PVC panels are a cheap material, commonly used for the decoration of living quarters and utility blocks. At a relatively low cost of such cladding, the decorative qualities of the coating are quite high. These are practical and durable materials, which are also easy to install - even a novice finisher can install the panels with their own hands.

Advantages and disadvantages

Let's dwell on the advantages of plastic panels:

• Hygroscopicity. Plastic does not absorb moisture, it is not subject to decay, mold does not appear in it and fungi do not multiply, which is why the panels are mainly used in rooms with high humidity (in the kitchen / shower room and bathroom).
• Material has a long service life, it is wear-resistant and resistant to small shocks. Of course, if damage is done with a hammer or an ax, the panels will crack, but small mechanical impacts will not leave any marks on the surface.

• PVC panels retain their aesthetic appearance for many years - they do not turn yellow over time and do not fade under the influence of direct sunlight.
• Ease of operation It is also a significant advantage - the panels are unpretentious in maintenance, you can use the simplest detergents for their high-quality cleaning, but nevertheless, you should not use abrasives and strong acid-base compositions.
• Laying the panels does not take much time and does not require special skills and efforts, even a non-professional can handle the work.
• Low price. Moreover, this is the case when a decrease in cost does not entail a deterioration in quality.

• Security. In the production of panels, the most advanced technologies for processing raw materials are used, due to which the product does not emit harmful and toxic substances. Hazardous materials are difficult to find even among counterfeits.
• The coating is easy to repair- for this it is enough to replace one broken panel, and not to remove the entire cover.
• The panels are very aesthetic- manufacturers put on the market products in the widest range, an abundance of colors and textures. Consumers can choose slabs that imitate the texture of wood and stone. Many firms apply photo printing to the panels, and some manufacturers produce non-standard products that differ significantly in their appearance from the usual "official" options.

• Possibility of installation in small spaces- wall panels are great for creating niches in such corners of apartments where working with other materials is difficult.
• PVC plates are installed together with ventilation grilles and sockets, they are not striking and look harmonious in the overall interior concept.
• Many advantages of cladding with PVC panels are associated with the installation of the frame. Due to the formation of an air cushion between the wall and the panels, additional sound insulation is provided, and the space itself can be successfully used for communications or insulation of a dwelling.

There are also disadvantages associated with the use of PVC panels:

• When exposed to fire, the material supports combustion and at the same time releases substances hazardous to human health.
• The panels do not allow air to pass through, completely blocking its circulation and necessary ventilation. That is why the scope of application of the panels is limited - they are not recommended to be installed in bedrooms and children's rooms.
• In the southern regions, insects settle in the voids between the panels and the wall, which are rather difficult to remove.
• When installing the panels, the use of a special tool is required and this is also considered a disadvantage. However, all the necessary equipment can be purchased at any hardware store.

Criterias of choice

The choice of plastic panels is great, in any construction supermarket you can find a wide range of models of any colors and textures. Thanks to modern technologies, such products are created that can add gloss and emphasize the conceptuality of any room.

What you should pay special attention to when choosing panels:

• PVC products are lightweight, but if the purchased panels are too light, this may mean that you have a low-quality fake;
• there should be no coating defects on either side: chips, cracks and scratches indicate the inadequate quality of the product;
• when purchasing panels, you should clarify the release date and marking - it is optimal to purchase those where these values ​​are approximately the same - even within the same model, there may be a significant difference.

PVC panels are produced in the overwhelming majority of cases in Europe and China. Product specifications may vary depending on the manufacturer, however the following are considered optimal characteristics:

• front panel thickness - in the range from 1.5 to 2 mm;
• the number of stiffeners - from 20 to 29;
• lamella weight - from 1.7 to 2 kg per sq. m.

• stiffeners are damaged and bent;
• the line of the drawing is not clearly expressed;
• the color of the panels within one stack differs;
• the surface has cracks and scratches;
• the segments are of different sizes.

It is quite easy to check how strong the material is - you just need to press a little on it: normally the front side bends, and then returns to its previous position. If this does not happen, then the panel is deformed, it contains a large amount of chalk and the service life of such a product will be short.

• the thickness of the plastic should be the same everywhere, any thickening and, conversely, thinner places indicate low quality;
• the thicker the jumper at the cut, the stronger and more durable the structure will be;
• the cells must be perfectly flat, without lumps or dents, therefore all panels should be inspected, even if packed.

And of course, you need to choose the right texture and color. Patterned options are very attractive. In most cases, a pattern is applied to PVC sheet panels. Typically, it is printed on film and then glued to a panel and laminated. Such panels can have a smooth surface or textured, they are very durable, and their price significantly exceeds their counterparts without a pattern.

The most common panel options are wall and ceiling. These modifications are not interchangeable, the sheet of wall panels is not universal, it is not recommended to use it for lining the ceiling, and vice versa, ceiling tiles are not suitable for installation on walls.

There are no strict stiffness requirements for panels for finishing ceilings - they are practically not exposed to physical stress. Their standard sizes are:

• thickness - from 3 to 5 mm;
• width - from 125 to 380 mm;
• length - up to 10 m.

The parameters of the wall plates are different:

• thickness - in the range of 6-10 mm;
• width - from 250 to 300 mm;
• length - less than 6 meters.

