Wall padding
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Wall padding may go by a variety of names, including; Softwall, Wainscott, Cushion Wall, Safety Padding, and more.
The primary purpose of wall padding is to provide a safe level of absorption for an individual making impact with an established object.[1] Often these objects are walls (hence “wall padding”), but also these pads commonly protect bleachers, stage fronts, I-Beams, goal posts, columns, and fences.
Standard Sizes
Typical indoor wall panels are 24” wide x 72” high. In recent history however many newly constructed schools and universities have made a push for 84” high padding in their basketball facilities, where athletes are often elevated in motion. In grappling and wrestling facilities pads are regularly 60” since most movement occurs on the ground.
Outdoor stadium padding is 48” wide x 96” high. However, when working with a skilled manufacturer all dimensions can often be easily customized to fit the unique needs of your facility.
Composition
Standard quality indoor wall panel will begin with a 7/16” osb (oriented strand board) backer. To that, a layer of foam will be laminated. For indoor panels the standard thickness of foam is 2”, but which type 2” foam is laminated to the backer is the most important part of the pad (see foam). After these steps have been completed a 16 oz. vinyl cover is stapled over the face and onto the back of the pad.
Foam
Foam used in manufacturing wall padding is typically a polyurethane based foam, but can vary based on a specification written, or simply customer preference.
Vinyl
Vinyl range from 14 oz. to 18 oz. in weight, and typically has a light leather emboss pattern engrained into the good side of the material. There are at least 16 standard colors to choose from. Vinyl should also be expected to meet fire retardant test NFPA-701 and ASTM E84