Maya Ellison
Plastic cladding is a popular choice for bathrooms as it is a fast, reliable, and waterproof solution for bathroom walls and ceilings. It is also generally much cheaper than tiles and other wall coverings. Installing plastic cladding around a bath can be a straightforward process for most DIYers. Before starting, it is important to measure the area accurately and ensure that the panels are flat and free from damage. When installing the cladding, it is recommended to seal the joints with a high-quality silicone sealant, especially in wet areas. The cladding can be cut to size using various tools, such as a tenon saw or a handsaw, and installed directly onto a level wall or a frame of wooden battens.
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What You'll Learn
Measure the area you intend to clad
Fitting plastic cladding around your bath is a straightforward process, but it's important to take accurate measurements to ensure a neat and tidy finish. Here are some detailed steps to help you measure the area you intend to clad:
Identify the Scope of the Project
Firstly, decide on the scope of your project. Do you plan to clad a single wall, two walls, or the entire bathroom? This will help you determine the extent of the area you need to measure.
Take Wall Measurements
Use a measuring tape to determine the height and width of each wall you intend to clad. Start by measuring the height from the floor to the ceiling at one end of the wall, and then repeat this measurement at the other end to ensure the wall is straight. If there are any obstacles, such as windows or doors, measure their dimensions and locations as well.
Measure the Bath Edge
Since you're cladding around the bath, take precise measurements of the bath's edge. Measure the length and width of the bath, as well as the distance from the wall to the edge of the bath. This will ensure that your cladding fits snugly around the bath, creating a watertight seal.
Account for Trims and Gaps
When measuring, remember to account for the trims that will be used to join the cladding panels. Typically, a 3-4mm gap should be left around pipes and accessories, and these gaps will then be sealed with a bead of sealant. If you're cladding around the bath, maintain a 3mm gap above the bath and seal it with shower panel sealant.
Order Panels from the Same Batch
When ordering your cladding panels, it's important to ensure they are all from the same batch. Cladding colours can vary slightly between batches, so check the batch numbers printed on the rear of the panels. This will ensure a consistent colour throughout your project.
By following these steps and taking accurate measurements, you'll be well on your way to successfully fitting plastic cladding around your bath. Remember to plan carefully, work at a steady pace, and always seal any joints and gaps to prevent water ingress.
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Seal the bath area
Before fitting plastic cladding around a bath, it is important to seal the bath area effectively to prevent leaks. Firstly, ensure that you have adequately silicone-sealed around your bath. This will create a watertight barrier and protect your walls from moisture damage.
When working in wet areas, it is recommended to seal inside each profile trim before installation. Sealant should be applied to the back of the profile before attaching the cladding panels. Use a high-quality silicone sealant to seal each joint of the cladding for added protection against water damage.
If your cladding installation involves any pipes or accessories, remember to leave a 3-4mm gap around these elements and seal the gaps with a bead of sealant. This will ensure that the pipes and accessories are not damaged and can be accessed for maintenance if needed.
When installing panels above a bath, it is crucial to maintain a 3mm gap between the top of the bath and the cladding. This gap should then be sealed with shower panel sealant, creating a watertight barrier and preventing moisture from seeping behind the panels.
Additionally, if your cladding installation includes a ceiling, consider using wooden battens to create a framework for the cladding. Cut timber battens to size and fix them to the ceiling at 30-40cm intervals. This will provide a sturdy base for your ceiling cladding and ensure a level surface.
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Cut the cladding
Before cutting the cladding, ensure you have the right tools. You can cut plastic cladding with a utility knife, wood saw, jigsaw, or hacksaw. If you are cutting around sockets or switches, a Stanley knife or multi-tool will be useful. For a clean cut, a fine-toothed saw is ideal, especially when cutting thicker PVC cladding. A jigsaw is versatile and suitable for both straight and curved cuts, but it may offer too much power and cause tear-out. A circular saw is not recommended unless you have a thin kerf blade. A Mitre saw is another popular option, as is a handsaw, but a test cut is recommended first to assess the level of tear-out.
When cutting with a handsaw, place the decorative face up to achieve a clean edge. Secure the panel firmly and mark the desired length of the cladding panel. Position the saw blade on the marked line and apply gentle pressure, moving the saw back and forth in a smooth, slow motion. When using any hand saws, cut at a shallow angle to ensure a nice smooth edge.
