The backer is the backbone of every attachment system. Its customization ensures that the chosen method performs optimally—not just structurally and acoustically, but visually and for maintenance too.
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Thin PET Felt (½”) — ideal for adhesive installs:
Lightweight and acoustically helpful without adding bulk, thin Soundcore® PET felt backers are perfect where a low-profile, seamless finish is required. They’re also available in a wide range of colors, so the finish behind the greenery can be matched to the room palette or used as a subtle neutral that hides seams and fasteners.
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1/2” Plywood Backer — ideal for mechanical fastening:
Structural 1/2″ plywood carries heavier foliage and provides a reliable substrate for screws, Z-clips, welded mesh, and direct-galvanized attachments. Plywood backers can be finished in many ways—stained, painted, veneered, laminated, or edge-banded—so visible returns or recessed reveals tie into the architecture. For exterior or high-wear projects specify treated or marine-grade plywood and color finishes that resist weathering. If a project requires exceptionally high point loads or very large spans, the backer can be upsized or reinforced with an engineered substrate or additional framing.
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Multiple-Layer Backers — best of both worlds:
Combining a felt face (for NRC gains and a refined surface) with a structural wood backer or multiple backer layers give you acoustic performance plus load capacity. This layered approach lets you pair a rich felt color against a warm wood tone, or use contrasting colors to frame branding, logos, or planted compositions. -
Direct Galvanized Mesh + Backer (heavy-duty mechanical):
When panels mount to welded wire mesh that is secured to a plywood or metal backer, you get maximum load distribution and an even foliage field. Mesh systems are usually finished so that the mesh/backer interface is hidden, but where it’s exposed the backer finish and color are a design opportunity—either to blend or to create depth behind dense planting.
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Custom Thickness & Shape Options:
Backer thickness, material, and edge detail are tailored to site conditions—½″ for recessed/trimmed installs, thicker laminated builds for curves, or engineered sandwich backers for very large, permanent walls. Backer returns, reveals, and edge banding can be color-matched or intentionally contrasted to emphasize form and branding. -
Color Customization — a powerful design lever:
Backer color isn’t just cosmetic. Choosing the right color affects perceived depth, contrast, and the overall mood of the installation. Dark backs (deep charcoal or black) push greenery forward and create drama; lighter backs open and brighten a space. Colors can be matched to brand palettes, specified to hide dust and wear (useful in high-traffic areas), or selected to accentuate logos and negative space within the planting. Color options include custom-dyed wool/PET felts, painted or stained plywood, veneers, powder-coated metal, and printed laminates—so nearly every surface expression is possible.
The backer also ensures even weight distribution, supports fire-safety and code compliance when properly specified, and—when paired with acoustic materials—improves sound control (typical NRCs for these systems sit in the high-0.5 range depending on build-up). In short: specify the backer for structure, acoustics, maintenance, and visual intent—every one of those choices affects how well your attachment method performs.
