Wet Wall Panel Installation FAQs

installing bathroom wall panels

Are you considering installing wet wall panels but have numerous questions about the process? Our comprehensive “Wet Wall Panel Installation FAQs” guide is here to help. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or contemplating professional installation, this article provides valuable insights into every aspect of the installation journey, from preparation and necessary tools to specific scenarios and maintenance tips.

In this guide, we’ll cover crucial topics such as surface compatibility, adhesive choices, and sealing methods, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to handle your project with confidence. With our expert advice, you’ll be prepared to create a stylish and functional bathroom space. Read on to find answers to all your pressing questions about wet wall panel installation and make your renovation project a success.

Installation Process and Tools

Installing wet wall panels can transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional space. Whether you are embarking on a DIY project or seeking professional assistance, understanding the installation process is crucial for achieving the best results. This section provides detailed answers to common questions about the installation process and the tools required, ensuring you are well-prepared for your renovation project.

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Yes, our bathroom wall panels are designed with simplicity in mind, making them easy to install for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Our panels can be installed onto a variety of surfaces, provided that the surface is sound, plumb, and level. Sometimes, pre-treatment of the surface may be necessary to ensure optimal adhesion. To further streamline the process, our panels do not require grouting and can be fitted with basic tools, making the installation straightforward and hassle-free.

We recommend reading our DIY Installation Guide. If you’re looking to install only panels in your shower, our DIY Shower Wall Panel Installation Guide will also come in handy.

For a successful installation of wet wall panels, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • Fine tooth hand saw: For precise cuts around fixtures and edges.
  • Measuring tape: To ensure accurate measurements of wall dimensions.
  • Pencil: For marking measurements on the panels.
  • Safety glasses: To protect your eyes during cutting and installation.
  • Silicone gun: For applying adhesive and sealant.
  • Stanley knife: For detailed cutting and trimming.
  • Spirit level: To ensure panels are level and properly aligned.
  • Safety gloves: To protect your hands from sharp edges.
  • Adhesive: Specifically formulated for strong, durable bonds.
  • Silicone sealant: For sealing joints and gaps to ensure a watertight finish.

These tools and materials will help you achieve a professional and durable result.

Installing waterproof bathroom wall panels involves several key steps to ensure a secure and lasting installation:

  1. Preparation: Store the panels flat to avoid bowing. Prepare the wall surface by ensuring it is clean, dry, and free from dust or contaminants.
  2. Measure and Cut: Measure the area where the panels will be installed. Mark these measurements on the panel and cut to size using a fine-tooth hand saw.
  3. Dry Fit: Position the panel on the wall without adhesive to check the fit. Make any necessary adjustments.
  4. Apply Adhesive: Apply adhesive to the back of the panel with a thick bead just inside the perimeter and zig-zag down the middle. Use approximately 1.5 tubes of adhesive per full panel.
  5. Fit the Panel: Press the panel firmly onto the wall, starting from one edge and working across to ensure even adhesion. Smooth out any air pockets to ensure full contact.
  6. Seal Gaps: Use Crommelin® Silicone WP Plus to seal any gaps around fixtures, fittings, and edges to create a watertight finish.

Following these steps ensures that your waterproof panels are securely installed and protected against moisture.

Although specific steps for removing old bathroom wall panels were not provided in the documents, here is a general approach:

  1. Safety First: Turn off power to the area if there are electrical fixtures involved. Wear safety gloves and goggles.
  2. Cut Seals: Use a utility knife to cut through any caulking or sealant around the edges of the old panels.
  3. Pry Panels Loose: Starting at a corner or edge, use a pry bar or putty knife to gently lift and separate the old panels from the wall, being careful not to damage the underlying surface.
  4. Remove Adhesive Residue: Once the panels are removed, scrape off any remaining adhesive or residue from the wall surface to ensure a smooth base for the new panels.
  5. Prepare the Surface: Clean the wall thoroughly to remove dust and debris, and check for any repairs needed before installing the new panels.

This process prepares your walls for a fresh installation of your new wet wall panels.

Wet Wall Works recommends using Crommelin® Hybrid MS Polyurethane Adhesive for securing bathroom wall panels. This adhesive is specifically formulated to provide strong, durable bonds that can withstand the humid environment of a bathroom. You can find this adhesive on our website here.

