Fitting guide Glossary of stretched canvas

A

Acoustics

The set of performance characteristics related to sound behaviour in a space. An acoustic stretch fabric absorbs sound waves and reduces reverberation to improve auditory comfort.

B

Blackout

Describes a fabric that completely blocks the passage of light. It is used to prevent any transparency, conceal an existing substrate or optimise the efficiency of a lighting system by avoiding light leaks.

Backlighting

A lighting system positioned behind a translucent fabric to diffuse even light and create an integrated luminous effect in the ceiling or wall.

F

Fleece Underlay

A textile underlayer placed behind the stretch fabric. The fleece can be acoustic, thermal or combined. It improves sound comfort and helps to correct irregularities in the substrate.

G

Gross Dimensions

Dimensions of the fabric including a safety margin (often 10 cm on each side) required for tensioning and handling during installation, before trimming.

J

Join / Seam

The assembly method between two panels of fabric. It can be achieved by clipping (using the ClipSWAL™ profile CSW 201 for stretch ceilings or the ClipSWAL™ profile CSW 108 Plus for stretch walls), welding or sewing, depending on the technology used.

L

Linear Metre

A unit of measurement corresponding to a length of one metre, regardless of the width of the material. It is used in particular to quantify profiles, fabrics or underlay fleeces.

N

Net Dimensions

The final and precise dimensions of the surface to be covered after installation. This is the actual measurement of your ceiling or wall from one profile to another.

P

Plenum

The void space located between the existing substrate (ceiling or wall) and the stretch fabric. It allows the integration of light fixtures, technical systems or a sub-frame, and contributes to acoustic performance.

Profile / Track

An element fixed around the perimeter of the wall or ceiling into which the stretch fabric is inserted. It forms the holding structure of the system and ensures a lasting finish.

S

Sound Absorption Coefficient ɑw

An indicator between 0 and 1 that evaluates the sound absorption performance of a covering. The closer it is to 1, the more absorbent the material.

Shadow Gap

A small aesthetic recessed gap of a few millimetres left visible around the perimeter between the wall and the fabric once installed. It provides a modern finish giving the impression that the ceiling is "floating".

Sub-frame

An intermediate structure installed within the plenum to support the profiles, integrate technical equipment or compensate for irregularities in the existing substrate.

Sound-transparent

Describes a fabric that allows sound to pass through the material in order to reach an absorber placed behind it. It is used for acoustic installations incorporating loudspeakers or absorptive treatments.

T

Trimming

The action of cleanly cutting the excess fabric after installation in order to achieve a neat and precise edge finish around the perimeter.

Translucent

A characteristic of a fabric that allows light to pass through while diffusing it. It is used in particular for backlit projects.

W

Width / Roll Width

The width of a fabric or roll material, measured from edge to edge. It determines the usable width available for manufacturing a stretch fabric and may influence the number of panels required.