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Metal Baffles

Durable, fire-resistant aluminum baffles for high-traffic and high-design commercial spaces.

What Are Metal Baffles?

Metal baffles are vertical hanging panels made from aluminum or steel, often perforated and filled with acoustical fleece or fiberglass. They hang from the ceiling structure in parallel rows, absorbing and diffusing sound while adding a strong architectural element to the space.

Where felt baffles are soft and organic-looking, metal baffles are precise and industrial. They suit spaces that want a clean, hard-edged aesthetic — think airport terminals, corporate headquarters, transit stations, and modern office buildings.

Commercial Applications

  • Airports and transit hubs — Large volumes, lots of noise, and a need for durability. Metal baffles handle all three.
  • Corporate lobbies — High-end first impression with real acoustic function.
  • Convention centers — Big rooms that need serious sound control and can't use soft materials that would look out of place.
  • Parking garages and canopies — Exterior-rated metal baffles work in covered outdoor or semi-outdoor applications.
  • Data centers — Non-combustible, moisture-proof, and effective at absorbing equipment noise.
  • Retail flagships — Design-forward stores that want ceiling interest without a traditional grid.

Benefits

  • Durability: Aluminum doesn't rust, warp, or degrade. Metal baffles last decades with zero maintenance.
  • Fire resistance: Non-combustible. Metal baffles meet the strictest fire codes without special treatment.
  • Moisture-proof: Won't absorb water, sag, or grow mold. Works in humid environments and exterior canopies.
  • Design options: Available in dozens of standard colors, wood-grain finishes, and custom powder coat colors.
  • Sound control: Perforated metal with acoustical backing achieves NRC ratings up to 0.85+.
  • Clean lines: Precision-manufactured for consistent spacing and alignment. Very tight tolerances.

Installation

Metal baffles hang from a carrier system — typically a series of parallel support channels mounted to the deck with threaded rod or cables. The baffles clip or hook into the carriers at set intervals. Spacing is usually 4"–12" between baffles depending on acoustic requirements and the visual effect the architect wants.

Because they're heavier than felt, the support structure needs to be engineered. We work from manufacturer shop drawings that specify hanger locations, spacing, and load requirements. Everything gets coordinated with the structural engineer.

Installation is precise work. Each baffle needs to hang straight, level, and at exactly the right spacing. Our crews use string lines and laser levels to keep everything aligned across long runs.

Specs

  • Material: Extruded or formed aluminum, galvanized steel
  • Baffle depth: 4"–16" depending on product line
  • Lengths: Up to 20' standard (longer with splices)
  • NRC: 0.60–0.90 (perforated with acoustical infill)
  • Finish: Powder coat (any RAL color), anodized, wood-grain laminate
  • Fire rating: Non-combustible (ASTM E136)

Manufacturers

We install metal baffles from Armstrong (MetalWorks line), Lindner, Hunter Douglas, and Chicago Metallic. Armstrong's metal baffle system is probably the most commonly specified in our market. For custom or specialty metal work, we also work directly with regional fabricators.

Metal vs. Felt Baffles

Metal baffles cost more — typically 2-3x the installed price of PET felt baffles. They're heavier and take longer to install. But they last longer, handle tough environments (moisture, impact, outdoor exposure), and have a distinctly different look. The choice usually comes down to design intent and environment. Felt for warm and casual. Metal for precise and architectural.

Get a Quote

Metal baffles require careful coordination between the architect, structural engineer, and installer. Let us help spec the right system for your project. Contact us for a free estimate.