Ensuring that wet wall panels are level is crucial for a professional finish. Follow these steps:

  1. Measure the Wall: Measure the top, middle, and bottom of the wall where the panel will be fitted.
  2. Mark the Panel: Transfer these measurements to the panel and use a spirit level to draw a straight, horizontal line across the decorative face of the panel.
  3. Dry Fit: Position the panel on the wall along the marked line to check alignment.
  4. Adjust as Needed: Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the panel fits level and plumb.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your panels are perfectly aligned for a clean installation.

Dry fitting is an essential step to ensure a perfect fit before final installation. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Measure and Mark: Measure the area where the panels will be installed and mark these measurements on the panel.
  2. Cut to Size: Use a fine tooth saw to cut the panel to the correct size.
  3. Position the Panel: Place the panel on the wall without adhesive to check the fit. Ensure it aligns with other panels and fixtures.
  4. Make Adjustments: Trim any excess material and adjust the panel as necessary to achieve a precise fit.

Dry fitting helps identify any issues early, allowing you to make adjustments before permanently securing the panels.

Installing internal and external corner trims ensures a polished finish and protects the edges of your panels. Here’s the process:

  1. Cut to Size: Measure the height of the corner and use a fine tooth saw to cut the trim to the correct length.
  2. Apply Adhesive: Apply a bead of adhesive to the outer edges of the trim.
  3. Position and Secure: Carefully position the trim over the corner and press firmly to ensure a strong bond. For internal trims, run a bead of silicone down the internal edge to prevent water ingress.
  4. Fit the Panels: When fitting the panels into the trims, cut off the tongue or groove of the panel to ensure a tight fit.
  5. Seal Gaps: Use silicone sealant to seal any gaps between the trim and the panel for a watertight finish.

These steps will ensure your corners are well protected and have a professional look.

By following these detailed guidelines, you can confidently install our wall panels for a beautiful, durable, and watertight finish.

Installing end cap trims adds a polished finish to your wet wall panels, ensuring they look seamless and professional. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Measure and Cut: Begin by measuring the height or length where the end cap trim will be installed. Use a fine tooth saw to cut the end cap trim to the correct size.
  2. Apply Adhesive: Apply an even bead of adhesive along the back of the end cap trim.
  3. Fit the Trim: Carefully fit the trim into place, ensuring it slots directly behind the wall panels. Make sure it aligns properly and adheres firmly to the surface.
  4. Seal Gaps: Use silicone sealant to seal any gaps around the trims, ensuring a watertight finish.

By following these steps, you achieve a clean and professional appearance, enhancing the overall look of your bathroom.

We do not recommend this form of application. Our wall panels are designed to be installed prior to installing any bathroom fixtures for a seamless installation. However, if this is not an option, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cut panels to fit around fixtures:

  1. Measure Accurately: Measure the top, middle, and bottom of the wall where the panel will be fitted.
  2. Mark the Panel: Transfer these measurements to the non-decorative face of the panel using a pencil and a spirit level.
  3. Make the Cuts: Carefully cut through the panel along the marked lines using a fine tooth saw. If necessary, cut off the tongue or groove to ensure a tight fit.
  4. Dry Fit: Before applying adhesive, dry fit the panel around the fixture to ensure it fits properly.

These steps help you achieve a precise fit around plumbing fixtures, maintaining both functionality and aesthetics.

Properly sealing joints is crucial for preventing water ingress and ensuring durability. Here are the best practices:

  1. Gap Allowance: Leave a 3-4mm gap between the bottom of the panel and the shower tray or bath.
  2. Seal the Gap: Fill the gap with silicone, ensuring the silicone is forced into the void.
  3. Clearance Around Fixtures: Provide a 2-3mm clearance gap around fixtures or fittings and fill it with silicone sealant.
  4. Application: Apply the sealant evenly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying and curing times.

The panels themselves use a tongue-and-grove interlocking system to join between panels and do not require any additional silicone.

Handling electrical outlets and switches requires careful planning to ensure safety and functionality:

  1. Power Off: Ensure the power is turned off before working on electrical fixtures.
  2. Measure and Cut Holes: Measure and mark the locations of the outlets and switches on the panel. Use a fine tooth saw to cut the necessary holes.
  3. Routing Cables: Route electrical cabling to avoid subsequent fixing points. Short tails should be left where they are to pass through the panels.
  4. Seal Around Fixtures: Use Crommelin® Silicone WP Plus to seal around the electrical fixtures, preventing water infiltration.

