Internal Cladding and PVC

Wall Panels 

 

Transforming your living space has never been easier with plastic wall cladding. This innovative interior design solution offers a quick and affordable way to give any room a fresh, modern look. Plastic wall cladding combines durability and style, providing homeowners with a versatile option to revamp their walls without the need for extensive renovations.

PVC wall cladding stands out for its water-resistant properties and sound-absorbing qualities, making it an ideal choice for various areas of the home. From bathrooms to living rooms, these decorative wall panels offer endless possibilities to create stunning interiors. This article will guide readers through the process of choosing the right plastic wall panelling, preparing walls for installation, and the step-by-step installation process. It will also cover finishing touches and maintenance tips to keep your new interior Pvc wall cladding looking its best for years to come.

Choosing the Right Plastic Wall Cladding

Selecting the perfect plastic wall cladding for an interior makeover involves considering various factors to ensure the best fit for the space. This process can be broken down into several key aspects to help homeowners make informed decisions.

Types of PVC Cladding

PVC wall cladding comes in two main types: hollowcore and solidcore panels. Hollowcore panels derive their strength from internal ribs, while solidcore panels have a greater density and weight ^[1]. The choice between these types depends on the specific requirements of the project and the desired level of durability.

Colour and Design Options

When it comes to colour and design, the possibilities are extensive. Homeowners can choose from a wide range of colours and patterns to complement their existing décor or create a new aesthetic. Some popular colour options include Argyle Brown, Cappuccino, Colonial Blue, Misty Grey, Pale Blue, Pale Gold, Sand, Slate Grey, Storm Grey, White, Sage Green, and Anthracite Grey ^[2]. 

The finish of the panels is another crucial consideration. Options include gloss, high gloss, or matt finishes, each of which can significantly impact the room's appearance and how light interacts with the surfaces ^[3].

Measuring Your Space

Accurate measurements are essential for a successful installation. To measure for PVC wall panels:

1. Measure the height and width of each wall individually.
2. Divide the wall width by the panel width to determine the number of panels needed.
3. Consider standard panel sizes, which are typically 250mm, 600mm, or 1000mm wide ^[4] .

For example, a wall that is 3000mm wide would require 12 panels if using 250mm wide panels (3000mm ÷ 250mm = 12) ^[4].

To assist with visualization, many manufacturers offer interactive cladding visualizers. These tools allow users to upload photos of their homes or use standard images to experiment with different colour options ^[2].

When selecting PVC wall cladding, it's important to consider the panel profile as well. Options include flush finish, flat panels, or panels with V-grooves on the side or centre. Flat panels provide a smooth, solid effect, while V-grooved panels create a repeating pattern ^[3].

By carefully considering these factors - panel type, colour, design, finish, and measurements - homeowners can choose the right plastic wall cladding to transform their living spaces effectively and efficiently.

 

Preparing Your Walls for Installation

Cleaning and Repairing Surfaces

Before installing plastic wall cladding, it's crucial to prepare the wall surface properly. This process begins with a thorough cleaning of the walls. Applying a watered-down PVA solution 24 hours before starting the installation is recommended to remove all particles ^[5] . This step ensures better adhesion of the panels to the wall.

For breeze block walls, it's essential to clean the surface thoroughly, removing all residue to increase the bonding strength between the wall and the panels ^[6] . If the walls have any cracks or holes, these should be filled to provide better insulation and prevent weak spots ^[6].

In cases where the wall surface is uneven, such as bumpy tiles or damaged areas, it may be necessary to re-plaster the walls before proceeding with the installation ^[6]. For painted surfaces, sanding down the wall helps to eliminate bumps or uneven patches ^{[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCDg0-gbinQ}.

If working with newly plastered walls, it's important to allow them to dry for at least two weeks. Sealing these walls with a primer is recommended to increase the bonding strength once adhesive or silicone is applied ^[6] .

Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials

To ensure a smooth installation process, it's important to gather all the required tools and materials beforehand. These include:

1. PVC panels of choice
2. Adhesives and silicones
3. Measuring tape
4. Spirit level or laser level
5. Saw (jigsaw and hacksaw)
6. Safety equipment (goggles and gloves)
7. Rubber mallet
8. Marker pen
9. Combination square
10. Mixing device and 4mm notched trowel (if using two-part adhesive)
11. Application gun
12. Wipes
13. Work table ^[5] [7]

Before starting the installation, it's advisable to remove any fixtures such as toilets, vanity units, or shelves from the wall. This allows for comfortable installation of the panels without risking damage to bathroom furniture ^[6] 

By following these preparation steps and ensuring all necessary tools and materials are at hand, homeowners can set the stage for a successful plastic wall cladding installation, creating a smooth and durable surface for their interior makeover.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Cutting Panels to Size

Before installation, it's crucial to cut the PVC wall panels to the correct size. To achieve this, one should use a fine-toothed saw (14 teeth per inch is ideal) or a jigsaw ^[8]. For precise measurements, a tape measure and pencil are essential tools. When cutting, it's advisable to place the panel on a flat, sturdy surface with the face down ^[9] . Mark the required measurements on the back of the panel, making two marks at both ends. Use a ruler to draw a clear, straight line between these marks ^[9] .

