Evaluation of Project Site
The installer must have a site that is conducive for a safe, proper, and successful installation. Any discrepancies or concerns should be addressed to the Architect or GC prior to commencement. Points to be considered are:
- Support system (Steel beam, Wood, Concrete slab, Glue-lam etc.): must be confirmed by others as capable of supporting the track and panel system without deflection and be level as per movable wall manufacturers conditions. Any deflection or movement in the building’s structure can compromise the wall’s performance and operation.
- Floor: Confirm that the floor will be level as per movable wall manufacturers tolerances for optimum performance. The surface where the base seals should be finished in such a way that does not interfere with the bottom acoustic seals. A “flat” smooth surface is recommended. Floor should be level within ½” across entire opening width.
- End Walls (Where movable wall system meets the building structure): Confirm that blocking or a support system is provided directly behind the points where the movable wall initial and final meeting points occur at both end wall conditions. The end walls must be plumb and true to prevent misalignment and ensure a tight seal. End walls should plumb within 1/8”.
(Note: The overhead support system, the floor and both end walls should form a perfect rectangular opening when completed).
- Flanking Paths: Anticipate routes through which sound will travel around the partition. The most common are Floor (a carpeted or uneven floor. Is the underside of the floor hollow?), Overhead (No acoustic bulkhead extending from movable track system to underside of structure with an STC equal to that of the movable wall), Ductwork (penetrating overhead bulkhead without the use of duct silencers), Permanent walls (Check for use of chair rails, wall jambs, molding).
(Note: After movable wall installation, to ensure the best acoustical integrity possible, ensure that all ceiling tiles are properly sealed, and acoustic insulation is laid in as a minimum over the area where the movable wall and the ceiling meet. Use or recommend acoustical caulking at all wall jambs, piping, adjacent electrical outlets, door frames, duct work and other areas where sound may leak.)
Installation of Overhead Support System (Track and associated items)
Each manufacturer offers different track systems in varied profiles and materials. However, the way these unique support systems are installed does not vary. Movable Wall support systems are most often suspended from an independent steel beam using hangar rods. Other ways are mounted direct to the steel beam (bolted or welded), directly mounted to a “wood header” and suspended from a concrete slab.
Steel Beam (Use of Hangar Rods)
Ensure that the steel member from which the Movable wall system is suspended is independent and no other building services or such will also be attached to this beam. The movable wall supplier will provide to the structural steel contractor a “punching template” that indicates where they require holes to be drilled for the insertion of hangar rods from which the track system will be suspended. Ensure that these holes are present. Hangar rods, hangar brackets etc. shall be installed as per manufacturer’s instructions. Track shall be installed to the lower end of the hangar rods ensuring proper alignment and secure attachment.
Advantages: Strength & stability. Stable & durable. Flexible allowing for height adjustment making it easier to level the track and smooth panel operation. Can be used with various ceiling types and building structures. The most common system used.
Steel Beam (Attaching Direct)
Rather than suspend the track using hangar rods the track is welded or “bolted” directly to the steel beam.
Advantages: Permanent & secure. Strong immovable connection ideal for very heavy panel systems. No potential for loosening. Minimizes the space taken up. Minimal maintenance.
Direct Mount with Lag Bolts to a Wood Header
Ensure that pilot holes for the lag bolts are drilled in locations as provided by the moveable wall manufacturer. Inspect the header to ensure there is no cracking or deformation of the wood header. The track shall ultimately be attached to the wood header using suitably sized lag bolts.
Advantages: Ease of Installation. Straightforward installation requiring fewer components. Cost effective. Used with lighter weight systems.
Attaching Track to a Concrete Slab with Inserts and Hangar Rods
Ensure that suitably sized holes are drilled into the concrete slab for the insertion of concrete anchors. Hangar rods will then be inserted into the concrete anchors and rigidly attached to the slab. The movable track shall then be attached to the hangar rods.
Advantages: Strong Anchoring. Secure and stable. Allows for height adjustments. Long term durability managing significant loads without deformation. High load capacity. Easy installation.
Each of these methods for hanging movable wall systems has distinct advantages and disadvantages influenced by factors such as structural support requirements, cost considerations and desired flexibility. The choice of method should be guided by the specific needs of the project including load-bearing requirements, budget constraints and potential for future modifications.