Following these steps ensures a safe and effective installation.

Accurate measurement and fitting around plumbing fixtures are key to a successful installation. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Measure Precisely: Measure the top, middle, and bottom of the wall where the panel will be fitted.
  2. Transfer Measurements: Transfer these measurements to the panel using a pencil and a spirit level.
  3. Cut the Panel: Use a fine tooth saw to cut the panel according to the measurements. Cut off the tongue or groove if necessary for a tight fit.
  4. Fit and Seal: Fit the panel into the trims around the plumbing fixtures. Apply Crommelin® Silicone WP Plus to seal any gaps and ensure a watertight finish.

Following these steps ensures a precise and professional installation.

Cutting holes accurately is essential for maintaining a neat and functional finish. Here’s the best approach:

  1. Measure Locations: Measure the exact location of pipes and fittings on the panel.
  2. Use Proper Tools: Use a hole saw or a fine tooth saw to cut the holes.
  3. Allow Clearance: Ensure a clearance gap of 2-3mm around the pipes or fittings.
  4. Seal the Gaps: Fill the gap with silicone sealant to prevent leaks.

These methods help achieve a precise fit and prevent water ingress around plumbing fixtures.

Applying adhesive correctly is crucial for a secure installation. Follow these steps:

  1. Prepare the Surface: Ensure the panels are clean, dry, and free from dust.
  2. Apply Adhesive: Apply a thick bead of adhesive just inside the perimeter of the panel and zig-zag down the middle. Use approximately 1.5 tubes of adhesive per full panel.
  3. Pressure Application: Fit the wall panel to the wall and apply even pressure to smooth out all air pockets, ensuring firm adhesion.

Proper adhesive application ensures strong and lasting installation.

If the adhesive isn’t bonding well to the panels, follow these steps:

  1. Clean the Panels: Ensure the panels are clean, dry, and free from dust and contaminants.
  2. Quality Adhesive: Use a quality adhesive such as Crommelin® Hybrid MS Polyurethane Adhesive, which we recommend and sell here.

These measures ensure a secure bond between the panels and the wall.

Preventing leaks requires careful installation and sealing. Here are some specific techniques:

  1. Flush and Plumb Wall: Start with a flush and plumb wall for a proper fit.
  2. Complete Wall Before Adhesive Sets: Ensure the entire wall is completed before the adhesive sets to maintain alignment.
  3. Seal Joints and Gaps: Use Crommelin® Silicone WP Plus to seal all joints and gaps, ensuring a watertight finish.

These techniques ensure a durable and leak-proof installation, keeping your bathroom looking great and functioning well.

Wall Preparation and Surface Compatibility

Creating a beautiful and long-lasting bathroom with Wet Wall Works’ wall panels starts with proper wall preparation and understanding surface compatibility. Whether you are rejuvenating an existing space or starting fresh, following the correct steps ensures a seamless installation and excellent performance.

Proper wall preparation is essential to ensure your wet wall panels adhere correctly and last for years to come:

  1. Ensure Surface Integrity: Make sure the walls are sound, plumb, and level. This means there should be no loose materials or significant irregularities.
  2. Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the walls to remove dust, grease, or any contaminants. For existing tiles, use a degreaser to ensure better adhesion.
  3. Pre-Treatment: Depending on the wall material:
    • Plasterboard: Ensure it’s securely fixed and free from dust.
    • Fresh Plaster: Seal it with a proprietary PVA sealer.
    • Wet Areas: Apply a paint-on liquid waterproofing membrane as per Australian Building Standards.
  4. Check Fittings: Make sure all necessary pipework and electrical cabling are fitted and routed to avoid subsequent fixing points.
  5. Install Framing if Needed: If your walls are uneven, use softwood timber framing to level the surface, adding additional framing where heavier items will be fitted.

By following these steps, your walls will be perfectly prepared for the installation of Wet Wall Works’ panels.

