Operable partitions are structures used to divide a room or space into smaller segments. They come in a wide array of styles and sizes based on your interior space and sound control needs. In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, our operable partitions experts have assembled information about the different product types and which may be best for your application.
Brands of operable partitions
For years, the dominant industry players for operable partition manufacturing were Kwik-Wall and Hufcor. Within the last few years, Kwik-Wall acquired North American licensing rights for Hufcor products, making them the clear industry leader.
Applications for operable partitions
There are many reasons why buildings may use operable partitions. Hotels and conference centers may use movable walls to divide up ballrooms or other large spaces and make them available to more groups of users. Effective movable walls also provide sound insulation and control, ensuring noise doesn’t bleed from one partitioned area to the adjoining.
STC stands for Sound Transmission Class. Some Kwik-Wall operable partitions can achieve an STC rating up to 65, which creates very effective sound control.
Specifying the size of your operable partitions
Every operable partition order is completely custom-manufactured. Simply tell us the dimensions of the partition that you need, and we can get your unique solution installed quickly.
How are movable walls hung or supported?
Although it depends on the type of operable partition you specify, most types are ceiling-hung and require structural support. For every model except glass walls, though, Kwik-Wall offers a self-support system that does not require additional structural support.
When not deployed, movable walls are folded into a “storage pocket” that, when closed, can blend in with the rest of the room.
Finish options for operable partitions
When specifying your order, you can choose from a variety of finish options. The most common is a heavy duty vinyl wall covering, which we offer in over 40 different patterns and colors. You can also select cloth, high pressure laminate, marker boards, acoustical cloth coverings and many other finishes.
Types of Kwik-Wall operable partitions
Flat panels
Also called Airwalls, folding panel partitions, or room dividers, flat panels typically offer the best acoustical separation. They are also the most space and cost efficient partition option.
Flat panels are available in flexible layout and storage configurations, and it takes very little time or manual effort to set up your partition, allowing you to transform your spaces easily. When specifying, you can select manually operated single or hinged panels, or automated electric operable walls.
Kwik-Wall’s Series 3000 steel panels are 4” thick and extremely durable, designed to fit openings up to 30 feet tall and with unlimited widths. Series 3000 panels can achieve up to 56 STC.
Series 2000 panels are best for shorter installations. These are 3” thick, but can still achieve STC ratings from 42 to 51 and are the most cost-effective operable wall choice.
Since Kwik-Wall became the Hufcor North American licensee, Hufcor 600 Series partitions are also available through Kwik-Wall, offering rugged panel construction, a smooth track, excellent operational and acoustical performance, and complex layouts up to 60 feet tall.
Glass walls
For transparent space separation solutions, Kwik-Wall offers Luminous Glass Walls. You can select either a full glass wall system, or add glass panel inserts to a steel-framed 3000 or 2000 Series operable wall project.
Luminous Glass Walls feature robust sound control, panel automation, smart glass, and multiple layout, configuration, and finish options. They are a high-performing and versatile solution to your space division needs.
Luminous contains a variety of glass wall types to choose from, including:
- Stella: Offers 50 STC sound control, requires no floor track, and is available in manual operation, semi-automatic and programmable, or fully automatic configurations. Multiple frame finishes are available, and you can select switchable smart glass for added versatility. Panel heights are available up to 14’9” tall.
- Luna: Luna panels are aluminum-framed and offer 43 STC sound control. Choose between top track supported or floor supported models, with up to 9’10” opening height and tempered, laminated, or switchable smart glass options.
- Ilona: Ilona is the thinnest glass wall option available, at just 1-⅜” thick, while still providing 35 STC sound control. Ilona panels are available as top-supported individual panels, pivoting panels on single carriers, or floor-supported continuously hinged panel trains.
- Ava: Ava panels provide visual continuity and an appealing aesthetic, but very little acoustical separation. They are secured by horizontal top and bottom rails, and can be deployed quickly, quietly, and with little effort.
- Mata: Mata panels combine wood trim with glass panels. Choose between red oak and maple or poplar wood options, with a variety of stail colors. Mata panels are sleek and slim, at only 1-¾” thick, and require no floor track as they are overhead track-supported.
Accordion doors
Accordion partitions are the fastest and simplest movable wall solution. They can be easily pulled across an opening and latched into place, making them a great choice for spaces that will frequently need to be partitioned.
The VL series is available in 35, 38, and 40 STC sound control. They are manually operated, with a variety of finish options, an easy grip handle, and a built-in air release system that allows for smoother operation.
The MK series is non-acoustic accordion partitions, perfect for applications where only visual separation is needed.
Kwik-Wall self support system
Some buildings are unable to support the weight of an operable partition from the existing overhead building structure. For flat panels and accordion walls, Kwik-Wall offers a self support system called Unispan, which eliminates the need to bring in structural engineering firms, steel beam suppliers, or fabricators for your operable partitions installation.
Unispan is pre-engineered to carry the exact capacity needed for your Kwik-Wall system. The solution features structural aluminum posts that can be installed against opening walls or behind the finish sheetrock. Partition weight is transferred to the floor via the support post connections. Unispan self support can be fully recessed into the ceiling, partially recessed, or installed below the ceiling based on your structural needs and aesthetic preferences.
Kwik-Wall also offers a field-assembled overhead structural support system called Kwik-Span, for applications where Unispan may not meet project requirements.
How to select your operable partition solution
Not sure which type of movable wall is best for you? Have questions about finish type, acoustical properties, manual vs automatic, or any other customization options? The Nettles team has deep experience with all types of operable partitions, and will work with you to specify and install the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to get started!
