Standards
The metal framework that the seat rests upon is called the standard. The instant a standard loosens or fails, the performance of the entire seat is compromised. We feature movie chairs that include standards made in a number of ways, all of which are very durable. Cast iron speaks for itself. Heavy gauge rectangular, tubular steel that is robotically mig-welded is now competitive with cast iron. Robotically-completed welds are extremely consistent and durable.
Metal Finishing
Painted seat standards look fine at the outset, then items worn by ticket holders begin to scratch such surfaces. Bare, unattractive metal is exposed, and in some cases rust even follows. Our rockers feature polyester powder coating. This is an alternative that is tough and wear resistant. Once the finish is electrostatically applied, it is oven-baked at a full 200 degrees C.
Rocker Mechanisms
We’ve found that designs that include two rubber pads in contact in the rocker mechanism will offer the long-term silent operation and minimal maintenance expense that is highly desirable.
Automotive-grade Plastics
The best seat manufacturers have not tried to re-invent the wheel. They’ve looked to the auto industry and their extensive testing to determine which plastics to use in the construction of commercial theater seating. Furthermore, these high-grade plastics can be precisely molded and ribbed to offer ideal ergonomics. When your patrons are comfortable for,hours an end, they will return, and they will likely be more amenable to concession stand visits.
Fabrics
It’s the upholstery of a high quality movie theater chair that is in repeated contact with your customers. It must be highly spill resistant and stain resistant. It must be easy to wipe down on occasion. We find that fire-retardant polyolefin fabrics are often among the best. Our Concorde and Grandview rockers, for example, feature a Marquesa Lana polyolefin that will maintain its original appearance for years to come. Cutting corners in fabric selection can result in hard-to-remove stains and, sometimes, a need for early replacement.
Portable Seating
Some of our cinema owners have found that high-grade portable seating can complement the permanent chairs, thereby enhancing revenue. Preferred Seating has a number of lines of portable seating that are upholstered, ergonomic, and durable. Such seating can be employed selectively to enhance capacity when necessary.
Used Theater Chairs
The popularity of conversions to stadium-style seating and even dinner seating has resulted in our company often having excellent stocks of pre-owned seating to re-sell. Savings can often approach 40 percent. In many cases, such used seating will show little or no wear. Used theater seats are also more common now that some cinemas are closing rather than converting to the new digital movie projectors. These trends can work in your favor as they help to reduce your bottom line.
Whether you select new or used seating, our design experts and seating consultants can guide your through the labyrinth of choices to a successful conclusion of your project. We welcome the opportunity to come to understand your needs and to then meet them.