Behind bathroom wall panels, several elements ensure the installation’s integrity and longevity:

  1. Sound Surface: The existing wall, whether it’s plasterboard, tiling, concrete, chipboard, plywood sheeting, or plaster, must be sound, plumb, and level.
  2. Waterproofing: In areas prone to moisture, apply a paint-on liquid waterproofing membrane to prevent water ingress and comply with Australian Building Standards.
  3. Pipework and Cabling: All necessary plumbing and electrical work should be in place and properly routed.
  4. Insulation (Optional): For added thermal or sound insulation, consider installing appropriate insulation material behind the panels.

These components together create a secure and moisture-resistant base for your wet wall panels.

Yes, shower panels can be installed directly onto plaster, provided the plaster is sound, stable, and level. Here’s how to prepare the surface:

  1. Seal Fresh Plaster: Use a proprietary PVA sealer to seal fresh plaster before panel installation.
  2. Check for Stability: Ensure there are no cracks or loose areas in the plaster.
  3. Clean Thoroughly: Remove any dust or contaminants from the plaster surface to ensure good adhesion.

Proper preparation guarantees that your shower panels adhere well and remain durable over time.

Bathroom wall panels can be installed on uneven walls, but preparation is crucial to achieve a smooth and professional finish:

  1. Assess the Wall: Identify the extent of unevenness. Small imperfections can often be handled with thicker adhesive application.
  2. Utilize Timber Framing: For more significant unevenness, use softwood timber framing to create a level surface. Ensure the frame is securely fixed and provides additional support where needed for heavier items.
  3. Check Levels: Use a spirit level to check that the framing creates a plumb and level surface for the panels.

Creating a level surface ensures a smooth installation and optimal panel performance.

Wet Wall Works’ wall panels are versatile and can be installed on various surfaces, including:

  1. Plasterboard
  2. Existing Tiling
  3. Concrete
  4. Chipboard
  5. Plywood Sheeting
  6. Plaster

All these surfaces must be sound, plumb, and level before installation. Some may require pre-treatment, such as sealing fresh plaster or degreasing tiles, to ensure optimal adhesion.

Yes, you can install our bathroom wall panels over existing tiles. Here’s how to prepare tiled surfaces for panel installation:

  1. Clean and De-grease: Thoroughly clean the tiles to remove any grease and contaminants.
  2. Check for Loose Tiles: Ensure all tiles are secure and not loose. Replace or fix any loose tiles before proceeding.
  3. Apply Adhesive: Use our recommended adhesive to ensure strong bonding.

This method allows you to refresh your bathroom without the hassle of removing old tiles.

Fixing wall panels over existing tiles involves careful preparation and precise application:

  1. Clean the Tiles: Degrease the tiles thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion.
  2. Check for Level: Make sure the tiled surface is plumb and level. Address any major irregularities.
  3. Apply Adhesive: Use adhesive, applying a thick bead just inside the perimeter and zig-zagging down the middle.
  4. Position the Panel: Press the panel firmly onto the tiled surface, starting from one edge and working across. Smooth out any air pockets.
  5. Seal Edges: Use Crommelin® Silicone WP Plus to seal all edges and joints to ensure a watertight finish.

This process provides a seamless and modern update to your bathroom while ensuring durability and quality.

Yes, our wet wall panels can be installed in high-humidity areas such as steam rooms. To ensure their longevity and performance, follow these guidelines:

  1. Proper Waterproofing: Treat the underlying surface with a paint-on liquid waterproofing membrane as per Australian Building Standards.
  2. Seal Joints and Edges: Use Crommelin® Silicone WP Plus to seal all joints, gaps, and edges to prevent moisture ingress.
  3. Adhesive Application: Use a high-quality adhesive like Crommelin® Hybrid MS Polyurethane Adhesive for strong bonding in humid conditions.
  4. Allow for Ventilation: Ensure the steam room has adequate ventilation to manage humidity levels effectively.

Specific Installation Scenarios

Understanding specific installation scenarios for bathroom wall panels helps ensure a successful and long-lasting installation. Below, we provide authoritative yet approachable guidance to address common questions and scenarios our customers encounter.

Yes, we recommend fitting the shower tray before installing the wall panels. The shower tray should be securely positioned and sealed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This ensures that the base is stable and watertight, providing a solid foundation for the wall panels. Proper preparation of the shower tray area creates an optimal environment for the subsequent panel installation, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced waterproofing.

