A thoughtfully researched and precisely specified operable wall system can revolutionize space utilization and boost functionality. To secure the best value, superior quality, and a dependable operable wall partner, architects and specifiers should carefully evaluate several key factors. This article serves as a guide, outlining crucial considerations—from product attributes and performance capabilities to long-term support—when assessing potential operable wall suppliers.
What a specifier wants to see and know
- Proven performance: Obtain from your peers their experiences with the supplier. Recommendations and industry feedback play a crucial role in shortlisting suppliers.
- Photos & case studies: Names & photos of installed movable wall systems like the application you are designing. Names of contacts at these projects. Published case studies with information and photos.
- Videos and demonstrations: Videos of walls in action (You Tube?) as well as real-life on-site demonstrations of wall systems. Visit a site and move some panels.
- Ease of specifications: Are the product specifications current and accurately describe the desired product? Are they in the desired format? Will the supplier prepare a customized specification and drawings?
- Panel materials and finishes: Obtain “real” samples of proposed covering materials after color selection is determined from swatch cards. Are the materials durable and meet the design/aesthetic intent?
- Experience and reputation: How long has the supplier been in business? What is history? AS important – how long has the proposed product been in production and successful use?
- Overall appearance: Will the system complement the overall design aesthetic? Does it portray a “high quality” product? What is the appearance of panel meeting joints: tight and clean if a “fine line” or clean attractive trim if a “protective edge trim system” is used?
- Financial stability: Are the supplier and its local installing distributor financially stable and able to complete the project during the determined timeline?
- Communication and responsiveness: Determine how communication with the manufacturer and his installing distributor will be conducted. Who to call for answers, deliveries, issues of any kind etc.?
- Durability and Longevity (Panel Construction): Panel frames should be high-strength extruded aluminum or roll-formed steel. Mechanically fastened or welded. Panel skins should consist of a substrate of minimum ½” gypsum board with an exterior steel sheet of minimum 22 Ga. steel. Actual skin composition is often dictated by the desired STC value but for durability all panels should have an exterior steel skin.
- Warranties/Service/Maintenance: Minimum 5 years on panels and components. 10 years on all track and support systems. Review manufacturers’ warranty, availability of after sales service and history of supplier responsiveness. Look for “condition” Manufacturers should offer a predetermined maintenance plan that owners should consider.
- Independent Testing: All acoustic, structural testing and any other testing should be conducted in an independently certified testing facility in accordance with the applicable ASTM test procedure. Testing conducted in the manufacturer’s facility and/or by the manufacturer should not be accepted.
- Acoustic Performance: Manufacturers must provide verified STC and NRC values and their testing methods. Look at dates of tests. Compare description of proposed product to description of product in the sound test document. Look past the number to ensure desired acoustic results.
- Installation Expertise: Product should be installed by a factory manufacturer trained installer. The end results of any operable wall system are only as good as the installation. Ask to see the qualifications and experience of proposed installation company.
Positive Signs to look for and ask for regarding an Operable Wall Supplier
- Proven history: How long has the manufacturer been in business? How long has the proposed product been around? The company may have been around for a long time, but you should be more interested in the product.
- A strong portfolio of completed projects: Ask to see names and locations of installed projects of a comparable size and application. Contact information. If nearby go to site and visually inspect.
- Case studies: Ask for some published case studies of similar projects.
- Testimonials and references: References from recognizable & prominent Architects and users that have specified and used the systems are invaluable.
- Certifications: Proof of all acoustic, structural data and other required testing.
- Fire ratings: If wall must be fire rated, ask to see copy of fire test.
- Panel weights and sizes: Wall should not be heavy as to cause support deflection. Panels should be maximum 48” wide to obtain yard goods more easily for recovering if needed. Confirm with structural engineer how systems will be suspended, and that deflection will be 0”.
- Ease of Operation: Ask to visit an installed system and push some panels especially in and out of stack area.
- Sustainability & green standards: Discuss sustainability commitment by manufacturer. LEED. Green etc.
Negative Warning Signs to look for regarding a Proposed Manufacturer
- Lack of References
- Negative selling – putting down competition
- Poor customer reviews
- Limited Warranties
- Inconsistent Quality
- Pushy sales techniques
- Lack of transparency
- Poor history of communication
- Unwillingness to provide samples
- Unverified Performance Claims
- Poor or no after sales support
- Pricing is much lower than other proposals
Alternate sources of Information
- Websites
- Industry Associations
- Architectural publications
- Product Databases
Conclusion
The correct, movable wall supplier should be a partner in creating adaptable, high performances. By carefully considering factors like acoustics, reliability, warranties and long-term support, Architects can with confidence specify solutions that deliver immediate and lasting value. When the correct supplier is chosen based on investigation the walls will do more than just move – they will perform.