Wall panels are often thicker, because when sheathing with wide slabs, the coating visually appears smoother and more intact (since the number of joints is less). At the same time, many finishers prefer a narrow sheet, since it is easier and faster to work with it.

There is a noticeable variation in prices for PVC panels - the cost of the product is influenced by the thickness of the walls, as well as the type of printing and brand.

Preparation and calculation

At the stage of preparing the finishing work, it is very important to correctly measure and make an accurate calculation of the required number of panels and related materials. This is necessary in order to avoid unnecessary costs for the purchase of unnecessary products.

Installation of PVC panels provides for their location vertically and horizontally - it completely depends on individual taste preferences.

If you decide to stay on the vertical arrangement of the plates, then the calculation is carried out as follows: the perimeter of the room is measured, the width of the door and window openings is subtracted from the obtained value, and the difference is divided by the width of the panel. As a result of such calculations, the number of panels required for finishing is obtained. However, you need to add about 10% for the space above and below the openings.

For a horizontal arrangement, the area of ​​the room is calculated, from which the area of ​​the openings is subtracted, and the resulting value is divided by the area of ​​the panel.

Again, 10-15% is added to the received private in case of damage to the coating, that is, in reserve. Keep in mind that when mounting horizontally, you will have to cut the panels, so you can end up with a lot of cuttings.

Let's consider an example of horizontal arrangement of panels. Suppose we need to wall the walls in a 6x8 meter room with a ceiling height of 2.5 m. The room has 4 windows with a size of 1.2x1.8 m and one arch with parameters 2.2x0.9.

For finishing, panels of 250x30 cm were purchased.

The total S of the walls will be:

(6 + 6 + 8 + 8) x2.5 = 70 sq. m.

S window and door openings:

1.8x1.2x4 + 2.2x0.9 = 8.64 + 1.98 = 10.62 sq. m.

S to finish will be equal to:

70 sq. m. -10.62 sq. m. = 59.38 sq. m.

2.5x0.3 = 0.75 sq. m.

Accordingly, for work you need to buy:

59.38 / 0.75 = 79.17 panels.

Having rounded the resulting value upwards, we have 80 pieces, 10-15% should be added here and we will get about 100 panels.

Tools and accessories

It is necessary to prepare for working with PVC panels. As already mentioned, the use of this finishing material involves the use of professional tools, namely:

• perforator- will be needed when forming the frame;
• screwdriver- it is used when fixing panels to bars or metal profiles (a perforator can also cope with this task, but it is quite heavy, so it will not be easy for a finisher with little experience to cope with it);
• jigsaw with small teeth or a circular saw;

• scruff with an angle of 90 and 45 g;
• stapler- used for the installation of timber battens;
• rubber mallet- required to remove jammed plates; if such a procedure is carried out manually, then there is a high probability of breakage of the crate and the panel itself;
• putty knife- it is used to bend the profile when you need to insert the very last panel. It is optimal to use a tool with a length of 80 to 120 cm.

Auxiliary tool:

• tape measure for taking measurements;
• pencil or marker - for making notes on the panels;
• level - to measure deviations from the ideal geometry of the coating;
• square, moldings, clips, edging;
• elements for fasteners (dowels, screws and cleats).

To grout the joints between the panels, use a sealant and a tool for applying it. Many experts recommend adding an antiseptic to prevent possible growth of mold and other pathogens.

Installation methods

Work with plastic panels begins with surface preparation. To do this, by all means remove the old coating, close up all existing cracks, chips and cracks - only then the finish coating will have a perfectly even and smooth appearance, and most importantly, it will become durable. To prevent the appearance of mold and moss, it is recommended to cover the base base with solutions with fungicides Is a strong antiseptic that will protect the house from the appearance of "uninvited guests" for many years.

At this, the preliminary stage of work ends, then the frame is mounted and the panels are directly laid, and for this, the location of the frame racks should be determined.

For ceilings and walls, the markings are carried out in this order:

1. First, a point is fixed at a distance of 2 cm from the floor or wall, and already through it a straight line is drawn along the entire perimeter. It is at this stage that you will need a building level and a paint thread.
2. When marking walls, exactly the same line is drawn under the ceiling.
3. Further, with a step of 30-40 cm, they draw transverse lines - they will become "beacons" for the construction of the frame.

Walls

When decorating walls with PVC panels, first of all, a crate is installed. Most often, wooden slats are used for it, less often - a metal profile (the second can be bent, the first cannot).

Exactly according to the markings, using a perforator, holes are made for fasteners in increments of about 40-50 cm, after which the frame element is mounted to the wall. At this stage, it is necessary to provide for the places for fixing the wires and make sure that they will not protrude beyond the crate.

In order to create an additional layer of sound and heat insulation between the slats, special materials should be laid. They can have a different structure and, accordingly, are also attached in different ways (with dowels or glue). After that, the panels are placed directly on the box.

If desired, you can use the frameless method and glue the slabs directly to the walls - directly to the concrete It is quick and convenient. However, it should be borne in mind that the surface to be treated must have an ideal geometry - any irregularities impair the quality of adhesion and ultimately reduce the service life of the finish.

