How To Install FRP Panels On Drywall

HOW TO INSTALL FRP PANELS ON DRYWALL

As we’ve mentioned before, ​installing FRP panels​ may look easy, but if the proper steps aren’t taken the results can be disastrous. Installing FRP panels over drywall is especially tricky, because drywall – and the joint compound – needs to be smooth, dust-free, clean, and dry before applying the panel…and that can be hard to maintain with drywall.

But don’t worry, if you’re about to begin installing FRP panels over drywall we’ve got you covered. Here is a basic, step-by-step guide to FRP panel installation.

7 Steps to Installing FRP Panels on Drywall Step 1: If the drywall is new, make sure any joint compound has completely dried, then sand it to be perfectly level with the surrounding drywall. If the drywall has been around for a while, check the surface for any bumps or dents and fill them in with joint compound, sanding down bumps till the wall is perfectly even. Once the drywall surface is completely smooth, wipe the walls with a slightly damp cloth to remove any joint compound dust and other particles that may be clinging to the wall. After you’ve wiped the wall thoroughly, give the drywall some time to dry completely form the wipe-down.

Step 2: While the drywall is…well, drying…read up on the installation instructions and make sure you have the required tools and materials on-hand. You’ll have a limited time to place the panel on the wall after applying the adhesive, so you don’t want to waste time searching for a tool or checking the instructions. Also it’s worth noting that not all adhesive is the same and some panel types require fasteners along with adhesive, so

double-checking your materials is essential. Make sure you have everything you need before you begin the installation process.

Step 3: Measure the wall space where you’ll be installing the FRP panels. DO NOT FORGET to leave some space in between the panels to allow them to expand and contract as needed. If you don’t leave at least 1/8 of an inch between panels and 1/4 inch between the panels and the floor and ceiling, you’ll find that the panels will bubble, buckle, and start pulling away from the wall underneath. Once you have the exact measurements, cut the FRP panels to fit with a saw.

Step 4: Since you are dealing with an adhesive that dries quickly, you’ll be installing the panels one at a time, spreading the glue, placing the panel, and pressing it firmly to the wall before moving to the next section. Spread the adhesive on the FRP panel itself – NOT the wall – using a trowel that quickly and thoroughly spreads the glue evenly across every inch. DO NOT leave any spots without adhesive, as that will create an air bubble and weaken the panel’s grip on the wall. Once the adhesive is evenly spread, carefully place the panel against the wall.

Step 5: Once you’ve placed the panel exactly where you want on the wall, use a roller to press the panel firmly against the wall. You can use your hand or a firm flat object as an alternative to a roller, but just be careful to press firmly against every inch of the panel/wall. When rolling or pressing, start from the middle of the panel and work your way out to the edges, as this will help extract any air pockets.

Step 6: Once the panel has been firmly affixed to the wall with the adhesive, use the recommended supplementary fasteners, if the type of FRP panels you’re installing calls for it.

Step 7: Do the same with the next panel, making sure to leave the recommended amount of space (1/8 between panels, 1/4 between panels and

floor/ceiling) in between the second panel and the first. Remember to always spread the adhesive evenly and thoroughly, and to firmly press every inch of the installed panel against the wall firmly.

Step 8: Once all the FRP panels are attached to the walls, use a moisture-resistant sealant​ to seal the panel edges along the floor and ceiling and around any pipe or wiring holes. You can also use FRP panel ​trim and molding​ for a clean, professional finish.

And then you’re done! Your new FRP panels have replaced the drywall exterior and are ready to impress the eye of the beholder!

Need more assistance with FRP panels?

We’ve got a lot more info on the installation of FRP panels, their accompanying accessories, and the materials and tools available for installation, just head to our ​Resources page​ and start browsing.

If you need assistance from a professional with your FRP panels to drywall project, we’ve got 35 years of experience under our belt and that means we’ve probably got the answers you need. ​Contact us​ with any questions or requests!

Source: ​https://www.frpshop.com/how-to-install-frp-panels-drywall/