BATH PANELS – TYPES & FITTING GUIDE
The next is meant as a information solely and can’t be taken as a definitive or binding doc. Producers’ directions when obtainable ought to be adopted, and the installer ought to be certified and have an quantity of expertise and talent.
Tub panels can be found in a number of supplies, and the utilization in addition to the bathtub set up ought to be absolutely thought-about when deciding on a panel.
Acrylic panels – Primary benefit waterproof.
These are moulded sheets manufactured by the bathtub firms to accompany their bathtub ranges. The sizes are restricted and can enable little or no adjustment to top; it’s due to this fact crucial that they’re equipped for becoming concurrently the bathtub.
The fitter should examine that the peak restriction is not going to have an effect on the plumbing necessities ,and that the ground is comparatively degree. An allowance for the thickness of the ground overlaying also needs to be thought-about.
Some acrylic panels are equipped with clips that match to the ground or underneath the bathtub rim, however it’s advisable {that a} sub body is constructed to maintain the panel in place and help reinforcement. Entrance and finish panel combos are comparatively straightforward as most acrylic panels have moulded ends because of this. Use ‘Velcro’ to carry the panel in place which permits quick access to the plumbing.
Minimize with a superb tooth noticed if obligatory.
Aftercare – Clear with cleaning soap and water.
Small scratches will be polished out with a rubbing compound.
Clip on veneers or ‘wrapped’ panels – usually obtainable with free plinths which permit top adjustment.
The same old thickness of those panels is between 15 and 20mm, which implies that with some bathtub constructions the help legs and cradles can impede the panel. An preliminary examine is advisable, remembering to take into accounts the free plinth which is fastened to the again of the principle panel (successfully doubling the thickness at this level). A flush end is suggested. Though it’s not incorrect to have the panel protruding over the bathtub rim, it will end in water amassing on the ledge and, in time, penetrating the panel.
Though these panels are comparatively stable, a sub body of no less than flooring and wall battens ought to be used.
The benefit of a free plinth can’t be underneath estimated. With the proper order of set up being beneficial as:
1. The tub
2. The plumbing.
3. The ground overlaying
4. The tub panel
Because the panel is left till final it wants to suit exactly. A free plinth permits the tolerance misplaced with a hard and fast panel.
Adjusting the peak of the panel with a free plinth.
Measure the panel and plinth top, and permit for the plinth to suit and repair behind the principle panel with an acceptable overlap (usually a minimal of 40mm); this provides the utmost top. Now measure the peak of the bathtub from the ground to underneath the rim at each ends; if these range and the bathtub is degree then the ground might be out. If the ground will not be but fitted, it’s best to not match the bathtub panel, however an allowance might be made if the schedule will not allow the delay.
Chopping the panel.
Wherever potential slicing ought to be prevented. It compromises the water resistance of the end, and might enable water behind the end, inflicting lifting, and also will enable water into the sub construction of the panel. Take particular care when becoming a sectioned or detailed panel right into a recess, to centralise the panel, by slicing each side equally.
The place cuts are obligatory mark and rating the road to be lower to keep away from splintering. Use a superb tooth noticed.
Seal all cuts with a water-resistant varnish; failure will invalidate the guarantee.
Silicone alongside these cuts when the panel is fitted as it’s inevitable they are going to be splashed.
If the bathtub or its body prevents the panel sitting fully underneath the rim, the panel will be notched or machine rebated (if the obstruction runs the complete size of the bathtub as with softwood strengthening battens fitted underneath the rim of many baths). A rebate must not ever be greater than half the thickness of the panel body, or encroach into any panelled element which is thinner than the body. The rebate should then be sealed with varnish and the highest edge with silicone sealant.