In the frameless method, liquid nails or special glue for PVC are used. It is very important to use formulations that do not contain solvents. Otherwise, the plastic will gradually deteriorate.

Work with this type of installation is carried out in the following sequence:

• cleaning the old coating, priming and drying;
• preparation of an adhesive solution with the obligatory observance of the instructions and the indicated proportions of the substance;
• depending on the consistency of the solution, a tool for application is selected - it can be a brush or a paint roller or a spatula;

• using glue, the corner piece is fixed to the concrete wall, to which the ordinary element is subsequently attached using the built-in grooves;
• the panels are pressed with effort for 10-15 seconds and allowed to grab;
• by analogy, all the remaining tiles are mounted;
• attach a decorative element;
• seams are treated with grout or sealant, which act as a decorative connector.

Ceiling

It is possible to sheathe the ceiling with plastic panels in the same way as in the case of walls - with and without a frame.

It is required to assemble the frame in rooms with a high level of humidity and in low-heated spaces. Plates are fixed with fasteners and a profile, so the place of fixation is not weakened under the influence of external unfavorable influences.

The frame is nothing more than a crate with a step of 40-60 cm. As a rule, its assembly is carried out from wooden slats, metal profiles or plastic. Panels are screwed to the crate. This repair is time-consuming, but it can be done by a home craftsman, even with little experience.

Frameless fixation is an easier way, it involves preliminary cleaning of the base and further fixing of the plates to a special composition, that is, the plates can be simply glued.

This is a fairly simple and quick way to sheathe the surface, however, it significantly limits interior design solutions in terms of lighting, since it does not allow mounting spotlights and LED strips, as well as carrying out drywall work in order to build multi-level structures.

Window

PVC panels are widely used when installing slopes on windows. This is indeed an excellent solution that allows you to quickly, easily and cheaply make an aesthetic decorative coating. Thanks to a large selection of panels, everyone will be able to choose exactly the modification that can truly transform their windows.

There are several ways to trim slopes.

With the help of a metal profile

With this method, profiles are installed, which become a frame for mounting panels.

The order of work with this method is as follows:

• along the edge of the window frame, a starting bar is installed using self-tapping screws;
• slats are mounted on the opposite edge of the window, it creates the completeness of the contour.

The prepared panel is cut into the desired size, then inserted into the profile, and attached to the rail from the other edge. The panels must be docked with each other. An F-profile is used as a casing. The advantage of this method is its high speed and ease of installation. However, this technology requires additional laying of voids that may form during the work.

Fixing with glue

Everything is simple here - the panels need to be glued to the slopes using polyurethane foam or glue.

The procedure is as follows:

• first, you should prepare the window well, remove excess foam, putty and level the surface;
• panels are cut in accordance with the parameters of the slopes;
• each part is carefully coated with glue, then the fragment is pressed to the surface for a few seconds and torn off - the final fixation is carried out after a couple of minutes;
• at the final stage, the seams are treated with a sealant and closed with corners of a suitable color.

If, while tidying up the apartment, there was a desire to move away from the usual wallpaper and not mess with ceramic tiles, then you can turn your attention to decorating the walls with plastic PVC panels. Installation of such a coating is very simple, you can do it yourself, without contacting professionals. Moreover, this material will perfectly fit into the interior of the living room, corridor, bathroom, and even a balcony.

Preparation

PVC is polyvinyl chloride, in a simple way, a kind of plastic. Panels made of this material are very popular, since they are not afraid of moisture and do not rot, they are quickly mounted, do not change under the influence of ultraviolet rays, maintain a decent appearance for a long time and, when using a frame, create additional sound insulation. Finally, they are relatively cheap.

Installation of PVC plastic panels always begins with a preparatory stage. First, the material is selected and bought in compliance with several important points. While in the store, you need to inspect the panel cut. If there are thick layers, both external and internal, and a thick lintel, then the finish will be reliable. Panel thickness can also be determined by weight - the heavier the panel, the thicker it is. The uniformity of the plastic is then examined. The entire sheet should have a uniform thickness without overly thick and overly narrow spaces - this is a guarantee of good quality.

When a brand and manufacturer is chosen (it is better to pay attention to European firms), then you also need to calculate how much material is needed. Otherwise, unused fragments will remain (and will be overpaid), or, on the contrary, there will not be enough material and you will have to urgently buy it in the store (unnecessary time will be spent). PVC panels are placed either vertically or horizontally. In the first case, you need to measure the length of the room around the perimeter, then subtract the width of doors and windows from this figure and divide the remainder by the width of one panel. You will get the number of elements needed to renovate the premises. It is better to add a couple of units to this figure in case of unforeseen situations.

If the panels are placed horizontally, the first step is to calculate the area of ​​the room. Next, the area of ​​doors and window openings is subtracted from this figure. Finally, the resulting number is divided by the area of ​​one panel (usually this figure is indicated on the packaging by the manufacturer). 10% is also added in case of unforeseen situations. If the sheets are mounted horizontally, then you should be prepared that the material will have to be cut, which means that there will be scraps.

