“Wall Effectiveness” refers to the degree to which a movable wall system fulfills its intended functions including providing physical and visual separation (privacy), acoustic qualities that ensure a minimum of sound transference and aesthetic appeal. Movable wall effectiveness is measured by its ability to adapt the space, ease of use, durability, support diverse activities within the space, integration with the building design and maintain acoustic and visual performance.
These are all characteristics and features that must be considered about the proposed movable wall systems prior to its selection and use. It is most difficult and expensive to change or modify movable wall systems after they are installed if they do not perform as expected. Let us look at some of these needed movable wall features and qualities.
Acoustic Performance
Other than price the acoustical performance of the movable wall system is by far the most common consideration when choosing a system. The ability of a movable wall system to stop the transfer of sound is indicated by its STC. This number is determined by a specific ASTM Laboratory conducted sound that all manufacturer’s use. The higher the STC number the better the ability to stop sound transfer. An STC of 50 to 55 is recommended (In general 1 STC unit is equal to 1 Db of sound pressure level) in all applications. Equally important as the STC number is “when was the test conducted?” It should be current within 10 years as sound test procedures have changed. If the wall is ineffective in stopping sound after the fact and not up to your expectations, there is little that can be done to the wall to make it more acoustically effective. Choose wisely.
Durability and Structural Integrity
Ensure that the proposed movable wall system (panels, support system) is manufactured from robust materials and backed up by warranties that will guarantee longevity. With proper care a movable wall system will function for exceptionally extended periods of time. Panel frames are made from aluminum or steel (aluminum is lighter, less structural support required, easier to move panels)), track either aluminum or steel depending on layout, skins with or without steel laminated to gypsum board depending on STC (steel skins preferable as they are more resistant to damage), skins either welded to the frame (disadvantage is they cannot be changed if irretrievably damaged and a new panel must be purchased) or mechanically fastened (riveted, faces can be changed in the field). The system must have the proven ability to withstand impact forces, movement, cleaning, and environmental factors. Ensure that the overhead structural support system (not the responsibility of the movable wall supplier) is sufficiently strong to support the movable wall without any deflection.
Aesthetics
If possible, choose the wall covering from the manufacturer’s standards (vinyl, carpet, fabric) as they are proven products re durability and application to the panel faces. If damaged, replacement materials are in stock and can be supplied quickly. The primary concern from Interior designers is that the standard materials may not fit into the color scheme of the project. Manufacturers can provide and install Customers Own Material (COM), plastic laminates. Wood, wood veneer, uncovered for application in the field, murals etc. To ensure satisfaction and effectiveness consider choosing one of the manufacturer’s standards.
Installation
Proper installation is mandatory for the effectiveness of the movable wall system. The system is only as good as its installation. Ensure that the movable wall supplier is using factory trained experienced installers. Ask for a copy of the manufacturer’s installation instructions before installation begins. Become familiar with what is required and ensure that it does happen through the course of the project. The overhead track must be level throughout its run with no deflection. The floor must be level. Look for flanking paths (areas where sound can leak around the movable wall system). Have them sealed.
Ease of Operation and User Training
Before you select, decide & purchase a movable wall system, visit one or more of the manufacturer’s projects to view and move some panels around. Lighter weight panels (aluminum frames) are easier to move. Track systems come in two basic designs – right angle turn systems (usually aluminum track) and switch and curve systems (usually steel track). Each have its own qualities with a steel switch and curve system (single panel configuration) easier to move and especially store the panels in the stack area. With a paired panel configuration steel and aluminum track systems are equally effective. Do not use a “sliding disc” or “puck” type track and trolley system. Bottom line – Get out there and push some panels.
Maintenance Requirements
Moveable wall systems are dynamic. They are designed to be moved multiple times a day. As such they are subject to varying forces, wear & tear, that will require regular and proper maintenance to keep them effective. Issues may include mechanical failure of components such as track, hinges, seals and locking mechanisms. Without maintenance these components may become damaged, worn, or misaligned. Damage to the panel finish will inevitably occur. Without regular maintenance panel finishes may become unnecessarily worn, scratched, chipped, or faded detracting from the overall aesthetics of the systems. Track systems must be regularly inspected to keep the system effective. Effective operation requires stable and secure connections to the support system. Over time anchors, brackets and other miscellaneous support components may become looser resulting in track misalignment or even instability of the overall system, thus seriously compromising the effectiveness of the system to function as desired.
Conclusion
An operable wall system is a significant investment. If the consumer has a clear idea of what is desired in terms of performance and effectiveness prior to purchase, then they can do much to ensure that their desires will be achieved after installation and continued long term use.
