Installation Instructions

INSTALLING FRP IN CAR WASH APPLICATIONS
While FRP is an excellent wall finish for car washes, the moisture conditions along with the swings in temperature and humidity call for careful
planning and installation methods.
• Panels should be acclimated to the temperature, moisture and humidity conditions 24 hours prior to installation.
• In such a severe environment, expansion and contraction is more prominent and must be allowed for with proper spacing between and
around panels.
• Panels should not exceed 8’ in length and should be installed vertically only.
• Leave a minimum of 1” gap at floors and ceilings and 1/8”-1/4” between the panels.
• Use mechanical fasteners. Do not use adhesives.
• Oversize all drill holes for fasteners and any handling equipment, piping, etc.
• Seal all edges to prevent water from getting behind the panels.
ADHESIVE
If adhesive is chosen to install FRP panels, use FRP adhesive, which is readily available and formulated
specifically for FRP. Follow all adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations concerning specific trowel, open
time, coverage, etc. The proper trowel helps ensure that the correct amount of adhesive will be applied. Too
much or too little adhesive can lead to installation failure. Apply the adhesive to 100% of the backside of the
panel using a crosshatch pattern. Be sure to apply the adhesive all the way out to the edges of the panel. Do not
apply adhesive to the wall, only to the backside of the FRP panels.
SPACING
All FRP panels expand and contract due to changes in temperature and
humidity. Adequate space must be allowed between and around the panels
to allow for this expansion and contraction. Generally, allow 1/8” spacing
between panels and
1/4”-3/8” gap at the floor and ceiling. Panels longer than 12’ are not recommended.
INSTALLING PANELS
• All cutting or drilling should be done prior to applying adhesive to the panels.
• Rivet holes should be predrilled in the panels using a bit that is 1/8”-1/4” larger than the rivet shaft.
• Base molding, chair rails and handrails shoul be installed such that the FRP panel movement is not
restricted. As stated, expansion and contraction of the panels is normal and must be taken into
consideration during installation.
• Begin installation in a corner. Mark a plumb line 48 1/8” from the corner.
• Install the corner molding and apply silicone sealant in the channel of the molding.
• Apply the adhesive to the backside of the FRP panels using a crosshatch pattern. Be sure to apply the
adhesive all the way out to the edges of the panel. Be sure to use the adhesive manufacturer’s
recommended trowel to apply the proper amount of adhesive. Too little or too much
adhesive can lead to installation failure.
• Set the initial panel true with the plumb line.
• Using a laminate roller, roll firmly over the panel starting at the top corner nearest the
molding rolling down and away toward the opposite edge. Be sure to eliminate any
trapped air pockets and roll 100% of the panel firmly for the best bond.
• Install the divider and cap molding applying silicone sealant in the channels and sliding
the molding completely onto the edge of the panel, then pulling away 1/8” to ensure
proper spacing for expansion and contraction. It’s best to fasten the exposed edge of the
molding to be sure it is not pushed tight into the panel just installed as you install the
next panel.
• Continue this process, working in one direction around the entire room.
• If the panels are being installed only using adhesive, you may use finish nails or tacks to
hold the panels in place until the adhesive cures (typically above the ceiling line).
• If nails or tacks are used, these must be removed once the adhesive cures so that panel movement is not restricted.
• Adhesive and residue should be removed from the face of the panels before it dries. Use soap and water or mineral spirits.
Panolam Industries
20 Progress Dr. Shelton, CT • 1-866-925-4FRP (1-866-925-4377)
Panolam Industries
20 Progress Dr. Shelton, CT • 1-866-925-4FRP (1-866-925-4377)
Trowel Application
No space between
panel and molding
No
space
between
panel
and
molding
Install inside corner and first panel
To remove trapped air
roll panel with a laminate roller