Once you get rid of the packaging, you can get a good look at the edges and individual cells. The panels should not show any dents or damage. The more complex the image, the more important it is to study the quality of its application - blurred fragments and uneven coverage should cause vigilance. Also, if you have to purchase several packs of sheets that must match in color, it is reasonable to unpack and check if the shades converge. Finally, the material should be tested right in the store. One sheet is folded about 30%, and then unbend. If there is no damage, then everything is in order with the purchase.

Having acquired the material, it is necessary to prepare the walls. The first step is to remove old paint, tiles, wallpaper and layers of old finishes. Then the surface is leveled with plaster. In addition, it would be a good idea to try to repair the existing grooves or to eliminate protruding elements. Having finished with the leveling of the wall, you can proceed to the primer. It is recommended to choose a formulation with additives against mold and mildew. While the primer dries, you can start assembling the lathing, and also bring the panels into the room - they need to stay inside for about 12 hours to adapt to existing conditions.

The elements of the lathing should be located perpendicular to the plastic sheets. This means that if the battens run horizontally, the panels will run vertically and vice versa. The distance between the battens of the crate should be from 30 to 50 centimeters, the first figure is still optimal. The planks are to be fixed near window openings, near doorways, as well as at the beginning and end of the wall.

The lathing is most often attached to the dowels. The length for a concrete wall is 40 millimeters, and for a brick one is 60 millimeters. The distance between the dowels varies from 50 to 60 centimeters. In order for the PVC panels to be evenly laid as a result, the lathing must also be in the same plane. To do this, you can use pieces of plywood or wooden spacers, pre-treated with an anti-fungal compound.

In the event that a plastic crate is selected, it is necessary to observe the perpendicularity with respect to the plastic sheets themselves even more carefully, otherwise the fastening mechanism will not work.

Material selection

Plastic panels are made from a polymer called polyvinyl chloride. Being in a semi-liquid state, this material is laid out in a prepared form, and then a picture is placed on it. Most often, the image is printed on a film that is glued to a panel and laminated. Sometimes an illustration has a certain texture, but unusual designs and decorative elements come at a premium. Another possibility to fix the image on the panel is to paint it directly on the plastic and fix it with a double layer of varnish. This technology, like the resulting product, is much cheaper, but the quality of the picture and its lifespan suffer.

Plastic panels are most often chosen either on the wall or on the ceiling. The thickness of the ceiling reaches 5 millimeters, and the wall thickness varies from 8 to 10 millimeters. The partitions connecting the two layers of plastic are also approximately different - they are slightly thicker in the wall panels. To determine which surface a particular sample is suitable for repairing, just look at the cut. Plastic panels have smooth surfaces, so if you dock correctly, the seams will practically not be noticeable.

In addition, plastic panels are good because they can be used in so-called cramped conditions. They are suitable for decorating niches, door frames, slopes and other places in the apartment, in which it is not very convenient to work with standard materials. For example, using a PVC panel, you can sheathe a window.

The material can be easily combined with ventilation holes, sockets, switches and other "prominent" wall elements. The latter are not striking and are harmoniously combined with the panels. PVC is also suitable for decorating "complex" rooms, for example, a concrete wall on an insulated balcony. It is worth mentioning that the sheets can be attached to concrete, drywall, wood, and other bases.

There are several standard sizes of plastic wall panels. The width of the trim is either 25 or 37 centimeters, and the length is 2700 and 3000 centimeters, respectively. These numbers are the most common, but you can always order sheets with non-standard parameters. The range of prices is determined by the country and the manufacturing company, the presence and difficulties with the pattern, wall thickness, printing specifics and other parameters.

There is a type of plastic panel called plastic clapboard. It allows you to create a relief on the walls that resembles a wooden lining. For such a material, the thickness of the panel is 10 millimeters, the width is 10 centimeters, and shaped edges are available.

Relatively recently, such a variety of PVC panels as thin wall panels has appeared on the market. Its thickness is only 3 millimeters, and the distinguishing feature is the absence of cells. The main advantage of this finishing material is that it cannot be pushed through, unlike standard models. Such panels are mounted only with glue. The material is easily cut with scissors and after installation saves space in the room.

PVC plastic panels are good for almost everyone, but giving preference to them, you should be prepared for some unpleasant moments. First, the material is quite flammable. Although by itself it is unlikely to catch fire, when exposed to fire, it will nevertheless begin to release toxic substances and support the process itself. The panels do not breathe at all - ventilation through the walls will be completely blocked. Therefore, PVC is not advised to be installed in bedrooms and nurseries. Insects can settle in the voids formed by the two layers of plastic. This problem is especially acute for residents of areas with a warm climate. Finally, the panels require high-quality preparation of the wall for further installation.

What can be attached?

As for the question of how to fix the panels to the crate, it is better to avoid nails that can damage the material. The best way of fastening is with clips, but staples driven in with a stapler and self-tapping screws are also good. If it is decided to glue the panels (which is possible only with perfect alignment and priming of the walls), then preference is given to liquid nails, Moment-Montage glue and other varieties. If the panels are installed in the bathroom, then only waterproof, non-toxic products should be used.

Required tools

Since the installation of PVC panels is easy to do with your own hands, you will not need any specific tools for this.

