Scott Beattie, Managing Director at Fibo, explores the importance of taking a system approach when it comes to wall panel installations
When it comes to bathroom installations and refurbishments, wall panels can present a great alternative to tiles. But what can you do to help ensure a 100% waterproof finish and a happy customer, with no call backs?
Wall panels have certainly increased in popularity over the last few years, and it is easy to see why. Presenting a great alternative to standard tiles, wall panels can be quicker and easier to install, with no wet trades required and the ability to fit the panels over existing tiles – especially ideal for bathroom refurbishment jobs. Manufactured from a timber plywood core, wall panels are also incredibly durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain, without the risk of chipping, cracking or a deteriorating grout line.
But wall panels are not to be considered in isolation. To achieve the high-quality finish and – most importantly – the waterproof performance that your customers will expect, it is important to consider the wall panel system as a whole. Indeed, the wall panel itself is just one part of a wider system, with additional components such as steel profiles, sealant and adhesive making up its construction. Just as you wouldn’t install a shower tray without the shower, pipework and screen also (as an example), it is the same for wall panels.
The first item to consider is the profiles. Commonly manufactured from PVC or brushed aluminium, these are cut to size and installed in conjunction with the timber wall panels. Profiles are a vital part of a wall panel system, helping to ensure a watertight seal. Base profiles must be installed in any wet areas, whether sitting between the panel and the floor in the case of a wet room feature, between the panel and bath, or panel and shower tray. Likewise, corner profiles should also be used to ensure a perfect and water-tight corner join. Some manufacturers also offer the option of hidden internal corner profiles, helping to deliver a truly seamless aesthetic.
Next is sealant, no doubt a regularly used product in your toolbox. While wall panels may be manufactured with a reliable tongue and groove joining system, such as Fibo’s unique Aqualock, the use of a hybrid polymer waterproof sealant is essential to achieve the desired system performance. Sealant should be applied to all joints and edges during a wall panel system installation, including between all exposed panel edges and profile channels.
One of the final products to consider, which helps make up the overall wall panel system, is adhesive. Wall panels can commonly be installed in two ways: either using screws through the groove in the panel’s fixing lip to fit it to the wooden battens behind; or adhesive, fixing the panels directly to plasterboard or existing tiles. If the second option is taken, it is clearly imperative that a high-quality, high-tensile and waterproof adhesive is used, ensuring a long-lasting and durable system performance. One 380ml tube should be used between every three 600mm panels.
It is worthwhile speaking to your wall panel supplier first, as they will often offer the required products and accessories, in addition to the wall panels. This ‘one stop shop’ approach brings with it clear benefits, for rather than having to source the materials from a range of different suppliers, you can get everything you need for the job from one place, with one invoice.
All of this offers you the assurance of a trouble-free installation, using materials and products that have been recommended or produced by the wall panel manufacturer themselves. But that’s not all, for as well as peace of mind, using a manufacturer’s recommended installation method may be a key requirement of the system performance warranty.
At Fibo, as well as our high-quality and 100% waterproof plywood wall panels, we also offer a range of profiles and accessories to accompany the system, helping installers achieve the perfect finish every time. From sealant (available in both white and grey) and adhesive to cleaning wipes and spray to help easily remove any excess adhesive or sealant from the wall panels. In fact, we’re so confident in the performance of our wall panel system that we offer an industry-leading 25-year guarantee, providing both you and your customer with added peace of mind.
To view a series of installation videos on Fibo wall panels, click here.
