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Finishes

Finishes are the materials we select to and apply to the vertical and horizontal spaces in a room. They can be used to enhance a space or remain a neutral component depending on the desired outcome for a room. Careful selection of finishes can assist in improving acoustical environments, reducing glare, and  provide an overall perceived harmony in learning spaces.

Finishes include:

  • wall treatments
  • flooring
  • ceiling materials

WALLS

FLOORS

As a default, all classrooms should receive carpet* which balance the following requirements:

  • ADA compliance
  • Sustainable practices
  • Enhance acoustical environment by absorbing background noise
  • Durability
  • Stain resistance

Whenever possible select higher quality modular tiles and plan to store 10% attic stock for replacement.

  • Carpet underlayment should be considered for improving acoustical environment if/when transition into the room from adjacent corridors/rooms will allow for the increased heights [https://www.spectracf.com/acoustic-underlayment-explained/].
  • Carpet layout and pattern can aid in zoning a room and providing guidance for default furniture layouts when mobile furniture is provided.
  • Color palette should be harmonious with building/room aesthetics.

*       In classrooms with demonstration labs, sinks, high potential liquid spills as part of the curriculum [note science classrooms], vinyl tile flooring should be specified at the areas around the demonstration bench/sinks. Exceptions can also be made for classrooms on the first floor where direct access to outdoors pose higher impacts on the flooring.

Maintenance:

  • Carpets should be cleaned twice a year minimally or when incidental staining occurs

Replacement cycle:

  • Carpets should be replaced on a 10 year cycle. When modular carpet tiles are used evaluate for individual tile replacement on a yearly basis when cleaning efforts are insufficient to remove stains.

Sound absorption: when finishing floors above classrooms where sound transmission is an issue

  • ICC rating: min 50

CEILINGS

  • Acoustical environment
  • Ease of access to wiring and AV services
  • STC rating: 50+
  • Drop ceiling acoustical tiles specifications
    • NRC rating: min 80
    • CAC rating: min 35
    • Good products include Armstrong Calla and CertainTeed Ecophon Focus