If using a Stanley knife, start by scoring across the width of the panel with the knife blade. This technique is best for thinner depth panels, typically 5, 6, 7, and 8mm. Score the panel once or twice using a straight edge, then position the score line beyond the edge of a bench. Place your hand on the panel, pushing down quickly with a snapping action. The panel will snap cleanly along the score line.
When using a jigsaw, select a fine-toothed blade suitable for cutting plastic to minimise tear-out and produce a smoother cut. Place the decorative face down to protect the surface from scratches. Let the blade do the work and guide it along the desired cutting line, being mindful of any curves or shapes you need to follow.
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Fit the cladding panels
Fitting cladding panels is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few tricks that can help make the process smoother. Firstly, ensure that the panels are stored correctly and are not damaged. Check the batch numbers printed on the rear of the panels to ensure they match; cladding colours can vary slightly between batches, so it's important to install panels from the same batch together. It's also a good idea to bring the panels inside 24 hours before installation, as this will prevent them from becoming brittle and chipping during cutting.
Before beginning the installation, it's important to measure the area that will be clad to ensure that the panels are cut to the correct size. When measuring, consider any sockets or switches that may need to be accommodated. Once the panels have been measured and cut, they can be installed. If the wall is relatively level and even, the panels can be installed directly onto it. However, if the wall is uneven, a frame of wooden battens should be installed to create a level surface.
When installing the panels, it's important to seal any gaps or joints with a high-quality silicone sealant, especially if the cladding is in a wet environment, such as around a bath. Start by installing an internal corner profile with shower panel sealant, then add adhesive to the back of the first panel and put it into place, allowing for a 3-4mm expansion gap. Work outwards from this panel, securing each subsequent panel with adhesive and sealing the joints with sealant. If you are working with square edge fixings, use H joint extrusions between each panel and corner trims to create a complete seal.
For panels that need to be fitted around sockets or switches, mark the socket once the panel has been measured and cut to fit the wall. Then, cut out the hole with a Stanley knife or multi-tool. You may need to purchase longer socket screws to fit the faceplate of the socket or switch back to the wall. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the cladding.
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Seal the joints
Sealing the joints is a crucial step in ensuring the durability and longevity of your plastic bath cladding. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
Before you begin installing the cladding panels, it's important to seal any holes or gaps that may be present, especially if the fixture is inside a shower or bathing area. Use a high-quality silicone sealant to fill and smooth over any imperfections. This will create a watertight barrier, preventing leaks and moisture buildup.
When installing the panels, start at the corner furthest from the door and work your way out. Ensure that you maintain a consistent 3mm gap between the panels and the bath, shower tray, or floor. This gap is essential for ventilation and drainage, preventing moisture entrapment that could lead to mould or structural issues.
As you install each panel, use shower panel adhesive to secure them in place. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the back of each panel before positioning it, following the expansion gap guidelines mentioned earlier. This adhesive will act as a primary bond, providing initial stability to the cladding.
Finally, seal the joints between the panels with shower panel sealant. This sealant will act as a secondary barrier, enhancing the overall watertightness of the cladding installation. Carefully apply the sealant along the seams where the panels meet, ensuring that you fill any gaps or crevices. Smooth out the sealant for a seamless finish, creating a neat and tidy appearance.
For added protection, particularly if your bath is in a very wet area, consider using a high-quality silicone sealant on each joint of the cladding. This extra step will provide an additional layer of defence against moisture intrusion, ensuring that your cladding remains securely sealed and watertight.
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Frequently asked questions
Before installing plastic cladding, ensure the area is clean and free of mould, grease, residue, and clutter. If the wall is plastered, use a wire brush to remove any loose pieces. Measure the width of the wall and cut the coving trim to size, screwing it into the lip section of the trim.
Most types of saw can be used to cut plastic cladding, but it's best to choose a tool with fine teeth. A tenon saw is ideal, but a handsaw will also work as long as it is not too coarse. For small, intricate cuts, use a coping saw or a craft knife.
Apply silicone sealant around the bath and the bottom edge of the clad seal strip. Press the two parts of the seal strip against the wall, ensuring the mitre edges fit together neatly, and secure with screws. Cut the cladding so that it is close to the bath edge, and seal with a high-quality silicone sealant.
