Frequently Asked Questions

What are STARC Systems’ RealWall™ panels made of?

The main structure of our temporary wall panels is made of a rugged anodized aluminum frame that has an airtight seal element and will not rack or twist. The panel is a 3 layer construction with a lightweight aluminum front that looks like a real wall, with a bright white glossy surface that is easy to disinfect. The back of the panel is constructed of rugged galvanized steel that provides unmatched durability and stability. Finally, the urethane foam core eliminates up to 50% of renovation noise.

What are STARC Systems’ LiteBarrier™ panels made of?

The LiteBarrier™panels are made of a lightweight fiberglass reinforced polymer that is dent and scratch resistant and is chemically fused to the slim lightweight anodized aluminum frame to provide superior durability.

What are FireblockWall™ panels made of?

FireblockWall™ panels are built on a galvanized steel frame for extra durability, providing years of reuse. Our proprietary inner core provides a certified one-hour fire rating and superior noise-blocking with a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of 40. The powder coated surface provides an attractive finish, which blends into existing environments. The surface is easy to clean and readily accepts vinyl graphics. FireblockWall panels come in two standard heights: 92” or 104”, which can accommodate 8’ to 10’ ceiling heights. When required, 6” or 12” extension panels can be added to larger panels to create additional height. When installed as specified, the panel design and gaskets create airtight seals that contain dangerous dust, debris and pathogens, which means they exceed ICRA Class IV guidelines.

Are STARC Systems’ panels fire-rated?

RealWall and LiteBarrier have an ASTM E84 Class A rating but are not fire-rated. FireblockWall™ is the first and only temporary, reusable containment that is one-hour fire-rated.

What’s the main difference between FireblockWall panels and the other panels?

The main difference is the method of construction. With RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™, the method of construction is frame and panel; for FireblockWall™, it’s skin and core. In addition, RealWall and LiteBarrier feature a foam core. FireblockWall’s core features a proprietary mix of materials.

Is FireblockWall compatible with the other STARC panels?

Once a FireblockWall™ is installed it can be treated as any other permanent wall in the building, so it is 100% compatible with our RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™ systems. Simply install FireblockWall first, then use the RealWall or LiteBarrier interface modules to fit up against the FireblockWall surfaces.

How do the temporary walls fasten to the ceiling/floor?

The height of the panels can be adjusted as they extend from 6’10” to 10’3”. The panels then attach to the floor via a rubber gasket that provides an airtight seal and superior grip for stability. The top of the panel contains a gasket as well, that provides an airtight seal. Ceiling grid clips are used to anchor the top of the panels to the ceiling grid to provide rigid stability.

What’s the difference between the RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™ systems?

RealWall™ is our original award winning premier solution in reusable temporary containment that provides sound attenuation, real wall appearance and superior unmatched durability and stability. Our new LiteBarrier™ containment system is the most durable solution in the lightweight containment category, has lower upfront costs and looks great and is fast and easy to install. LiteBarrier™is compatible with RealWall™and other polycarbonate systems.

Are the RealWall™and LiteBarrier™ system compatible?

Yes, both systems are compatible and will connect with each other.

Will LiteBarrier™ work with existing polycarbonate systems?

Yes, we have an adapter connection that allows LiteBarrier™ to connect with other polycarbonate systems via an adapter.

How do I tell which components are RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™?

Both systems, their accessories and components are color coded. RealWall™ uses a teal color and LiteBarrier™ uses and orange color.

What is the weight difference between RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™?

LightBarrier is about 50% lighter than RealWall and similar to polycarbonate plastic systems.

Are these systems just meant to be used in healthcare settings?

They exceed the highest standards in a healthcare setting and they are also used in a variety of other verticals like Class A office space, education, airports, life sciences/biotech, and data centers.

Are they manufactured in the U.S.?

We are proud to manufacture our panels in the United States and have a strong focus on quality and sustainability.

How much do STARC Systems temporary walls cost?

After understanding your project needs and location, we can recommend which system is right for you and provide a customized quote detailing the configuration and costs. We also offer a Test-to-Own program as well as the option to rent. If you try and then decide to buy, you qualify for a one time discount! For more information, check out our purchasing options.

How many times can the STARC System be reused?

Because all three of our systems are so durable, they can be used for years, over the course of hundreds of jobs. It takes about 3-5 projects for one of our systems to completely pay for itself, virtually eliminating future containment costs. All three systems are backed by an industry-best warranty: 3 years for RealWall™, 2 years for LiteBarrier™ and FireblockWall™.

What tools do you need to install the panels?

Just one which comes with every order! Both systems feature disruption free installation with a fast and easy lift and drop connection. Panel heights are adjusted with a supplied allen wrench. Two people can install 100’ of RealWall™ in one hour. One person can install 100’ of LiteBarrier™ in less than one hour.

Is there a tax benefit to purchasing temporary containment systems?

Yes! Purchasing a modular wall system designed to contain dust, debris, airborne pathogens, and more qualifies as an equipment purchase under IRS Section 179. Learn how you can substantially save on the cost of a STARC System purchase for your business.

Does your product have a warranty?

Of course! Our exceptionally durable RealWall™ panels are backed by a 3-year warranty. Our lightweight-but-durable LiteBarrier™ system – as well as our one-hour fire-rated FireblockWall™ system – are backed by a 2-year warranty.

How long will it take for me to receive the STARC System?

We pride ourselves on best-in-class customer service and will do everything we can to meet your requirements.

What is the best way to store my STARC Systems containment walls to protect them between uses?

All of our panels, doors and accessories arrive on a cart ready to wheel to the job site. The carts are also perfect for storing the systems when not in use. Each cart can hold up to 28’ of RealWall™ or 56’ of LiteBarrier™ panels. There’s also a dust cover for extra protection during time in storage.

How can contractor compliance with ICRA Class IV requirements be achieved using STARC Systems?

All three STARC containment systems are exceptionally engineered to create airtight connections between panels, the floor, and the ceiling. RealWall™, LiteBarrier™ and FireblockWall™ exceed ICRA Class IV requirements; FireblockWall also meets the recently created ICRA Class V recommendation concerning NFPA 241 compliance. All three solutions can be easily disinfected using water or solvent-based cleaners and disinfectants. The negative air panels filter out dust particles, along with other construction debris. STARC containment is the ideal choice for operating rooms, isolation rooms, urgent care centers, outpatient surgical centers, clinics, doctors’ offices, and hospitals.

How do the RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™ systems contain construction dust and debris?

Modular, airtight walls can make a big difference in any construction project. STARC’s temporary containment walls are ICRA Class IV rated and assemble easily and quickly in a matter of minutes. These containment walls have set the standard for temporary dust walls, offering the best means of controlling dust, and are far more effective than drywall, polycarbonate systems or plastic sheeting.