Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Acoustics: Tectum vs Fabric-Covered Fiberglass Panels

[Laura Fitch, A.I.A. (lfitch]

Pioneer Valley used fiberglass panels ('Nubby" by armstrong) on our 
ceiling.  It is VERY effective.  I have been told more than once by an 
acoustical consultant that this product gives the best 
bang-for-the-buck.  It is not inexpensive, and I have not compared it 
acoustically or cost wise to Tectum, but I trust this engineer's 
recommendation.  I have also used it for classroom ceilings in school 
projects that this enginer consulted on.

I would highly recommend that you reconsider you decision to put it on 
the walls and not the ceiling.  My non-scientific understanding is that 
the ceiling is the most important surface to treat.  I recommend that 
you review the science behind high wall treatment before you accept this 
recommendation.

"Nubby" is "real white".  We installed ours with 1 " wide wood battens, 
painted white.  We used this treatment at Pathways Cohousing as well. 
They placed the battens at 4*" o.c. in both directions, which looks 
really nice.  Our have never gotten soiled, but how could they?  The 
ceiling is out of reach.

Sharon Villines wrote:

> Previously on this list and from people who went to the cohousing
> conference, Tectum is the big rave in acoustical paneling in CH dining
> rooms. Our acoustical person doesn't recommend it because its ratings are
> lower than fiberglass panels. We are doing walls and not the ceiling but the
> walls are high -- not within touchable distance.
>
> Does anyone have experience with both? Can you compare them?
>
> We want "real" white panels and have yet to find a fabric in anything but
> pale colors, very pale, but not white.
>
> Do the fabric panels last "forever" or become soiled with time. I know this
> depends on conditions but generally, do people plan to replace them in
> particular periods of time?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Sharon

--
Laura Fitch, A.I.A.
Principal Architect

KRAUS-FITCH ARCHITECTS, INC.
110 Pulpit Hill Rd.
Amherst, MA  01002
413-549-5799
413-549-7918 (fax)

lfitch [at] krausfitch.com




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