Installation FAQs
For those in the trade it may seem like we are still in a time where bathroom panels are not necessarily the most popular choice as wall coverings in bathrooms. Tiles are still very the ”go-to” product amongst the trade and consumers alike.
The reason perhaps for this is familiarity and not knowing the benefits of using panels vs tiles, how much time they can save in installation, the ease of maintenance, the huge range of stunning decors and most of all how best to install them. So whether you are an enthusiastic DIYer or a well-versed and experienced tradesperson, we answer some of the most common installation questions here in our article below.
Q - When fitting Mermaid panels around the full bathroom, does it matter where you fit the first panel?
A - Due to the design of the internal corners, it is possible to start on any wall within the room and cut the panels so that they finish in the internal corners. For the best result, care should be taken to space the panel joints to avoid small difficult panel cuts near the corners or around doors and windows.
Q - Should Mermaid panels be fitted after my bathroom sanitary ware is fitted, or can the Mermaid panels be installed before anything else?
A - It is important that the bath or shower tray is already securely in place and sealed appropriately before the panels are installed. Under no circumstances should the bath or shower tray be installed on top of the panels. All pipework should be pre-installed, leaving stub pipes at the positions where the equipment will be fitted. Other furniture and sanitary ware such as sinks and toilets should be installed after the panels have been fitted.
Q - Does it matter which way up the Mermaid Panels are used?
A - When using our Timeless Trade or Brilliance panels, the edge details are the same on both the top and the bottom of the panel, so this means that the panels can be fitted either way up. This ensures that both panels have a square edge fitted into the corner, and the edge with the groove and fixing lip at the outside. The patterns used on Mermaid panels are generally random. So, although on certain designs there may be a slight difference in appearance if the panel is used upside down, any difference will be barely noticeable. This can generally only be detected if the panels are closely studied. When using more decorative and our tongue and groove panels, such as our Mermaid Elite range, the panels arrive with the design predetermined randomly connected to the tongue and groove or post-formed edge the layout will then dictate left hand right hand which sets design up or down.
Q – Can panels be installed by anyone?
A - Yes, if you have reasonable DIY skills, it is possible to fit Mermaid panels yourself. However, you need to be completely confident with what you are doing and the product before you start your project. You only need normal tools and your Mermaid order will be delivered with comprehensive Fixing Guidelines. Alternatively, your Mermaid retailer may be able to recommend an experienced installer. You do not need to be/or to hire a specialist to fit panels.
Q – Can panels be installed over existing surfaces
A – Yes they can! Our panels can be installed over plasterboard with no need for tanking, and our Elite, Timeless Trade and Classic panels can even be installed over existing tiles! Due to the nature of the finish on our Brilliance and Metro Tile panels these would need to be installed over a more porous surface.
Q - When do I need to use adhesive, and which type should I use?
A - The primary fixing for Mermaid should always be our Mermaid adhesive which can be used with our Metro Tile, Elite and Timeless Trade panels. Our Brilliance Acrylic panels should be used with Stixall Neutral Cure adhesive. Check the installation instructions to be sure that you have the right adhesive for your panel. Using the correct adhesive will ensure that you are covered by our 15 year guarantee.
Q – Are trims required on all of your ranges?
A – No! Not all - Our premium Elite range does not require trims and is best for a seamless consistent finish, the tongue and groove system allows for easier installation. Our Brilliance range does require trims and colour coordinated trims are available. Our Timeless Trade range requires trims, we have black, white, silver effect or satin anodized trims. Our Metro Tile range also requires trims, which come in polished silver, and colour match options also available.
Through our retailers we have a number of kits with all of the products you need for installation into shower enclosures but for more specific questions you may have please do feel free to get in touch with our team at sales@shorelaminates.com or get in touch via our Facebook page linked below. We have multiple resources available here as well as a full installation video here for whatever guidance you may need.
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