*Cement and cement blocks are porous making it necessary to apply Barker adhesive onto both the panel & the wall. You will need to double your adhesive requirements for these types of surfaces.
Cutting:
Cut panels with a fine tooth handsaw or circular saw. A Carbide-tipped blade is recommended. It is very important to use sharp equipment. Be careful that the panel does not break or tear as you reach the end of your cut. After cutting, temporarily place panels on wall to check for proper fit before applying adhesive. Leave a caulking space of 1/8" - 1/4" between panels and at the top and bottom for 100% silicone sealant. Place cut edges in the corners. Never force panels into position.
A holesaw is an excellent choice for cutting the round plumbing holes. Remember to seal
these new edges against water with 100 % silicone.
Adhering:
Use Barker Wall Panel Waterproof Adhesive (1 liter per panel or 3 tubes) or Barker’s low oder Premium PL adhesive (2 tubes).
When using adhesive in 1 or 4-liter cans, apply using a 3/16" notched trowel, spread evenly, leaving 1" around the outer edges. This will ensure no migration of the adhesive to the outside edges of the panels, which could contaminate and /or discolour Barker’s 100 % silicone sealant.
When using adhesive in tubes, apply adhesive to panel in 1/4" wide bead around perimeter at 1" around the outer edge. Apply 1/4" wide bead in an "S" configuration, leaving approximately 3" to 4" between lines. Tool immediately before skin forms on adhesive. Apply panels to wall using hand pressure to achieve proper adhesion. During the first hour check every few minutes for parts that are not sticking. Press these areas backagainst the wall.
* Do not use screws or nails.
Finishing:
Securely seal all edges against water with Barker’s 100% silicone sealant only!
Place Tape
Seal
Shape
Remove Tape
Remove tape immediately. Complete one seam at a time. Let dry for 24 hrs.
Cleaning:
The panels clean well with a good quality spray and wipe bathroom cleaner.
Tips:
»
Check panels for pattern & colour match. Be aware that some patterns appear randomly.
»
Cut panels outdoors if possible.
»
When using adhesive or silicone consider using disposable rubber gloves.
»
Do not use a finger for smoothing silicone. Bacteria on the hand may contaminate the silicone creating mold in the silicone.
»
It is possible to cut a considerable amount off the edges of panels to remove imperfections. Use a sanding block to round these cut edges. Apply a white paint to these exposed cuts before the white silicone.
»
To restore rich luster or avoid hard water build up, apply a good quality automotive wax.
»
You may seal outside edges with a plastic corner protector. Place silicone in the corner of the protector then apply the protector to the outside edges.
