered in high traffic areas such as, hallways, classrooms, theaters and other public places for years. Many fabrics are manufactured from synthetics or recycled from plastic bottles, these surfaces actually hold up better than paint or other finishes, and can have substantial savings over the long haul.

9) Do tackable panels have any acoustical benefits?
Yes, FABRICMATE® Systems ½" tackable panels have an NRC of .40 - .55 or higher.  If enough coverage is used the noise level in classrooms, student housing, offices and other areas are greatly reduced, making for a more productive working, learning and living environment, as well as enhancing the speech privacy.

10) Are fabrics installed on a wall a fire hazard?
No, for commercial applications all fabrics 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. Please contact our technical support team if there are any concerns with the fabrics of your choice.

11) What if a panel gets damaged or we want to remodel?
The unique design of FABRICMATE® Systems hidden channel allows for the easy removal and replacement of the fabric covering without replacing the core or track, similar to re-screening a screen. The fabric can be replaced at a fraction of the cost of new panels or re-painting.

12) Can we use our own maintenance personnel to install new panels?
Yes, these systems are designed to be easily installed by anyone. So whether you decide to use an experienced installer or have your own personnel install, you make the choice, based on your needs.

13) Do you have a Warranty or Service Plan?
YES. All FABRICMATE® Systems panels and products have a 5-Year Warranty and a 3 or 15 Year "NO COST" fabric replacement program (FRP). 

14) Can sewn seams be used?
The use of sewn seams is not recommended.  There may be a weak spot along the seam, it may start to pull apart and the salvage will leave an unsightly bump and hinder the ability to use a tack or magnet. It is best to track the desired joint if possible. When seaming is desired or required, the FS-2000 ultrasonic welded micro-joint should be used. Please call our Technical support team for more details.

15) What is the cost of the FABRICMATE® Systems?
The type of fabric, core material, wall surface, design layout, and size of the job are all factors that will determine cost. A complex layout that has many obstacles, such as, windows or electrical outlets will add to the cost. Panel height, layout, vertical verses horizontal joints, and the substrate to which the panels are installed on (drywall, stucco, block, concrete, etc.) are all factors that can have an effect on the amount of labor and materials needed. It is recommended to contact our technical support team or use our on-line quote form for advice on your specific needs and budget requirements

16) Are there any fabrics that cannot or should not be used?
Yes, fabrics that are translucent will show the core and track underneath it. Very heavy backed fabrics or wall carpet will not fit into the tracks jaws. Fabrics that do not have a Class A (1) fire rating cannot be used in commercial applications. It is recommended to contact Fabricmate technical support to discuss the suitability of your desired fabrics. 

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

18) Are there any problems with un-square or wavy walls?
No, FABRICMATE® site-fabricated systems 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.

19) What can be done to keep costs down?
By contacting our technical support team during the planning stages of your project, and assisting you with choosing the right products, design layout, and fabric selection. We can help you 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 and layout that can be used to  keep cost down.

20) What edge profiles are available?
Square or beveled profiles are available for both outside and mid-wall (intermediate) applications. A variety of trims (wood, metal, stone etc.) can be incorporated into the design to achieve a custom look.

21) What thicknesses are available?
FABRICMATE® Systems comes in ½" and 1" thick track profiles. A thickness of over 1" is accomplished with the use of shims or other methods.

22) Can the system be installed on a ceiling?
Yes FABRICMATE® Systems products are 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. Hanging baffles or clouds can also a great solution to large areas with acoustical problems.

23) What sizes are FABRICMATE® Systems panels available in?
FABRICMATE® site-fabricated and pre-assembled I.P.S. systems are only limited by the width of your fabrics, the length can be as long as you want. 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. Whole wall coverage or widths great than your fabrics are achieved with the use of intermediate joints or other trims where both panels meet.   

24) What kind of shapes & designs can be accomplished?
Almost any shape or design can be accomplished, geometric shapes, letters, numbers, circles, logos, custom printing, and artwork. View the photo gallery for creative ideas.

25) Can concave / convex walls be accomplished?
Yes, FABRICMATE® products will follow the curves on most wall surfaces. This gives a clean, smooth look, especially when run horizontally railroaded.