Brad Weber wrote on Sun, 10 August 2008 07:03 |
Chad Johnson wrote on Fri, 08 August 2008 15:40 | Everything is fire rated and paintable to match any decor with out hurting fire or acoustical performance.
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Tectum has a Marketing Bulletin specifically on this topic where they define using one specific paint that comes in 50 gallon drums and very specific environmental conditions, sprayer characteristics, etc. for the application. They also state that the panels should be painted in place and brush and roller application are specifically not recommended. The fact is that it is quite easy to adversely affect the performance if one does not follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
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Yes Brad, that is a good point. The sprayer PSI etc is speced by Tectum. I have spoken with Tectum reps about the painting procedures and their instructions to me confirmed regular latex paint will work fine in most applications (as has been my experience). They also offer paint advice where mildew/mold is a problem. A couple of coats of regular latex should not affect acoustic properties and this is done everywhere they are used. However, when giving advice online, I think it's best to go by the book and mention the protocols as outlined by the manufacturer, thanks for pointing that out.
When applying them to a wall in an existing building where overspray is an issue, IMHO, I have found painting them first is best. Again, I was told the reason they are recommended to be painted on the wall is because they are somewhat brittle and can flake away on the edges while being flexed and lifted and fastened into place. I found that to be accurate and that's why I suggested touching up with a roller/brush once they are put up (and spraying first).
You are also very correct in your thoughts on blanket statements are not helpful. There are many ways to address acoustics. Placements, bandwidth, absorption, diffusion, durability, cosmetics, material cost, labor cost, "fasten-ability" are all factors and no one method is best in all cases. Tectum is just one approach. I've had good luck with the product and it worked well in four specific installations I've done in the past few years.
I enjoy these threads because I am always trying to find innovative and differing approaches to acoustical issues. What are some of the absorption approaches you have found work (with a good balance of cosmetics, durability, cost, labor, etc)?