Applying Adhesive

The application of adhesive is a critical step in the installation process. For most wall surfaces, a solvent-free adhesive is recommended ^[10] . The amount of adhesive needed can vary depending on the wall surface, but generally, one tube of adhesive is sufficient to cover two 250mm panels ^[10] . For larger panels, such as an 8'x4' sheet, approximately two tubes of adhesive or one 6.5kg tub applied with a notched trowel is required ^[11] .

Fitting and Securing Panels

When fitting the panels, start by removing any protective film from the front ^[8] . Apply a generous amount of adhesive or sealant to the back of the panel. For areas above a bath or shower, add a bead of silicone to the rear of the tongue before fitting it into the groove ^[12]. This ensures a watertight seal.

Secure the panel to the wall or ceiling using screws, staples, or pins through the tongue of the panel approximately every 30cm ^[8]. The built-in tongue and groove interlocking system creates a watertight, flush finish ^[8] . Continue this process for each panel, pushing them firmly together for a neat appearance.

For a balanced look, measure the width of the ceiling before cutting any panels. If installing a panel with a silver feature strip, it may be necessary to cut the first and last panel along its length ^[8] . This avoids finishing with a thin strip when fitting the final panel.

Finally, PVC skirtings can be fixed directly to the wall panelling with adhesive for a polished finish ^[12] . By following these steps, homeowners can achieve a professional-looking installation of their plastic wall cladding, transforming their interior spaces effectively.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

Plastic wall cladding has an influence on interior design, offering a practical and stylish solution to revamp living spaces. Its versatility, durability, and ease of installation make it an attractive option for homeowners looking to transform their rooms without breaking the bank. From choosing the right panels to preparing walls and following the step-by-step installation process, this guide provides all the necessary information to embark on a successful DIY makeover project.

The transformation potential of PVC wall cladding extends beyond aesthetics, providing functional benefits such as water resistance and sound absorption. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, homeowners can confidently undertake their own interior makeover projects, resulting in a fresh and modern look that's built to last. With proper care and maintenance, these newly clad walls will continue to enhance the beauty and functionality of living spaces for years to come.

FAQs

What are the drawbacks of using PVC wall cladding? Although PVC wall cladding offers several benefits, it is primarily suited for indoor applications and cannot be used outdoors. This limitation is due to its low resistance to high temperatures, which can cause the PVC panels to deform, twist, and crack under extreme heat conditions.

How should plastic wall panels be installed? Plastic wall panels, such as those made from PVC, should be fastened using screws. It is crucial to use corrosion-resistant screws, such as those made from galvanised steel, stainless steel, or aluminium, with a minimum head diameter of 3/8 inches to ensure durability and strength.

What is the process for DIY wall panelling? To DIY panel a wall, begin by measuring the wall and marking any electrical switches. Next, cut your chosen timber panels to the required size using a hand saw and paint them. Prepare the wall surface by ensuring it is clean and smooth. Then, adhere the panels to the wall, and fill any remaining gaps for a neat finish.

Can PVC wall panels be painted? Yes, PVC wall panels can be painted, but they require proper preparation. This includes a flame treatment process to eliminate surface waxes and increase the surface energy of the PVC, making it more suitable for painting. Always use paint that is specifically formulated for use on PVC to achieve the best results.

References

[1] - https://www.theplasticpeople.co.uk/premium-cladding-collection/ https://www.theplasticpeople.co.uk/premium-cladding-collection/
[2] - https://freefoam.com/professional/project-support/design-tools/cladding-visualiser https://freefoam.com/professional/project-support/design-tools/cladding-visualiser
[3] - https://www.panelcompany.co.uk/pages/how-to-choose-pvc-wall-panels https://www.panelcompany.co.uk/pages/how-to-choose-pvc-wall-panels
[4] - https://claddingplus.co.uk/how-to-measure-for-wall-panels/ https://claddingplus.co.uk/how-to-measure-for-wall-panels/
[5] - https://www.pvccladdingdirect.co.uk/tutorials https://www.pvccladdingdirect.co.uk/tutorials
[6] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCDg0-gbinQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCDg0-gbinQ
[7] - https://targwall.co.uk/how-to-install-wall-panels-a-step-by-step-guide-for-businessessrsltid=AfmBOop0PnEv3lWKEPOxFNzIJzn14oow12V5FXr3aMlRXecujq1Mx3Pu https://targwall.co.uk/how-to-install-wall-panels-a-step-by-step-guide-for_businesses/srsltid=AfmBOop0PnEv3lWKEPOxFNzIJzn14oow12V5FXr3aMlRXecujq1Mx3Pu/
[8] - https://www.panelcompany.co.uk/pages/how-to-fit-pvc-wall-panels https://www.panelcompany.co.uk/pages/how-to-fit-pvc-wall-panels
[9] - https://www.panelcompany.co.uk/pages/how-to-cut-pvc-wall-panels https://www.panelcompany.co.uk/pages/how-to-cut-pvc-wall-panels
[10] - https://www.dbsbathrooms.co.uk/adhesive https://www.dbsbathrooms.co.uk/adhesive
[11] - https://www.pvccladdingdirect.co.uk/pvc-cladding-adhesives-silicones https://www.pvccladdingdirect.co.uk/pvc-cladding-adhesives-silicones
[12] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=topt4VKSUkg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=topt4VKSUkg