Are you ready to transform your home with the sleek, modern style of Trepanel Aqua® Wood Effect Panels? Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens and any space prone to moisture or splashes, these panels offer the ultimate blend of contemporary style and functionality. We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know to successfully install Trepanel Aqua®, ensuring a chic and durable finish. Here’s how to install waterproof wood effect wall panels, from Trepanel®!
Installing Trepanel Aqua® Using Adhesive (Recommended):
You Will Need:
- Circular Saw/Fine tooth saw
- Tape Measure
- Mapei Super Grip Panel Adhesive
- Tanking System/ Waterproof Membrane
- Silicone Sealant
- Trepanel Aqua® Panels
1 – Prepare Your Wall
Before beginning any installation process, ensure your surface is clean and dry from dust and debris. For best results, you may also need to fill in any cracks or imperfections in the wall.
If using Trepanel Aqua Slats® in a bathroom, you will need to tank your wall with a tanking system. Tanking provides a protective barrier that prevents water from penetrating the surface underneath.
If this is not done correctly, moisture may seep into the walls and cause damage, so please ensure you read the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
*Please Note: Tanking systems are only required when using Trepanel Aqua® in a wet area such as a bathroom.
2 – Tanking Your Wall for Use in Bathrooms
You can use either a tanking system or a waterproof membrane that is specifically designed for use in wet areas.
Some common choices for this include liquid-applied membranes, sheet membranes or waterproof boards.
We recommend the use of our Mapei Shower Waterproofing Kit. (Here’s a helpful guide on how to use our Shower Waterproofing Kit!)
3 – Apply the Membrane
Following the manufacturer’s guide, apply your tanking system kit to the surface. This is typically done with a brush, roller or trowel. Focus on corners, joints, seams and any other tricky-to-reach areas.
To avoid leaks, seal around pipes, fixtures and any other penetrations in the surface using a compatible waterproof silicone sealant.
If you’re using a sheet membrane to waterproof the space, ensure you overlap the joints to create a continuous barrier.
As per the recommended time from the manufacturer’s guide, allow your membrane to dry completely.
Conduct a water test to ensure there are no leaks before you get started on applying your Trepanel Aqua® Slat Panels.
4 – Cutting our Waterproof Wood Effect Slat Panels
Before attaching any panels to your wall, you may find you need to cut the panels to fit into your space or around obstacles.
We advise using a circular saw for full cuts, or a fine-tooth handsaw for cutting pieces out of the panels for obstacles.
Measure the piece you need to apply to the wall and cut away any excess material.
Ensure you account for any light switches or potential plugs when measuring and cutting!
5 – Attach your Waterproof Slat Panels
Once your tanking and cutting are complete, our Trepanel Aqua® Slat panels can be fixed directly onto the surface.
For a quick and easy way of doing this, use our Mapei Super Grip Panel Adhesive.
We recommend applying the adhesive to the section of the panel that will sit flush with the wall for a secure fit.
Apply adhesive to the full length of the panel on each raised ridge on the back of the panel. Working left to right, place the first panel with the tongue, of the tongue and groove system, to the right. Press firmly to adhere the panel to the wall.
Take the next panel, and repeat the process of glueing the raised ridges of the back of the panel. You will also need to ensure you apply a line of adhesive down the groove, of the tongue and groove system, on the back of the panel to ensure a secure and waterproof barrier. Clean away any excess adhesive after the panel is pressed to adhere.
For further waterproofing, apply a clear silicone seal to the joint if the area is exposed to water. Wipe away any excess.
If you plan to mount shelves, mirrors or other bathroom accessories, they will need to be anchored to the wall (not the panel) with the appropriate fixings.
Seal around any holes you may have created during installation with silicone sealant, ensuring you maintain waterproof integrity. We recommend the Mapesil Silicone Sealant.
For a secure and finished look around the edges of your Trepanel Aqua® Panels, try the Mapesil 120 Black Silicone Sealant.
Installing Trepanel Aqua® Using Screws:
You Will Need:
- Circular saw/Fine tooth saw
- Tape measure
- Black Screws
- Electric drill
- Tanking system/ Waterproof membrane
- Silicone Sealant
- Trepanel Aqua® Panels
1 – Preparing for Installation
To prepare for installation, please follow steps 1 – 4 above.
2 – Attach your Waterproof Slat Panels
Once your tanking and cutting are complete, our Trepanel Aqua® Slat Panels can be fixed directly onto the surface.
To ensure a secure fit, use black screws. Hold your panels against the wall, and use your electric drill to drive the screws through the black section of the slats and into the wall behind them. Space these out evenly for a secure fit.
Seal around any holes you may have created during installation with silicone sealant, ensuring you maintain waterproof integrity. We recommend the Mapesil Silicone Sealant.
For a secure and finished look around the edges of your Trepanel Aqua® Panels, try the Mapesil 120 Black Silicone Sealant.
What Makes Trepanel Aqua® Wood Effect Slat Panels the Best Choice?
Trepanel Aqua® Wood Effect Slat Panels stand out as a superior choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to their interlocking format. This unique design feature ensures a quick and effortless installation process and a seamless, elegant finish without the need for additional surface treatments. The panels are pre-printed with high-resolution, durable designs that capture the natural beauty and variation of real wood, eliminating the need for post-installation finishing. Our panels are constructed from rigid, recycled polystyrene, making them environmentally friendly and remarkably sturdy. The single-component format means that even when you cut your panels to fit into your space, the slats remain securely attached to the backing, maintaining their integrity and aesthetic appeal.
How do I Clean and Maintain my PS Waterproof Panels?
Maintaining the beauty and longevity of your Waterproof Wood Effect Panels is straightforward with the right care. To preserve the vibrant and detailed wood effect design, we advise avoiding installation in areas where direct sunlight may hit them, as UV rays may cause the colouring to change over time. Additionally, it’s crucial to install these panels away from heat sources such as hibs or fireplaces, as temperatures exceeding 50 degrees can damage the material. For regular cleaning, simply use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the surface. This method is effective for removing dust and spills without risking damage. We recommend steering clear of harsh or abrasive materials, as these can scratch and degrade the panel’s surface.
For more inspiration and advice on how to style wood slat wall panels, we recommend checking out our blog, which is packed with all the latest trends! Tag us in pictures of your Trepanel Aqua® in your home over on Instagram, @Wallsandfloors, we love seeing your designs!