There are a few common items to prepare:

• A drill with drills and a crown for wood (the first will be needed to install the dowels, and the second - to drill holes for switches, lamps, sockets and other parts).
• What will be the fastening of the sheets themselves. It can be glue (liquid nails or the universal "Moment-Montage" are considered optimal), a screwdriver or a screwdriver;
• Saw for sheet panels.
• Building level.
• Knife to adjust the parameters of the panels.

Of course, it is also worth purchasing a starting strip (to close the ends of the sheets or to arrange the joints with door and window openings), corners for hiding joints in the inner corners of the room and other moldings, a sealant for finishing the seams, a molding connector for combining the short sides of the panels in case of a shortage of the length of one panel to cover the ceiling space, a universal edging for decorating the perimeter and other details.

The lathing can be made of wood, metal or plastic. The wooden structure is assembled from pieces measuring 40 by 20 millimeters. The material should be treated with an antiseptic solution and, if necessary, against mold. Fastening of panels and wooden lathing is carried out by using special screws, nails with large heads or staples.

Metal lathing is not always convenient to use, as it takes up a sufficient amount of space. Each wall will lose about 5 centimeters, which in the case of a small room may even be critical. However, if it is nevertheless decided to use this type, then the fastening will be carried out using self-tapping screws for metal. It is also worth keeping in mind that if the lathing is placed in a room with excessive moisture, the metal must be galvanized.

The plastic crate is designed exclusively for plastic panels. Its components are mounting strips and mounting clips that snap together. If necessary, this structure can be quickly dismantled. In addition, it takes up little space - the walls will lose only 1 centimeter.

Of the three types of battens, the most convenient is plastic, which can be used almost everywhere, followed by galvanized metal. The most careful thing to do is to be with a wooden crate and not to risk installing it in rooms with high humidity, such as a bathroom. In any case, it must be treated with a protective solution.

Installation instructions

When the lathing is complete, you can move on to the next task. Wall decoration with PVC panels begins with processing one of the corners. Above and below it is necessary to install auxiliary moldings and attach them to the crate using the fasteners combined with it. With the help of this, it will be possible to create a kind of frame, which will have to be filled with the plastic sheets themselves. The first panel will need to be joined along the length of the wall, so it is cut with a special saw. In the process, you cannot rely heavily on the material, but you need to cut it exclusively from the front side. In order for the element to fit into the frame, you will need to measure its length, subtract 4 or 5 millimeters, and then cut.

The finished panel is stripped of the protruding "edge", and then placed in the corner molding, tucking the edges. The plank is driven all the way, then the vertical is checked using a level, after which the panel is fixed on the crate. The mechanism is repeated several times up to the final panel on the wall. It will have to be shortened in width, and then docked simultaneously with the previous plate and with the corner molding. If this cannot be done neatly, you will have to postpone securing the corner profile. First, you will need to put it on the last panel, dock with the previous one, and then fix it on the crate. If you don't want to work with the corner molding, you can use a knife to cut a strip of plastic and bend the panel as needed.

It is also important not to forget that the material can change with temperature changes, therefore, during the "fitting" of the panels, you should always leave a small gap. In addition, if the lathing was made of wood and wide bars were used for it, then something can be placed in the resulting space between the wall and the panels. For example, it can be heat-insulating or sound-insulating material.

When the wall after preparation turns out to be absolutely leveled, then the crate can be abandoned- it will not bring any benefit, but it will "steal" the required square meters. In this situation, plastic panels are glued to silicone or polyurethane foam. Even in the store, you should carefully study the composition of the purchased glue - whether it contains substances that destroy plastic elements. The starting profiles are mounted on dowels, the sheets are covered with foam or silicone, the bar is inserted into the profiles, pressed and fixed with fasteners. You need to install everything correctly quickly, because it will only take a couple of minutes to fix the flaws, and then the glue will harden.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the lining with plastic ceiling panels. Before installation, you need to find out what is the required distance between the ceiling and the panels - this value depends on the type of selected luminaires. If they are point-built, then the distance should be from 10 to 15 centimeters - this way it will be possible to disguise the wiring and get to it without problems if something needs to be repaired. The places where the luminaires will be placed are marked while the panels are still “on the ground”. The holes are drawn with a pencil, then cut out, and the plinths of the lighting devices are installed. Further, all actions correspond to those for wall cladding. It can be added that when working in rooms with high humidity, the distance between the panels and the ceiling itself can be filled with silicone sealant. It will contribute to complete waterproofing.

Installation always ends with the installation of decorative elements that give the structure a complete look. These include skirting boards and corners. At the last stage, all joints and seams are treated with a sealant.

It can be concluded that laying wall panels with your own hands is quite possible without unnecessary costs and physical effort. You just need to follow the instructions and use the helpful advice of professionals. For example, when cutting and drilling panels, you should always wear protective equipment to avoid damaging your eyes. When working with nails, you need to be extremely careful, otherwise dents will remain on the surface that cannot be fixed in any way. It is recommended to clean PVC panels with a “mild” soap-based solution. Do not use harsh sponges and strong cleaning agents, such as those based on solvents.

PVC panels are a modern building material for indoor cladding. It consists of polyvinyl chloride and elastic additives that give the product flexibility and strength at the same time. This article discusses the following questions: how to fix PVC panels to the wall, and do-it-yourself options for doing such work.

