FAQ:

    Can I glue Barker-Tile over ceramic tiles?

    Yes, provided the tiles are well adhered to the wall and the wall is sound.  It is strongly recommended that you sand the tiles with steel wool to remove old soap scum.  This will ensure that the adhesive has something solid to bond to.  Since the wall is not smooth, additional adhesive will be required.

    How do I cut Barker-Tile?

    Use a sharp, fine-tooth (approximately 10 to 12 teeth per inch) handsaw or power saw with a carbide blade.  It is very important that the blade be sharp in order to avoid damaging Barker-Tile's waterproof surface.

    What kind of adhesive should I use?

    We recommend Barker Adhesive as it is waterproof for extra protection and is designed to remain flexible.  This will allow your panels to expand and contract with changes in the room's humidity.  If Barker Adhesive is not available in your area, select a high-quality panel adhesive.  Water-based glues and contact cement are to be avoided.

    Can I use plastic moldings with Barker-Tile?

    To retain the beauty of Barker-Tile we recommend all seams be sealed with 100% silicone. 

    Caution:   The use of moldings voids our 25-Year Limited Warranty as they do not allow for contraction or expansion which occurs as the humidity in the room changes.  If you are determined to use moldings, please push a bead of 100% silicone into the molding before inserting the panel. This will help prevent water from penetrating.

    Can I use Barker-Tile in a shower stall?

    Definitely! Barker-Tile's unique surface is 100% waterproof.  Sealing all your joints with 100% silicone will ensure that the installation is waterproof.  So just make sure you apply enough silicone around your panels and that you fill all the joints according to our installation instructions.

    Can I use Barker-Tile on a floor, a counter top or a ceiling?

    Barker Tile is designed for wall applications, however it has been used with great success on ceilings.  When applying Barker-Tile to a ceiling it will be necessary to brace the panel while the adhesive is drying.

    Why would I want to use Barker-Tile in preference to ceramic?

    Barker-Tile offers the look and feel of expensive ceramic tiles and will withstand years of everyday use. Our panels make installation quick and easy as one 4' x 8' panel covers the same area as approximately 280 individual 4" square ceramic tiles.  Our exclusive coatings are designed to prevent mould and mildew so they are virtually maintenance-free. And there is never any grout to clean.

    I understand that Barker-Tile comes in 4' x 8' sheets, but why the 5' x 5' format?

    The standard North American bathtub is 5 feet long and the width is slightly less than half that. Therefore, two sheets of  our 5' x 5' panels offer you a beautiful, easy to install tub surround with absolutely no waste. 

    Can I cut around windows in a tub area?

    Yes.  Simply remove the trim from around the window, cut your Barker-Tile to fit the window and install according to our written instructions.  After installing, put the trim back around the window and seal around the trim with 100% silicone to prevent water from infiltrating.

    Can I butt two Barker-Tile panels right up to each other?

    A gap of 1/8" (the width of a score line) must be left between panels and along the top edge AND along the bottom edge to allow for contraction and expansion as the humidity in the room changes.  The gap is then sealed with 100% silicone to produce an attractive waterproof installation.

    Tip:   Place wooden paint stir sticks along the bottom edge of your installation and place your Barker-Tile on the sticks to ensure 1/8" gap.

    Can I use nails to install Barker-Tile?

    Barker-Tile's unique finish is 100% waterproof.  Using nails or screws would puncture this surface and allow water and moisture to penetrate so we advise against the use of nails and screws when installing Barker-Tile.  If you must use screws to attach any accessories such as a soap dish, drill a hole for the screw, fill the hole with 100% silicone; insert the screw and cover the screw head with silicone.   

    Caution:   It is crucial that no water enter any holes created by using screws and/or nails. Improper use of nails and/or screws will void our 25-Year Limited Warranty.

    How much adhesive should I use?

    Our guidelines are based on the use of Barker Adhesive or a high-quality panel adhesive. 

    Tip:   Apply adhesive to approximately 1/2" to 1" of all edges of the panel.  If the adhesive comes into contract with the 100% silicone you will be using to seal your joints, it may cause discoloration. 



    There is adhesive on the edge of the installed panels.  I haven’t caulked yet, but I think the caulking will cover it. What should I do?

    Any adhesive that fills the gap should be worked away. The adhesive that remains should be covered completely with a quality oil-based paint. Ideally, the color of the paint will be similar to that of the silicone. As soon as possible, rub the affected surface with a soft cloth moistened with mild paint thinner. If you are uncertain if the thinner is "mild", test it by rubbing it on a piece of scrap. 

    Caution:   A harsh solvent could damage the protective coatings of the panel.

    I see several shallow scratches on my installed panels, what can I do?

    We recommend using a quality silicone-based automotive wax.  Apply the wax according to manufacturer's instructions.

    I am having trouble getting the panels to stay in place.  I press them into place and they move about as well as pull away from the wall.  What can I do?

    First, try "flashing" the panels. This is done by first pressing them against the wall  to spread the adhesive. Then pull the panel away from the wall.  Wait  about 3-5 minutes and reapply them. This procedure spreads the adhesive, then lets the surface solvent evaporate and speeds up the drying time of the glue.

    Tip:   Make "thumb tacks" by nailing 2" finishing nails through the center of pieces of scrap wood. Place the nail in the 1/8" gap between the panels and gently hammer it into the wall, being careful not to puncture your Barker-Tile. The wooden "thumb tacks" will now hold the panel in place.

    Tip:   Another easy way to brace Barker-Tile is by using a spring-loaded shower rod to hold the panels in place.

    Can I use a "jig saw" to cut the Barker-Tile?

    Yes. A jig saw may require more skill as it cuts in both directions which may splinter the panel's decorative finish.

    How do I clean up after all the installation work is done?

    Once the silicone has completely dried (about 12 hours) you may clean the surface of your Barker-Tile.  Simply wipe with a soft cloth or paper towel and any mild, non-abrasive cleanser. 

Barker Tile - Designer Tile Panels

2006 Barker