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Warning: All panels have sharp edges, wear gloves and safety glasses when cutting panels
Notes on Installation:
Planning the Layout If you do not have a CAD program on your computer, get together graph paper, a pencil and ruler. Let each square represent one foot (or 25cm). Measure out the room and draw it on the graph paper. Locate on the paper your electrical receptacles. Each panel has a pattern, that when joined together, the panels line up just like wallpaper. For a professional installation, we suggest using filler panels around the border, so that a pattern does not have to be cut. The filler panel should be around the perimeter of the room after the last full panel is installed on all sides. Filler panels are available as one panel that you would cut or in a roll. Your room may be sized so that the final border panel meets the wall; if not, the filler covers the border space. After the filler panel is planned consider using the crown or cornice molding for the final finish to unite the wall with the ceiling.
Cutting the Panels Mark the spot that you want to cut the panel with painters tape or draw a line with a marker. It is difficult to cut the panels with metal sheers, although this can start the cut line. After the initial cut use a hack saw to follow the line. The best is to take the panels to a metal fabricator that has a "break" for cutting aluminum. Remember to use gloves when handling the tiles.
Preparing the Panels If you plan to paint the panels, consider buying them white primed. Paint them before you put them up. Spray paint is the best, remember to follow the directions on the tin - do this in a well ventilated area.
Difference between Nail-up and Drop-in Panels DROP-IN is for a T-Bar Suspended Ceiling. There is a flat border area on each panel approximately 1/2". Most panels are sized at 23-7/8" x 23-7/8". You might consider painting the suspended grid prior to placing the ties. Make sure that the drop in grid is well secured and can take the weight of the tiles.
NAIL-UP There is a 3/8" border area in a dot-dash-dot pattern that allows the panels to overlap and nest together Most panels have a size of 24-3/8" x 24-3/8".
Installing Nail Up Panels The condition of your ceiling is very important. If it is regular drywall make sure that all drywall is well secured and can handle the weight. Consult with a professional before installing the tiles. If you have lathe and plaster, it is recommended that you install plywood sheets screwed to the ceiling joists to create a smooth medium to attach the panels to. For regular drywall, you might consider using a construction adhesive or a clear silicone in addition to the nails. Nail in on a slight angle for the best way to counteract gravity. Yes gravity, remember the tiles are suspended and we do not want them to fall. So use nails every 6 inches on the border. Overlap each panel on the next. Check that the construction adhesive is good for metal products.
Warning: Before you start nailing into the ceiling get a stud / electrical probe to mark the studs and find any electrical wires that are above the drywall. You do not want to nail into an electrical wire that is not properly installed. The wire should be running through holes in the ceiling joists well secured on sitting on the drywall. After using the probe turn off the ceiling power for safety.
Installing Kitchen Backsplashes We recommend using the clear coated panels for backsplashes. Although the panels are made of aluminum and will not rust, they can oxidize slightly loosing their sheen over time. The condition of your existing back splash is important. Make sure it is clean of debris. If you are covering old ceramic tiles you might want to remove them as it is not possible to nail into them. For a drywall base, you can glue the aluminum tiles with construction adhesive or clear silicone then nail them up.
Turn off the power to the backsplash area and have your licensed electrician remove the cover plates of the wall plugs and switches. In certain circumstances you may have to move the receptacle or switch forward towards you slightly, although the panels are thin. Prepare the backsplash tiles by precutting the positions of electrical receptacles. The easiest way is to make a paper pattern that you can then use to mark where the receptacles will be on the panels. Pre-drill into the tin panel where the receptacles is to be surrounded. Use a metal drill to make a pilot hole to allow you saw to be used for the cut out. Always wear safety glasses when cutting metal. After installation, run a bead of clear silicone along the intersection of the countertop and the backsplash.
Lighting: Cut the panels out for the ceiling receptacles. Do not nail into any wires. Always use a licensed electrician for any electrical work. Consider one of our ceiling medallions as a final touch for your project.
These notes are intended as helpful suggestions only. Only you can assess your ceiling conditions, you should consult with a local local professional to review your installation methods before installing. Always put safety first.
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