Panel mounting methods

Wall cladding with PVC panels can be carried out using several technologies, this, first of all, depends on the type of wall, the quality of its finishing and the functional load that the structure bears. These types of fasteners for PVC panels include:

1. Fastening products to wooden blocks that are fixed to the wall. This installation method is suitable for craftsmen who want to save on building material, since wood is much cheaper than any other part. In addition, it is much easier to attach the panel to the tree; it is enough to use screws with a sharp end. The construction of the lathing itself is assembled by twisting the bars with self-tapping screws to the wall through the hangers;
2. Fastening wall panels to the lathing made using a metal profile. The structure of the frame is similar to a wooden one, the difference is that for a more accurate result, the bearing profile is inserted into the starting guide, which is fixed at the beginning of each wall;
3. Fixing panels directly to the wall plane by gluing it with assembly glue or liquid nails. Installation of PVC panels in the bathroom directly on the wall without wooden guides is carried out only in cases when there is no doubt about the evenness of the coating, and when it corresponds to the zero level. This factor greatly affects the quality and result of the work, since on an uneven wall, PVC panels will have bumps and irregularities, and their locks will not exactly adjoin each other, therefore specialists rarely use the method of laying products without crate.

The panels themselves come in different sizes, so you need to choose how to fix them based on this indicator. Also, when making such a decision, it is necessary to take into account the humidity in the room, since the wooden block absorbs moisture well and can rot from its excess, in such rooms it is necessary to use the installation method on metal profiles.

Types of fastening of PVC panels

How do you fix the wall panels to the lathing or directly to the wall? There are many devices that securely fix the product to the base, these include:

1. Self-tapping screws with a flat head. With their help, the panel is fixed on a wooden or metal frame, the screw is twisted into the flat part of the lock connection, and subsequent panels will hide its head;
2. Installation of PVC panels using a metal bracket, which is mounted with a special stapler. This device shoots out the clamp due to the pressure of the spring, but it should be borne in mind that the bracket can only enter a wooden block, it is most likely deformed against the guide profile;

1. Special fastening clamps. With the help of them, mainly small-sized MDF or PVC panels are mounted, with a thick lock joint. These parts are fastened by clamping at the edge of the tail and screwed with the base to the profile or bar;
2. Liquid nails or cement-based adhesive. To fix the product with this method, there is no need to build a wooden or metal frame, it is enough to level the surface so that the attached PVC wall panels do not have gaps or gaps along the entire length;
3. The panels can be installed to the wall using double-sided tape, which is first glued to the surface of the base, and then, after release from the protective film, the product itself is mounted. Best of all, for secure fixation with this method, an adhesive tape 60 millimeters wide and wide is suitable.

Regardless of which type of panel assembly for interior decoration is chosen, all work must be performed strictly in compliance with the technology and basic construction rules. Before starting the repair, you should mark the wall and determine the attachment points of the frame or the place where the starting profile will be located.

Most often, a start and finish bar is used to mask the joints and cuts of the panel, as well as to process the inner and outer corners. This plastic part, which is installed around the entire perimeter of the wall, has a U-shape. The end of the panel is inserted into it so that the decorative part covers the factory cut of the part or the lock part adjacent to the wall. It is necessary to lay the product in the seat simultaneously over the entire width in order to prevent cracking of the part and chipping of small parts. The panel fixed in this way holds much stronger, moreover, it does not have free corners for which it would be possible to accidentally rip it out of place.

Fastening panels to the wall without lathing

How to properly attach the product to a pre-leveled base? If a decision is made to glue the panels to the walls with a building mixture for ceramic tiles, then all work must be carried out based on the following algorithm:

1. At the first stage, you need to prime the surface with a special liquid that will wash away dust and dirt, and also strengthen the upper layers of the putty;
2. Next, you need to level all the pits on the surface with plaster or cement putty, this can be done using metal beacons or millet with a spatula. Also, all corners should be equal to 90 degrees so that there is no delamination at the end joints;
3. Starting strips for PVC are installed on the ceiling and on the floor, they can be fixed with self-tapping screws or put on glue. In the corners, if necessary, special connecting plinths with the same seat as the starting profile are glued;
4. After framing the walls with planks, you can begin to mount the decorative panels. Experts recommend first installing those products that are located from the entrance to the room, this technique will hide possible defects in the assembly. The first panel along its entire length is inserted into the corner plinth with the back of the lock; for a tighter fit, you can cut off the plastic, thereby dropping the surface;
5. Having tried on the first panel in place, it must be removed and prepared for gluing. If liquid nails are used, then they are applied to the product itself over the entire area. When using tile adhesive, the mixture is applied to the wall in a thin layer. It must be laid with a ribbed spatula with fine teeth, the panel itself does not need to be greased with glue;
6. Installation of the first product in the starting profile and securing it against the wall. All movements must be carried out smoothly and gently so as not to damage the fragile plastic. It is necessary to press the panel for several minutes until the edges of the squeezed out glue dry, after which the next part is inserted. If the installation takes place on a plaster wall, then you can additionally tighten the lock with a screw with a rare thread and a flat head. This must be done taking into account that subsequent panels hide these screws;
7. The last panel must be cut to size so that it fits completely into the finishing strip and the cut edge is invisible. From above and below, the joint is closed with the same profiles, for this the edge of the guide is bent and a metal ruler is straightened over the cut. During gluing, it is necessary to ensure that the panel fits snugly to the wall, without gaps and holes, otherwise, after the glue dries, the plane will be uneven in this place;
8. The outer corners can also be finished with a special skirting board or overhead corner, which is glued after all the work is completed at the final stage.

