Selecting a Fabric

Selecting a Fabric

Whisper Walls does not manufacture fabric other than the WhisperSpan™ line. When selecting a fabric, it is best to work with a sales representative from the leading panel fabric manufacturers who can provide style and color choices based on these general guidelines.

Panel dimensions are limited by the width of the fabric selected.  One inch of fabric is tucked at seam locations to secure it properly.

All Whisper Wall stretching system track components are designed to securely hold fabric without the use of adhesives, nails, tacks or tape. There are thousands of fabrics in different styles, patterns and colors that work well but some do not. When selecting a fabric, comply with these items:

Confirm Class A rating in accordance with:

  • ASTM-E84

Fibers that are stable and work well:

  • Polyester
  • Polyolefin

Fibers that work but may require additional stabilization:

  • Cotton
  • Silk
  • Wool

Fibers that are unstable and should be avoided:

  • Nylon
  • Rayon
  • Viscose

Acoustical panels should be faced with an open weave, unbacked fabric that allows air to pass through it easily.  If not, it should be avoided.

Panels being used as a tackable surface should be faced with a fabric constructed with a plain weave from durable fibers like polyester and should have self-healing characteristics. Satin weaves are not recommended.

Some light colored or lightweight fabrics may be visually transparent in certain lighting conditions. They diminish visual appeal by allowing the panel components to be seen.  When selected, these fabrics will require a liner fabric and increase installation costs.

Knit backings and lightweight acrylic backings can be used with success but acoustical performance may be diminished. Paper backed fabrics do not work.

The Whisper Wall stretching system track allows for the precise matching of both patterns and repeats at seam locations. In general, smaller patterns and repeats reduce waste and installation cost.