Broadway Acoustic Panels FAQ

What makes Broadway panels special?

Broadway panels are easy to put up, will last for years and they are very affordable. For many, these attributes make them special.

What is the difference between Broadway and the Owens-Corning 705 panels?

We use the same 6lb density glass wool as the Owens Corning 705 and therefore will have similar acoustical performance. Owens-Corning only produce fibreglass bat, they do not treat the edges or cover the panel with a fabric. For the most part, regional companies buy the glass wool and cover it themselves. This product is rarely tested for fire safety. At Primacoustic, we test the complete panel to attain class-A designation.

Some producers recommend using larger panels. Are these better?

Yes and no. the advantage of a larger panel is of course more surface area which means more absorption. These are less expensive to produce as you only have to cut, fit and glue the edges around four sides. Although the perceived value is high; there are several hidden costs: The first is freight… shipping large panels requires using flat bed trucks which of course adds tremendous cost. The second is labor. To install a larger panel, you need two or three people just to hold it and you need to rent a large hydraulic lift to get everyone working together to install each panel. Broadway panels are designed so that a single person can handle a panel and do the installation.

How do you create the look of a large seamless panel?

For larger surface coverage, multiple square-edge panels are grouped together using push-on impalers. This gives the impression of a large seamless panel without the high installation cost associated with shipping and mounting huge acoustic panels.

Why do you only offer three colors?

To keep costs down, we only offer a limited selection. This is very important when you consider that each panel is available in about 20 different variations each with different size, thickness and edge treatment.

Can I re-cover the panel with another fabric?

Yes. This is easy to do using a 3M spray-on adhesive. Simply put the fabric face down on a able, apply a light spray, and then place the Broadway panel on top. Trim the fabric and wrap following the same pattern as was done at the factory.

Will changing the fabric alter the performance?

So long as you employ a breathable fabric, the performance will not change. If you wrap the panel with a heavy vinyl, then high frequencies will reflect and you will absorb more bass.

If glass-wool is so much better, why do some folks still buy acoustic foam?

Mostly old habits — some sales people have no idea that better options exist. Once you check out the specs, you would likely never buy foam. The adhesive also messes up the wall surface and fixing it can often cost more than the panels!

If an acoustic foam passes the C117 spec, does this make it suitable for use in public places?

No. The C117 spec is used to test foam used for stuffing chairs, beds and couches — it has absolutely nothing to do with the building code.

I have heard that some acoustic panels emit a smell. What about Broadway panels?

Some people are more sensitive to odours than others, so this is really a personal matter. However, there is truth to this… Whether you are producing panels from urethane foam panels or glass wool, the processes involve using adhesives, solvents and chemicals during manufacturing and curing. Panels are then often packaged before the curing is complete. It is therefore likely that when they are unpacked, they may emit an odour. Good news is that it usually dissipates in a few days. If you are sensitive to odours, simply put the panels in the garage to air out for a few days.

My friend bought some Owens-Corning 703 glass wool and made his own acoustic panels. After some time they started to dust. Will this occur with Primacoustic Broadway panels?

No. The problem that your friend experienced is common on self-made panels. Folks will buy glass wool panels without properly encapsulating the panels or treating the edges. After a while, the bass frequencies will cause the glass to vibrate and wiggle out causing dust. To prevent this from occurring, Broadway panels are encapsulated with micromesh and then the edges are chemically treated with a bonding resin to seal them. We have been selling Broadway panels for over 5 years and do not know of a single occurrence regarding dusting.

Can I hang Broadway panels like a baffle or acoustic flag?

Broadway panels are only covered on one side. So unless they are high, out of the way, the may seem unsightly. We now produce a product called the Saturna which is a baffle designed to capture ambient energy. This is a hanging baffle.

Can I hang Broadway panels like an acoustic cloud?

Yes of course. In fact we offer some handy hardware to make this easy. All you do is screw it in like a corkscrew and you are set to go!

Can I cut the Broadway panels?

Yes. Just keep in mind that if you are going to cut them down to size, you will need to recover the edge. Simply pull back the fabric, cut and then glue the fabric back on using a spray on 3M adhesive.

How do you clean Broadway panels?

A light vacuum is usually all that is needed. If your panels will be in a high traffic area, we recommend using Scotch Guard. This way, wiping them off with a moist cloth will help keep them looking clean and sharp!

Can I custom order sizes?

No, not unless the quantity is quite significant. Because we mass produce to keep costs down, making small runs of custom panels is difficult. Please consult a Primacoustic sales associate should you have a special need.

Some panel specifications show greater than 100% absorption. Is this possible?

The sound absorption coefficient test was designed to measure surface absorption. When panels are tested, sound can also enter the panel on the sides. This results in more than 100% absorptive area and the >100% spec is achieved.

My budget is tight; can I add panels as I can afford them?

Absolutely! In fact many studios take this approach. This allows them to listen to the room and then make buying decisions based on the most prevalent problems.

We have sprinklers in our facility. Do we need Class-A fire rated panels?

Maybe… each municipality has different regulations. For fire, they are usually more stringent in large cities and high-rises. Always consult your local building authority or insurance underwriter. This way you do not have to worry. All Broadway panels are Class-A tested and safe.

Will Broadway panels fade over time?

Like any material, the fabric can fade if subjected to UV, sunlight and oxygen. But the fading will be infinitely less than the fading associated with acoustic foam.

I am on a very limited budget. Does Primacoustic sell factory seconds?

Yes. We occasionally get panels returned due to shipping damage, factory seconds or returns from trade show displays. These are sold ‘as is’ at a discount. Send us an email if you are interested and we can send you the latest list of available inventory.