TGB 101: Sonaspray: An integrated Acoustics Treatment System
Sonaspray is a fully integrated system. Its not a collection of third-party parts sources from various sources and sold under some spurious brand name. So why does that matter?
It matters for a number of important reasons. First of all, the process of spray-applying acoustic treatment to an exposed surface is quite a technical challenge. It requires a detailed understanding of cellulous fibres; the necessary properties of the glue need to ensure a successful and long lasting adhesion plus the knowledge to design and manufacture a machine which can accomplish the task in a reliable and repeatable manner. It’s a fully integrated system, end to end.
Reputation earned
SonaSpray is manufactured by International Cellulose Cooperation who are based in Houston, Texas. They have been in business for over 60 years. They are the leading manufacturer of spray-applied cellulose thermal insulation and acoustical finishes such as K-13, SonaSpray “fc”. There products are manufactured from a minimum 80% recycled materials and may contribute to satisfying credits under the LEED Points System.
This is a clear display of the commitment which ICC have invested in over there 60 years in business. If you are in the position of assessing, specifying or precuring spray applied acoustic treatments you can rest assured that the Sonaspray system will deliver on all of the necessary aspects of a given project. A fully integrated end to end service is the only way of guaranteeing a successful outcome.
So you are strongly advised to fully investigate the components and elements that make up an offer/proposal. Is it system or a collection of parts? Is it manufactured by one company or is it sources for a range of disconnected companies? The answers to these questions will give you a good sense of what you are dealing with. With a Sonaspray installation the buck stops with us.
Adhesion
The mixing of a purpose-developed glue achieves adhesion of the dry Sonaspray fibres. This glue has been developed by and manufactured by ICC, Sonasprays parent company in Houston, USA.
The interplay between the cellulose fibres and the adhesive is vital to give a quality finish.
All of this integrated development and manufacture takes place under the control of ICC. Third party’s are not involved at any stage of the integrated process.
The Equipment
Machines used to “blow-in” cellulose fibre have been used by some companies to install Sonaspray-like solutions. However, the specialist equipment that is used to spray Sonaspray is specific and designed to ensure a quality finish.
Access to this special equipment is exclusive to Sonaspray approved installers only.
The design of this expensive equipment is the result of 40 years plus of experience which ICC has in this specialist field.
Downsides and Warranty
The downside of using the wrong equipment can lead to significant problems down the road. Cellulose fibres can suffer from a lack of adhesion and will be likely to experience dropouts both during installation and post-completion.
An example of this is the fact that some manufacturers will only warranty their system for five years which points to their knowledge of problems with adhesion issues.
Sonaspray, on the other hand, will warranty adhesion indefinitely. (Assuming the building is well maintained)
Got A question Neal? Don’t Hesitate to get in touch.