Thus, following the proposed algorithm, you can do the installation of plastic panels on the wall with your own hands without the involvement of professionals. Since there is no special glue for the panels, you can use any mixtures that do not corrode plastic and dry quickly.

Scopes of PVC panels

The listed methods of fastening these products make it possible to choose the most advantageous method for a particular place, which is optimal and will securely fix the panels on the surface. Most often, a frameless option is chosen for repairs in a bathroom or a toilet, since these rooms already have a small square, in order to save space, they try to press the panels close to the walls. Attached products without lathing form a single whole with the wall surface and, even when pressed, do not deform or bend. An example of brackets of the clamp type is shown in the figure below.

Sometimes plastic panels are used as partitions, for example, in the shower sector, but in this case, the construction of the lathing is a prerequisite, since the product itself does not have sufficient rigidity. When fixing the frame with the starting profile and the panel itself fixed on it, you can choose any thickness of the partition, depending on the problem being solved.

Thus, with the correct assembly of PVC panels on the wall or crate, an excellent result can be achieved, in addition, all the work is done by hand, and the question of how to fix the products on the wall has many solutions that are suitable for any occasion.

Video

Wall decoration with plastic panels is a popular way to decorate a variety of rooms. This popular material today allows you to create unusual interiors that meet the needs of people with different tastes.

Plastic panels - what are the advantages of facing products?

The products in question are a versatile finishing material that is made from polyvinyl chloride by extrusion technology. Its essence is simple. On special units, a thick molten mass of raw materials is squeezed out through special holes. The latter are completely identical in shape to the manufactured panel. The resulting product is cooled and then cut to size.

The geometric parameters of PVC panels are standardized. Their height is 26, 27 and 30 cm, the width is in the range of 20–37 cm. In terms of thickness, such products are divided into two categories - 8–10 mm and 5 mm. Wall decoration with plastic panels has many advantages:

• a rich selection of decor options;
• long service life;
• easy DIY installation using ordinary tools;
• absence of dirt and dust during the installation of products;
• the possibility of installation on any surface due to the arrangement of the lathing;
• affordable cost of panels;
• good thermal insulation qualities provided by the cellular internal structure of PVC products (in addition, you can additionally insulate the surface to be trimmed by mounting a layer of the appropriate material under the panel);
• simple care that does not involve the use of any special detergents.

Plastic panels for walls

It is also worth noting that PVC panels are resistant to abrasion and other types of mechanical stress. They are characterized by increased sound insulation, fire and moisture resistance, the absence of substances harmful to humans in the composition of products. The described performance advantages explain why wall decoration with PVC panels is so popular these days. Installation of plastic sheathing is not recommended in places that are intended for people to leave houses from buildings in the event of a fire (staircases and openings). This limitation is due to the fact that PVC, when burning, emits strong suffocating smoke and corrosive compounds into the atmosphere.

PVC products for wall cladding - choose according to your taste

Panels of interest to us may have special properties, which makes it possible to choose the optimal finishing material for different rooms in the house. Experts advise installing plastic panels on balconies and loggias of residential buildings that are highly resistant to mechanical stress and seasonal temperature fluctuations. But the bathrooms are characterized by a high level of moisture resistance, they have a minimum of protruding elements (sometimes their complete absence) and at the same time have high strength.

Balcony finished with PVC panels

These rooms, as a rule, have a small area, which increases the risk of collision of a person with the details of the cladding. If it is not strong enough, you will have to constantly repair or replace panels. The materials described for finishing work differ from each other by the type of their coating. From this point of view, panels are:

1. Offset printed on the surface. Such products are resistant to chemicals and physical attack, as well as moisture. At first, some kind of ornament or pattern is applied to offset panels using paints, and then they are treated with a special varnish with antistatic properties.
2. Laminated. In this case, a special protective film is glued to the surface of the facing material. In most cases, it imitates natural leather, stone, wood. Such plastic panels not only have a gorgeous appearance, but also have a long service life due to the special qualities of the film used (it is resistant to abrasion, is not afraid of sunlight and water).
3. With thermal printing on the surface. These products are manufactured using sophisticated technology, therefore, they have a fairly high cost. First, a pattern is applied to the surface of the blanks - a thermal film is applied and pressed down with a silicone press heated to 170–180 ° C. As a result of this effect, the paint goes to the panels, which are wound on coils in a continuous roll. Thermal printed products have an unusual decor and a very rich color. They are UV resistant. Note that such items are not subject to additional varnishing. That is unnecessary. They look great anyway.

A priori, high-quality PVC products cannot be cheap. Do not try to save money on finishing materials. If you buy cheap panels, you will absolutely have to change the skin after a couple of years of its operation.

Calculation of materials for mounting strips - how not to spend too much?

