How to: Flexible Fiberglass Panels

Flexible fiberglass panels are also known as FRP (fiberglass reinforced plastic) board. This type of paneling comes in 4-by-8-foot sections for installation in bathrooms. It is water- and moisture-resistant. Installing flexible fiberglass panels is similar to installing any other type of paneling on the walls of your home.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• FRP adhesive
• Trowel
• FRP dividers
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Run a tape measure along the length and width of the wall where the flexible paneling will go. Record the measurement of the length and width of the entire area. Multiply the two together to get the total square footage. This will determine how many sheets of paneling you will need.

2. Set your fiberglass panels in the bathroom or other room where you will be installing them. Let them sit for 24 hours so they can acclimate to the temperature. This will prevent too much expansion after installation.

3. Open up a bucket of FRP adhesive and dip a trowel into the bucket. Turn the first sheet of fiberglass paneling over so it is upside down and spread the adhesive onto the back of the paneling with the trowel. Cover it entirely with a thin 1/4-inch layer.

4. Pick up the fiberglass panel and hold it vertically up against the wall. Press it into place on the wall. Leave a 1/4-inch gap from the end of the wall and the floor to account for any expansion that may still occur. Run your hands over the entire surface. Push down firmly so it can adhere to the wall.

5. Spread adhesive on the back of an FRP divider. Slide it into the fiberglass panel on the wall and press it firmly into place. Install the second fiberglass panel just like the first. Slide it into the other side of the FRP divider and press it into place. Install a second FRP divider and then the third fiberglass panel. Continue in the same manner until the wall is covered with the fiberglass panels.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear gloves when you are working with fiberglass panels. The fiberglass can get into your skin and be very itchy and irritating.

References

• Panolam FRP: Installation Guide