To ensure effective waterproofing when installing bathroom wall panels in shower areas, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare the Surface: Ensure the wall surface is clean, sound, plumb, and level. To create a moisture barrier, treat wet areas with a paint-on liquid waterproofing membrane as per Australian Building Standards.
  2. Measure and Cut Panels: Measure the area carefully and cut the panels to size using a fine tooth saw. Dry fit the panels to check alignment.
  3. Apply Adhesive: Apply adhesive to the back of the panels in a zigzag pattern, covering the entire area.
  4. Fit the Panels: Press the panels firmly onto the wall, starting from one edge and working across to ensure even adhesion. Smooth out any air pockets.
  5. Seal Joints and Edges: Use silicone sealant to seal all joints, gaps, and edges. Apply a continuous bead of silicone along the joints where two panels meet and around fixtures to prevent water ingress.

By following these steps, you can achieve a fully waterproof installation that stands up to the demands of a shower environment. For more detailed instructions, please read our article, ‘How to Install Waterproof Shower Wall Panels: A DIY Guide‘.

Installing bathroom wall panels in a bathtub surround requires careful preparation and attention to detail:

  1. Surface Preparation: Make sure the walls surrounding the bathtub are clean, dry, and level. Apply a paint-on liquid waterproofing membrane to protect against moisture.
  2. Measure and Cut Panels: Measure the height and width of the walls around the bathtub. Cut the panels to size, allowing for precise fitting around fixtures and corners.
  3. Dry Fit Panels: Position the panels without adhesive to check for proper alignment and fit. Make any necessary adjustments.
  4. Apply Adhesive: Apply adhesive generously on the back of each panel.
  5. Install Panels: Start from one corner and press the panels firmly onto the walls, ensuring they are properly aligned. Work your way around the bathtub.
  6. Seal Joints and Edges: Use silicone to seal all edges, joints, and around the bathtub’s perimeter to create a watertight seal.

Following these steps will help you achieve a professional and durable finish for your bathtub surround.

Installing bathroom wall panels around windows requires precision to ensure a neat and waterproof finish:

  1. Prepare the Area: Ensure the wall surface around the window is clean, sound, and level. Install any necessary pipework and electrical cabling, leaving short tails where they pass through the panels.
  2. Measure and Cut Panels: Measure the dimensions around the window frame and mark them on the panels. Cut the panels to fit precisely around the window using a fine tooth saw or jigsaw.
  3. Dry Fit Panels: Position the panels around the window to check for accuracy. Make any necessary adjustments.
  4. Apply Adhesive: Apply adhesive to the back of each panel.
  5. Install Panels: Carefully fit the panels around the window, pressing firmly to ensure adhesion.
  6. Seal Edges and Corners: Use silicone to seal all edges and corners, including the window frame, to prevent water ingress.

By following these steps, you can achieve a seamless and watertight installation around windows.

While bathroom wall panels can technically be installed on the ceiling, Wet Wall Works does not recommend or endorse this practice. If you choose to proceed, consider the following:

  1. Surface Preparation: Ensure the ceiling is flush, plumb, and capable of supporting the weight of the panels.
  2. Additional Support: Use appropriate fixings and possibly additional framing to support the panels securely.
  3. Adhesive Application: Apply adhesive generously to ensure a strong bond.
  4. Safety Measures: Take extra care during installation to ensure safety, especially when handling panels above your head.

Due to the complexities and potential challenges, exploring other ceiling finishing options is often better.

We advise against installing bathroom wall panels on curved surfaces. The corrugated core of the panels is not designed to bend and may develop visible fold marks or creases if forced to conform to a curve. For the best results and to maintain the integrity of the panels, we recommend installing wet wall panels on flat surfaces only.

While bathroom wall panels can be installed horizontally, it is not recommended or endorsed by Wet Wall Works. Here’s why:

  1. Design Intent: The panels are designed for vertical installation with tongue-and-groove edges on the longest (2.4 m) edges. This ensures a seamless and secure fit.
  2. Joining Panels: In a room longer than 2.4 m, horizontal installation would require joining panels with an H Trim on the new vertical edge, disrupting the seamless look.
  3. Customer Experience: Customers who have attempted horizontal installation against our recommendation often find the results unsatisfactory and end up reinstalling the panels vertically.

