While attending the recent AIA ’92 National Convention in Boston we took the opportunity to search the trade floor for new building materials with acoustical benefits. The following summarizes our finds:
Among the more promising displays were acoustical wall and finish materials that would provide a durable interior finish while helping solve acoustical concerns. Pyrok Inc. introduced a new acoustical wall and ceiling finish material that can be sprayed onto a ceiling, wall or open plenum. This new product will allow interior designs developed around open ceiling grids, or exposed ducts and beams, to have a cost effective acoustical treatment. The spray on material is relatively smooth when finished, has appearance of a concealed spine acoustical tile material, and can be installed for approximately the same price. One advantage of the Pyrok material is that it is pigmented thus eliminating visible flaking. A second advantage is the ability for freeform coverage of surfaces and constructions without the visible seams common of concealed spline materials. There is also a fire proof version available at a higher price.
Laticrete International, a manufacturer of a thin and thick set tile mortar system, was showing their new product systems. For a long time they have had a thin set mortar system that reduces fort-fall noise and other impact noise when compared to standard mortar systems.
Fabric & Architecture Magazine was giving away free issues. This magazine is a good source for fabric finish ideas. This magazine is a good source for fabric finish ideas. Fabric finishes, drapes, etc. are excellent acoustical finish materials. Fabri finishes allow the interior designer to develop a finish system which they feel meets the aesthetic design requirements for the project. At the same time, the light weight nature of the material allows the acoustical consultant to develop the acoustical room finish requirements in a cost effective manner with out infringing on the design requirements.
Porcelain Enamel Institute was displaying a product that would make a very durable wall finish material for “think tanks” and other rooms where the client wants “white boards” for walls. The disadvantage of the material is that it is a very hard, acoustically reflective surface, and may cause problems if the other room finishes are not carefully selected.
The AIA ’93 Convention will be held in Chicago. Hope to see you there! If you would like to find out more about these products, please contact us.