Updated October 1, 2025
Choosing the right modular wall system can feel overwhelming. Do you need a long-term solution that integrates with your space — or a temporary wall system that installs in hours and reconfigures as projects evolve?
The truth is, the wrong choice can cost weeks of lost time, frustrated occupants, and blown budgets. Knowing whether your project requires permanent or temporary containment is the first step to avoiding delays and ensuring safety.
When evaluating modular wall systems, the first question to ask is: Are you looking for a permanent installation — or a flexible, temporary solution?
The answer will immediately narrow your options and help you focus on the wall system best suited for your space, project goals, and budget.
Permanent Modular Walls: Built to Last
For long-term use, modular walls are engineered to become part of the built environment — offering a polished aesthetic and integrated functionality.
Ideal for:
- Office interiors
- Long-term patient care areas
- Permanent subdivision of large, open spaces
What to Look For:
- Demountable systems with track-mounted installation
- Integrated features, like negative air panels or power/data
- Durable materials that match interior finishes
- Sound attenuation for privacy or noise control
These solutions are typically installed once and left in place for years. They often qualify as capital improvements and are custom-fit to the space.
Temporary Modular Walls: Speed, Flexibility, Reuse
Temporary wall systems are designed for fast, tool-free installation and easy reconfiguration — making them ideal for short-term or phased projects.
Common use cases:
- Occupied healthcare renovations
- Phased commercial remodels
- Construction in airports, data centers, or schools
What to Look For:
- Quick setup and portability
- Rental or purchase options
- Reusability across multiple projects
- Durability to withstand transport and daily jobsite wear
- Accessories like doors, panels, or negative air modules
High-performance temporary walls — like STARC’s RealWall™, LiteBarrier™, FireblockWall™, and StackBarrier™ — offer the benefits of traditional drywall, without the mess, waste, or delays.
| Feature | Permanent Modular Walls | Temporary Modular Walls |
| Installation Time | Weeks | Hours (100’ in under an hour with STARC) |
| Reusable | No – typically one-time install | Yes – reinstalled and reconfigured 100s of times |
| Flexibility | Low – fixed once installed | High – panels reconfigure for phased projects |
| Durability | Built for long-term use, but not designed to move | Built for repeated use across many projects |
| Noise Reduction | Varies by design | Up to 50% reduction (RealWall™) |
| Fire & Safety Options | Limited, building-dependent | Certified options: ASTM E84, ASTM E119, ICRA Class IV/V (STARC) |
| Best Use Case | Offices, permanent interior redesigns | Healthcare, airports, data centers, commercial spaces |
Which STARC Temporary Wall Fits Your Needs?
Whether you’re planning for long-term flexibility or short-term containment, STARC offers modular wall systems designed for your workflow — not against it.
- RealWall – Durable, sound-attenuating, Class IV/V, clean aesthetic
- LiteBarrier – Lightweight, cost-effective, fast deployment for less intensive projects
- FireblockWall – One-hour fire-rated, ICRA Class IV/V-compliant, ideal for healthcare and critical facilities
- StackBarrier – Tall, versatile containment solution (up to 40’), perfect for airports, atriums, or spaces with high ceilings
Need Help Choosing? Let’s Talk.
Not sure where to start? Our wall experts can help you compare STARC wall systems for your space, requirements, and budget.