Three Popular Alternative Panel Options To Glass Panels

With all of the advantages that glass panels have in a partitioning wall, it is understandable why they are so popular. However, glass is not the only material that partitioning walls are comprised of. Not every business owner wants walls of glass in their office, not just because it costs a bit more but, in some cases, it is not the most appropriate.

For example, some technical areas, such as where a company server may be housed, can function perfectly well behind opaque panels, where wiring and technology can be hidden neatly from view. Of course, there is always a need for light, so glass panels are often incorporated in a temporary wall to allow as much natural light into a room as possible. This is particularly true in spaces occupied by personnel.

But glass has the distinction of being easy to complement, making it necessary only to match temporary office partitions, walls that create a completely new corridor or stylish reception screens with the overall office decor.

This means that the office decor has a greater influence on the composition and finish of the panel eventually chosen. It is only logical then that there is a variety of room partitions to choose from that are made of alternative materials, with plasterboard, composite and timber just three of those available.

Plasterboard

For most of us, the plasterboard option is probably the first that comes to mind. It is certainly the most commonly recognised and has been used for decades in the construction of light and temporary walls in residential, commercial and industrial projects. The acuteness of fire and safety regulations in the building trade means that technology has seen the simple plasterboard panel develop into an effective fire resistant item. It also provides good sound insulation and is stronger than in the past.

As a lightweight and very common material, this is also a very cost effective option, which is why it is still in high demand. The finishing can be easily tailored to suit the overall office design, while they can also be easily cut to fit any awkward section, or added to fit areas of greater than usual heights, such as in a warehouse.

However, they do have some draw backs, with plasterboard especially susceptible to moisture and humidity, and not suitable to be placed close to items that may produce extreme heat.

Composite

Another lightweight option, but this time manufactured using more than one material, thus the name composite. Generally, these panels are made of an aluminium frame, with an outer layer of plasterboard and the interior stuffed with paper egg crates. The result is a panel with a high degree of insulation, though all of the junctions do need to be sealed airtight to achieve the best results. In terms of sound insulation, however, this type of panel is not the best and is certain to allow a large amount of outside noise into the area within.

The composite option is probably the most popular choice, with the erection of such panelled walls very quick indeed, and is very easy to demount and relocate. The framework, which typically has a thickness of 50mm, can also accommodate windows or half glazing, making it rather versatile.

Timber

This is a highly attractive option, with a range of natural wood colours available to ensure the desired office style is accomplished. The fact that the wooden panels are manufactured in modules means that the erection of such a partition can be done in a short period of time. However, it is also possible to have tailor made, bespoke panels made to suit specific or unique interior designs.

Timber panels are sturdy in structure and can handle the inclusion of windows and glass panels. They are also very effective in terms of sound insulation, and are fire rated. However, it is the aesthetic effect that is most impressive, with dark and light wood colours available. It means an impressive impact can be made on prospective and existing clients alike.

As room partitions go, each of these three alternatives to glass panelling are highly efficient in their own right. And while the attraction that glass has as partitions walls or screens in an office is strong, style is maintained and even enhanced by the opaque option too.