For the best results, we advise adhering to the intended vertical installation method to maintain the panels’ integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Proper maintenance and timely troubleshooting are essential to keep your bathroom wall panels looking pristine and functioning perfectly. With our detailed guidance, you can ensure your panels retain their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity over time, providing a beautiful, durable finish for your bathroom.

Regular maintenance is key to preserving the quality and appearance of your bathroom wall panels:

  1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the panels regularly using a non-abrasive cleaner to remove soap scum, grime, and water spots. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
  2. Sealing Gaps: Periodically check for any gaps between panels and reapply silicone sealant as needed to maintain a watertight seal and prevent moisture ingress.
  3. Storage: Store any spare or replacement panels flat indoors and avoid storing them outside to prevent bowing or warping due to environmental changes.

Following these maintenance steps ensures that your panels remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom wall panels involves regular care and attention:

  1. Consistent Cleaning: Use a non-abrasive cleaner for regular cleaning, ensuring that the panels remain free from dirt and stains. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
  2. Seal Joints: Ensure all joints and gaps are sealed with silicone sealant to prevent water ingress and maintain a seamless appearance.
  3. Inspect Regularly: Periodically inspect the panels for any signs of damage or wear and address issues promptly to maintain their visual appeal.

By adopting these practices, you can keep your bathroom wall panels looking as new as the day they were installed.

Due to the tongue-and-groove interlocking system that holds each panel in place, removing and replacing damaged panels can be challenging. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Buy a Replacement Panel: Purchase a replacement panel that matches your existing panels in size and design.
  2. Remove Damaged Panel: Begin at one end of the damaged panel and use a flat tool, like a putty knife, to gently lift it away from the tongue-and-groove joints connecting it to the adjacent panels.
  3. Install New Panel: Position the new panel in place, ensuring it fits snugly in the grooves of the adjacent panels.
  4. Seal Edges and Corners: Use silicone sealant along the top and bottom of the new panel to ensure a watertight seal and a seamless appearance.

By following these steps, you can remove and replace damaged panels with minimal disruption to your bathroom’s aesthetic. However, if you are unsure or inexperienced, we recommend seeking professional assistance for best results.

If you notice bowing or warping in your bathroom wall panels, take the following actions:

  1. Check Storage Conditions: Ensure that the panels are stored flat and indoors. Avoid storing panels outside where they can be exposed to drastic temperature changes.
  2. Environmental Control: Maintain a consistent indoor environment to avoid conditions that may cause the panels to warp.
  3. Replacement: If a panel is significantly warped, it may need to be replaced. Follow the steps outlined for replacing damaged panels to ensure a smooth and even installation.

Proper storage and environmental control are crucial in preventing bowing or warping of your panels.

To clean adhesive residue from your bathroom wall panels, follow these steps:

  1. Select an Appropriate Remover: Use a suitable adhesive remover recommended by the manufacturer.
  2. Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying and removing the adhesive remover.
  3. Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe away the residue, ensuring not to damage the panel surface.

This ensures your panels remain clean and free from unsightly adhesive marks after installation.

Achieving a seamless finish when joining multiple panels requires precision and the right techniques:

  1. Accurate Measurement: Measure and mark the panels accurately to ensure a snug fit.
  2. Use Internal Corner Trims: For corners, use internal corner trims to create a clean and seamless junction.
  3. Apply Adhesive Properly: Use the recommended adhesive to securely bond the panels together.
  4. Seal Joints: Apply silicone sealant to all joints and gaps to ensure a watertight finish and enhance the seamless look.

These steps help create a professional and visually appealing installation.

Additional Considerations

When choosing our wall panels, it’s important to understand the various benefits and considerations involved in their use. This section will address common questions and provide valuable insights into ensuring a successful installation and long-term satisfaction.

Our wet wall panels offers several advantages over traditional tiling:

  1. Cost Savings: Panels are generally more affordable than tiles and reduce the overall cost due to simpler installation processes.
  2. User-Friendly Installation: Easy to install with adhesive and silicone sealant, making it accessible for DIY projects.
  3. Tool-Friendly: Only basic tools are needed, such as a fine tooth hand saw, measuring tape, and silicone gun.
  4. Reduced Disruption: Installation is quicker and less messy compared to tiling, minimizing disruption to your home.
  5. Flexibility: Can be fitted to almost any surface, including plasterboard, existing tiling, concrete, chipboard, plywood sheeting, and plaster.
  6. Learning Experience: Provides an opportunity for personal growth and skill development through DIY installation.
  7. Timely Completion: Projects can be completed more quickly than with traditional tiling, allowing for timely renovations.
  8. Personal Satisfaction: Completing the installation yourself can offer a great sense of achievement.
  9. Cost Control: Allows for better management of renovation budgets and expenses.

