An Alternative to Vinyl Wallcovering

Innovations in Wallcoverings, Inc., a 25-year-old manufacturer of vinyl wallcoverings and upholstery, introduced Allegory® at the NeoCon® trade show of commercial interiors in June 1999. The company’s first non-PVC product is comprised of 50% wood fiber and 50% spun-woven polyester with inks that contain no heavy metals or formaldehyde. Several simple yet attractive patterns and soft colors are available.

Allegory is not ideal for all applications. Unlike vinyl, it is moisture-permeable and thus not recommended for high-moisture areas, such as shower rooms. It can be washed but not “scrubbed,” so may not be appropriate for areas that receive heavy soiling. On the other hand, moisture permeability can be a benefit from an indoor air quality standpoint. Consulting engineer and IAQ expert Joe Lstiburek, P.E. has become alarmed about mold problems caused by the low permeability of vinyl wallcovering. “We’re seeing problems with vinyl in all climates, though it is particularly bad in hot-humid climates,” said Lstiburek. Most vinyl wallcoverings have a permeability of about 1 perm (60 ng/(s·m2Pa)), according to Lstiburek. “Any wallcovering that is permeable or semipermeable is good, as far as I’m concerned,” he said. Lstiburek, who was not familiar with Allegory, cautioned that some hybrid (cellulose-polymer) products are not dimensionally stable across a wide humidity range. If Allegory proves stable, it could be a winner.