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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.