Help Centre
Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know about Magnat panels, samples, installation, delivery and our trade programme.
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The Product
What are Magnat acoustic slat panels made of?
Every Magnat panel consists of real-wood veneer slats bonded to a 9mm PET acoustic felt backing. The slats are 18mm wide with 10mm air gaps between them. The combination of timber, air gaps and felt creates a natural acoustic absorption system - no synthetic materials, no off-gassing.
What is NRC and what does it mean in practice?
NRC stands for Noise Reduction Coefficient. For example, a rating of 0.65 means panels absorb 65% of sound energy that strikes them. The remaining 35% is reflected back into the room.
In a typical living room or bedroom, this translates to a noticeable reduction in echo and reverberation - voices are clearer, music sounds better, and the space feels calmer.
How many panels do I need for my wall?
The standard Magnat panel is 2400 × 600mm, giving a coverage area of 1.44m² per panel. To calculate how many you need: measure your wall area in m², divide by 1.44, then add 10% for cuts and waste.
For example, a 3m × 2.5m wall = 7.5m² ÷ 1.44 = 5.2 panels — round up to 6 and add one spare = 7 panels total. Contact us if you'd like us to calculate it for you.
Are the panels suitable for bathrooms or wet areas?
No — Magnat panels are not water-resistant and should not be installed in wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens splashbacks or outdoor spaces. They are designed for dry interior walls only. Excessive humidity can cause the timber veneer to warp or delaminate over time.
Samples
How does the sample work?
You can order a physical sample of any finish. Samples are delivered nationwide so you can see the real colour, grain and texture in your space and light before committing to full panels.
You can order samples of multiple finishes in a single order.
How big is a sample piece?
Sample pieces are approximately 150 × 120mm - large enough to see the full slat pattern, grain direction, air gaps and backing felt. They're designed to be held against your wall to compare with your paint colours, flooring and furniture.
Installation
Can I install Magnat panels myself?
Yes - Magnat panels are designed for DIY installation. No specialist trades required. Panels can be fixed using:
- Construction adhesive (no-nails or similar) - simplest method, no wall damage
- Screws through the felt backing into wall studs or a timber batten
What wall surfaces can panels be installed on?
Panels can be installed on plaster, drywall (gypsum board), brick and concrete - provided the surface is flat, clean and dry. For uneven walls, install a timber batten framework first to create a level surface for the panels to sit against.
Do not install on walls with active moisture, crumbling paint or surfaces that are not fully adhered.
How do I cut panels to size?
Panels can be cut with a fine-tooth hand saw, circular saw or jigsaw. Always cut with the veneer face up to minimise chipping. For straight cuts along slats, a sharp utility knife and straight edge also works well on the felt backing side.
Score the backing, then snap along the scored line - no power tools necessary for straight slat-direction cuts.
Delivery & Returns
How long does delivery take?
Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Nationwide delivery via courier takes 3–5 business days from dispatch. Remote areas may take an additional 1–2 days.
Samples ship on the same timeline as panel orders. You'll receive a tracking notification by email once your order has been dispatched.
What is your returns policy?
We accept returns on unused, unopened panels in original packaging within 30 days of delivery. Panels must not have been installed or cut. Return shipping is at the customer's cost unless the product is faulty.
All panels carry a 12-month manufacturing warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. To start a return or warranty claim, email enquiries@magnatdesigns.co.za.
Trade
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