NBS Chorus
NBS Specification for
Movable Acoustic Walls
ModernGlide movable wall systems and operable partitions are available on NBS Chorus — the UK's leading cloud-based specification platform. Architects can use NBS Chorus to include ModernGlide movable wall systems in project specifications, accessing ready-to-use clauses for the complete MG Series under NBS L20 operable partition clauses.
Access specification clauses for movable acoustic wall specification, operable wall systems for architects, sliding folding partition specification and glazed partition systems — all available directly through NBS Chorus. Our technical team can also assist with bespoke NBS clause preparation for project-specific requirements.
NBS L20 Explained
What is NBS L20
Operable Partitions?
NBS L20 is the National Building Specification work section covering operable partitions — movable wall systems used to divide internal spaces while maintaining acoustic separation. It applies to all types of operable partition system including:
- Movable acoustic walls and operable walls
- Sliding folding partitions (solid and glazed)
- Glazed partition systems and glass sliding panels
- Top hung and floor supported systems
- Fully electric automated operable walls
- Crittall-style glazed sliding folding partitions
Architects and specifiers use NBS L20 clauses to specify the performance requirements, construction details, acoustic ratings, track systems and installation standards for movable wall systems in commercial, education and community buildings. ModernGlide products are available through NBS Chorus, making it straightforward to specify our operable partition systems under L20 clauses.
Access NBS ChorusOfficial NBS Listing
ModernGlide Ltd on NBS Chorus
Access the official ModernGlide product listing on NBS Chorus. Find specification clauses, product data and acoustic performance information for all movable wall and operable partition systems.
- Full NBS Chorus specification clauses for all MG Series products
- Acoustic performance data and Rw ratings included
- BIM objects available for major products
- Regular updates as products evolve
- Support for bespoke NBS clauses
Specification Keywords
Specification Guidance
Specifying Under NBS L20:
Key Clause Topics
When specifying operable partition systems under NBS L20, architects and specifiers need to address the following key topics. ModernGlide's technical team can assist with all aspects of the specification process.
Top Hung Operable Walls
NBS L20 accommodates top hung operable wall systems where all panel weight is suspended from an overhead structural track. No floor track is required, preserving floor finish continuity. All ModernGlide MG100, MG400, MG600, MG700 and MG100E systems are top hung and can be specified under this clause.
Floor Supported Operable Walls
For large-span applications where ceiling structure cannot carry full panel weight, NBS L20 covers floor supported operable wall systems. These distribute load through the floor via a bottom guide track while an overhead track maintains panel alignment and guidance. This applies to the ModernGlide MG200 and MG500 products.
Acoustic Performance Requirements
NBS L20 specification clauses require acoustic performance to be stated as a weighted sound reduction index (Rw). ModernGlide systems achieve Rw 33–59 dB. Specifiers should state the required Rw value in the clause, referencing the relevant product test certificate.
Panel Construction
L20 clauses cover panel core construction, facing materials, frame profiles and edge sealing. ModernGlide solid panels use acoustic infill cores with steel or aluminium frames and a wide choice of fabric, vinyl, veneer or paint finish facings.
Track Systems & Stacking
NBS L20 requires the track system type, stacking arrangement and pocket configuration to be specified. ModernGlide systems offer straight stacking, split stacking and recessed pocket options to suit a wide range of building layouts.
Glass & Solid Panel Systems
NBS L20 covers both solid acoustic panels and glazed operable partitions. ModernGlide glazed systems (MG500, MG600, MG700, MG900) can be specified under L20 glazed operable partition clauses, with acoustic performance and glass specification stated in the clause.
Need Help Writing Your L20 Specification?
Our technical team can assist with NBS L20 clause preparation, acoustic performance data and product selection guidance for operable partition systems.
Products on NBS Chorus
ModernGlide Systems Available
Under NBS L20
All ModernGlide MG Series movable wall systems can be specified under NBS L20 operable partition clauses. Access our full NBS Chorus listing for specification clauses and product data.
FIS Accreditation
ModernGlide is accredited by the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS), the UK's leading trade association for the finishes and interiors industry. FIS accreditation gives architects and specifiers confidence that our installations meet the highest standards.
Learn About FISTechnical Downloads
Download technical datasheets, CAD drawings, acoustic test certificates and installation guides for all MG Series operable partition systems to support NBS L20 specification.
View DownloadsSpecification Guide
Read our step-by-step movable wall specification guide — covering acoustic ratings, panel construction, track systems, stacking configurations and glass vs solid panel systems.
Read GuideReady to Specify?
Our Technical Team
Is Here to Help
Contact our technical team for NBS L20 specification support, bespoke specification clauses, acoustic performance guidance and project-specific documentation.