Fiberglass reinforced plastic panels often go by the abbreviated term of FRP panels and are a wall covering installed over plywood or drywall surfaces as a decorative element. The panels come in a variety of colors and textures and wipe clean with only a damp cloth. Installing the FRP panels on drywall is a task novices can perform, since they require only adhesive and molding strips to mount properly. The seams between each panel contain a decorative molding that also snaps into place with little effort.
Instructions
1. Stack the FRP in the room where you are installing it for at least 24 hours before beginning the installation process. This allows the panels to expand or contract based on the temperature and humidity levels in the room.
2. Examine the drywall surface to locate any low spots and depressions. Apply drywall mud over any low areas using a putty knife and allow it to dry. Sand down the drywall mud with fine-grit sandpaper until the area is even with remaining wall. Wipe the drywall from top to bottom with a tack cloth to remove all dust.
3. Measure the height of the wall using a tape measure. Then measure one of the FRP panels to ensure the panel is at least 1/2 inch shorter than the wall. If needed, cut the panel down to size using swivel-head shears or a saw with a carbide-tipped blade.
4. Turn one of the panels face down and scoop out 1 cup of FRP adhesive using a notched trowel. Spread the adhesive evenly over the back of the panel in a 1/4-inch layer extending it all the way to the edges.
5. Place the first FRP in the corner of a wall with 1/8 inch of space between the corner and the panel and 1/4 inch of space at the top and the bottom. Press it firmly into place with your hands and then roll the entire panel using a laminate seam roller.
6. Climb up onto a ladder and insert four to five finishing nails at the top edge of the panel using a hammer. Space them 1/8 inch from the top and insert them half way into the wall to hold the panel up while the adhesive dries.
7. Slide a molding strip under the free edge of the installed panel and then staple the visible side of the molding to the drywall using a staple gun.
8. Install all remaining pieces of FRP in the same way until covering the entire room.
9. Wait 24 hours and then remove all of the finishing nails from the top of the panels and install additional molding at the top and bottom to disguise the gaps.
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