These benefits make bathroom wall panels a practical and appealing alternative to traditional tiling. For more detailed comparison, read our article, ‘Bathroom Wall Panel vs. Tile Comparison: Making the Right Choice‘.

Yes, Wet Wall Works recommends using Crommelin® silicone sealants and adhesives. These products are specifically formulated to ensure strong adhesion and a watertight finish, providing reliable performance in wet areas. You can purchase these here.

The skinning time for Crommelin® Hybrid MS Polyurethane Adhesive is 15 minutes. Allow sufficient drying time as per the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions before exposing the panels to water or heavy use.

The warranty of Wet Wall Works bathroom wall panels is 10-years from the purchase date. Thus , you can expect your panels to last at least that long with proper installation and maintenance. However, with regular cleaning and care, your panels can potentially last even longer.

Learn more about our warranty here.

To prevent damage to your bathroom wall panels before installation:

  1. Store Flat: Keep the panels stored flat in their original boxes to avoid bowing or warping.
  2. Indoor Storage: Store panels indoors, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  3. Cool, Dry Conditions: Ensure the storage area is cool and dry, especially for the panel adhesive.

These storage practices help maintain the integrity of the panels before they are installed.

Avoiding common mistakes ensures a flawless installation:

  1. Misaligned Panels: Ensure panels are properly aligned by using a spirit level and accurately measuring before cutting.
  2. Ignoring Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adhesive application, panel fitting, and sealing.
  3. Incomplete Preparation: Make sure the wall surface is clean, sound, plumb, and level before starting the installation.
  4. Premature Adhesive Setting: Complete the entire wall before the adhesive sets to allow for adjustments and proper fitting.

By steering clear of these mistakes, you can achieve a professional and durable installation.

Handling the joints between bathroom wall panels and the floor is crucial for waterproofing:

  1. Leave a Gap: Leave a 3-4mm gap between the bottom of the panel and the shower tray or bath. This allows for expansion and contraction.
  2. Seal the Gap: Fill this gap with silicone sealant to ensure a watertight seal.

Properly managing these joints prevents water ingress and maintains the integrity of the panels.

Finishing the edges of your bathroom wall panels can enhance the overall look and protect the edges:

  1. End Caps: Use end cap trims to cover the exposed edges of the panels, providing a neat and professional finish.
  2. Internal Corner Trims and External Corner Trims: Utilise these trims for corners to ensure a seamless transition and added protection.
  3. H Trim: H trim is perfect for joining two panels together, creating a clean and uniform look.

Click here to learn more about our finishing trims.

Yes, bathroom panels are versatile and can be used in various areas, including kitchens. However, they are not suitable for installation behind cooktops.

Yes, our bathroom wall panels can be used in other areas of the home, such as:

  1. Kitchens: As mentioned, they can serve as kitchen splashbacks (not suitable behind cooktops).
  2. Utility Rooms: Provide a durable and easy-to-clean surface.
  3. Laundry Rooms: Protect walls from moisture and improve aesthetics.

Their versatility makes them suitable for various applications beyond the bathroom.

Choosing DIY installation offers several benefits:

  1. Cost Savings: Eliminates labour costs associated with professional installation.
  2. Learning Experience: Provides an opportunity to develop new skills and confidence.
  3. Personal Satisfaction: Completing the project yourself brings a great sense of accomplishment.
  4. Flexibility: Allows you to work at your own pace and make adjustments as needed.
  5. Timely Completion: Enables you to manage your schedule and finish the project on time.
  6. Cost Control: Better management of your renovation budget, avoiding unexpected expenses.

DIY installation empowers homeowners to take control of their projects while enjoying significant benefits. For more information, read our dedicated article, ‘DIY or Professional Installation: What You Need to Know About Installing Bathroom Wall Panels‘.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines and considering additional factors, you can successfully install our bathroom wall panels for a durable and attractive enhancement to your home. Remember to always follow manufacturer instructions for best results, and if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance or guidance.

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