How to Install FRP Wall Paneling in a Bathroom
Fiberglass reinforced panels (FRP) are a type of plastic paneling reinforced with fiberglass for added strength and durability. They are often installed on walls in moisture-prone or hard-to-clean areas like kitchens, bathrooms and hospitals. These panels can be used to create a sanitary wall surface that is completely water-proof and easy to wipe clean. FRP installation is a simple task that can be completed in just a few hours by most DIY homeowners. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- FRP
- Hammer
- Nails
- Plywood
- Tape measure
- Saw with carbide blade
- FRP adhesive
- Notched trowel
- Laminate roller
- Molding and divider rails
- Silicon caulk
Instructions
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Place your FRP materials into your bathroom and allow them to acclimate to temperature and humidity levels for 24 hours before installation.
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2
Prepare your walls. FRP can be installed directly over almost any type of substrate, including wood, drywall or existing paneling. When installing over masonry walls, add a layer of plywood to the wall first before installing your FRP. This will prevent the glue from soaking into the wall.
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3
Measure your walls to determine what size panels you will need to use. Cut FRP as needed using a carbide-tip saw or adjustable shears.
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Leave a 1/4" gap between the edge of each panel and the floor or ceiling to allow for expansion over time. Include a 1/8" gap between adjacent panels to allow for horizontal expansion.
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Spread FRP adhesive onto the back surface of an FRP panel using a trowel, making sure to cover it completely. Press the panel onto the wall by hand; then smooth it in place using a laminate roller. Repeat this process to cover the entire wall surface as desired, making sure to leave appropriate gaps for expansion.
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Roll the FRP with a laminate roller to remove bubbles or air pockets. Laminate rollers can be purchased or rented from most home improvement or hardware stores.
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Add FRP divider rails to cover joints between panels. These rails can be glued to the wall using the same technique you used for the panels. Add cap molding along the top of the panels to finish the look.
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Caulk all expansion joints around and between the panels using a clear silicon caulk. This will prevent water, dirt and germs from penetrating the FRP, which will help to maximize their lifespan.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are installing FRP over ceramic tile, use sandpaper to scratch of the surface of the tile first. This will help the adhesive adhere better to the surface. When installing over masonry, it is not always possible to add a layer of plywood first. In this case, use nylon drive rivets to install the panels rather than FRP adhesive. Pre-drill holes in the FRP using a carbide-tip drill, making each hole 1/8" larger than the shaft of the rivet.