Wall cladding with plastic panels is performed either directly on the surface to be faced (in this case, a special adhesive is used) or on a pre-assembled lathing. The second technique is used more often. It allows you to do-it-yourself installation of PVC products, even on very uneven surfaces. We will describe in detail the installation process of PVC panels using both methods. But first, let's talk about how to correctly calculate the required number of plastic products, fasteners and profiles for assembling the battens. With the correct calculations, you will not have to buy unnecessary materials.

Installation of PVC panels

Determining the number of racks is easy. Here you need to know that the battens are always installed in relation to the products used for wall decoration perpendicularly. With the vertical arrangement of PVC panels, the slats are fixed horizontally, with the horizontal - vice versa. The recommended distance between the individual profiles is 0.3–0.5 m. Having decided how you will mount the panels, you can start calculating. Let's say you are satisfied with the vertical installation of the battens. You need to find out the number of racks required to equip it. Measure the length of the wall to be faced and divide this value by the distance between the individual posts, and then add another support element to the result obtained (for the outermost profile).

If the wall has a length of 400 cm and a height of 300 cm, you divide 400 by 50 (the maximum distance between the supports), add one and get the number 9. It says that to equip the lathing you need to buy 9 racks from the hardware store (there are the length will be 300 cm). We also need to add two more guides. This is due to the fact that the lathing is installed along the entire perimeter of the wall surface. The length of the guides must be equal to the dimensions of the wall to be faced. If you want to position the battens horizontally, the calculation principle remains the same. But in this case, you need to focus not on the length of the wall, but on the height of the ceilings.

The number of panels is determined as follows. Measure the length of the surface and divide this value by the width of the PVC panel used. If you purchased 20 cm wide slats, you will need 20 plastic pieces to finish the wall. Moreover, their height must be the same as the height of the ceiling in the room. When installing the products under consideration without lathing, it will be correct to calculate the required number of square meters. Calculate the squaring of the wall and decide on the required number of panels. The calculation of fasteners also does not cause any particular problems for home craftsmen, who are accustomed to doing different types of repairs with their own hands. Remember - for every half meter of the length of the surface to be faced, 1 dowel-nail should be installed. This is quite enough for a reliable fastening of the lathing.

In cases where installation is carried out with clamps, pay attention to the following advice. The lathing will hold firmly if you use about 20 fasteners per square of surface.

We make the crate and mount the panels - how to create beauty?

The frame for the installation of the finishing material is arranged on surfaces that have significant irregularities and height differences. In addition, what is important, there is an opportunity to lay a layer of insulation under the crate. The frame can be made with your own hands from metal or plastic guides (profiles) or from wooden slats. There is no significant difference between them. The specified products differ only in the method of fixing the panels on the created crate. If you are making a metal skeleton (using aluminum guides), first of all you need to put a starting U-shaped profile. It is mounted under the ceiling.

Lathing for installing panels

The second step is to install the same profile on the floor surface. After that, slats are placed in the mounted profiles. The latter are used directly for fixing plastic panels. The profiles are fastened to the base with self-tapping screws or dowels. The step of their installation is 0.8–0.9 m. Wooden guides are made of bars with a section of 2.5–4x4 cm. The left and right guides (vertical) are installed first. And then between them you will need to mount additional horizontal slats. Fastening of wood elements is most often done with universal screws, stainless screws or staples.

Plastic frames are considered the most modern. Fungus does not appear on them, they do not rot. But the plastic crate can be mounted on relatively flat walls. If the surface has significant elevation differences, it is better to equip an aluminum or wooden skeleton. Plastic profiles have special fasteners. With their help, you can quickly fix the panel without using screws, dowels, screws. This is very convenient, especially when the home craftsman performs the wall cladding with his own hands. If necessary, the panels with fasteners can be easily dismantled. Moreover, they do not have any defects. This means that the design can be reused.

The direct process of installing PVC panels on the crate is as follows:

1. Place the very first plastic product in the corner on the finishing profile or on the corner special element. The panel should be well fixed (with self-tapping screws, staples, screws, depending on the type of frame).
2. Take the second socket, connect the tongue and groove, and install it.
3. Dock all other PVC products in the same way.

You have made the cladding with your own hands! Now you need to take care of giving the finish a completely finished look. For these purposes, floor and ceiling skirting boards are used, which are usually supplied with decorative plugs, and moldings. Sometimes the joints between the individual plastic strips are treated with a sealant.

Wall decoration without the construction of a frame - this is also possible

If the walls in your home are flat, you do not need to equip the crate. In such cases, the cladding is mounted immediately on the surface to be finished using liquid nails or another special one. An important point! Choose a solvent-free adhesive.

Using adhesive to install panels

Wall decoration without the construction of a frame is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. Thoroughly clean the wall surface. Remove the remnants of old paint, wallpaper, and other materials. Putty the wall, treat it with a primer. It is desirable that it contains antifungal additives.
2. After drying the surface, proceed with the installation of the panels. Dilute the adhesive, apply it with a notched trowel, paint brush or roller to a small area of ​​the wall.
3. Put the corner panel first, press it as tightly as possible and wait a while until the glue sets well.
4. Install the rest of the plastic products in the same way.

Do not forget to install decorative parts and additionally seal the gaps between the panels with sealant.