- Preparation for work
- How to install the panels?
- Frame making
- Panel installation
MDF panels have many positive properties, thanks to which they are becoming increasingly popular and widespread. Among others - low cost and environmental friendliness. Almost anyone can install these panels themselves. It's pretty simple work, which requires only sufficient care. You can decorate walls using MDF panels without having any special professional skills in repair or woodworking.
Diagram of fittings for plastic panels.
What are MDF panels for walls?
For MDF production wood processing industry waste is used. However, they differ significantly from fiberboard and chipboard both in their manufacturing method and in their characteristics. No binders are used in their production; the production technology is based on the method of hot and dry pressing of wood. The use of this processing method ensures that the fibers and lignin tubes that make up the wood are exposed to high temperature and pressures are interlocked due to the resulting plasticity. In its structure, MDF resembles a kind of wood felt.
with their own mechanical properties MDF is inferior to most similar materials; their trump card is environmental friendliness, which is achieved by refusing to use astringent chemicals in their production. This is the ideal material for interior decoration. When working with this material, you must adhere to the same rules as when working with wood. To glue MDF panels, the same glue is used as for wood. However, liquid nails are an adhesive specifically developed for MDF. This glue contains sawdust, due to which it can be used not only for gluing, but also for putty various defects, for example cracks. In addition, this glue can be used to seal the heads of self-tapping screws.
Related article: How to make a bath screen
When purchasing materials, pay attention to the consistency of the color of the glue and the decorative finish of the MDF panels. Otherwise the glue may damage appearance finishing.
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Preparation for work
Installation diagram of MDF panels.
Installation of panels is carried out mainly using conventional household tools, which are in every home. From specific devices you will need a plumb line, which you can make yourself. To do this, simply tie a fishing line or strong thread tightly around the nut. In addition, stock up on a building level, a tape measure and a drill attachment that allows you to screw in self-tapping screws. You will need the latter if you do not have a special screwdriver. You may need a metal square with sides of different thicknesses, also called a bench square. You will need it to simplify the cutting of panels for the design of slopes. It is used like this: the cut is made based on a leg of smaller thickness, and a thicker leg is used as a stop.
You can cut the panels electric jigsaw or manual circular saw. If you have to buy these tools, then keep in mind that the cost of a saw with a cutting depth of 12 mm is significantly higher than the cost of a jigsaw. However, you should also consider the versatility of the saw. When replacing blades, it can be used to cut a wide variety of materials. In addition, the saw is compact and easy to use.
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How to install the panels?
Before installing MDF wall panels, they must be calculated and purchased in required quantity. Determining how much material is needed is quite simple. To do this, it is enough to calculate the surface area that will be covered and add 15% in reserve.
Installation diagram of a suspended ceiling made of PVC panels.
Inspect the room before starting work. If it has ever become damp, the wall covering is swollen or cracked, the plaster has noticeable unevenness, or the thickness of the plaster layer is less than 1.2 cm, then careful surface preparation is necessary. To do this, you need to completely clean the main wall of plaster and remove the baseboards.
Related article: How to install an interior door frame with your own hands
There are 2 ways to install MDF. The first involves the installation of a sheathing on which the panels will be attached, and the second will require special galvanized profiles.
Installing wooden sheathing is easier than installing profiles.
Scheme of additional profiles.
It will require less hardware for fastening, but its cost is higher than the cost of profiles. When making wooden sheathing, slats or slabs must be soaked in a special antifungal composition, and also treated with materials that will protect them from rot and mold.
It is not recommended to use the crate in brick houses and in damp rooms, since ideal conditions are created for pests in the space between the wall and the cladding. You won't notice that the finish is damaged until mold or mildew appears, and when this happens, it will have already spread widely. Harmful particles can penetrate the sheathing through the pores of the brick.
For the manufacture of metal frame you will need U-shaped profiles: guides and regular ones (UD and CD, respectively). The main difference between them is the cross-sectional configuration.
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Frame making
Dowels or self-tapping screws are used to attach the wooden sheathing to the wall. For metal sheathing, only self-tapping screws are used. The diameter of the fastener should be from 4 to 6 mm, depending on the strength of the base wall: the stronger, the smaller the diameter. The fastening element must be driven into the base wall by at least 3 cm. That is, if the thickness of the MDF panel is 1.6 cm, the thickness of the lathing element is 4 cm, and the wall is coated with plaster with a layer of 1.2 cm, then it is permissible to use self-tapping screws or dowels long not less than 10 cm.
Installation of wooden sheathing begins with the installation of vertical posts. They are placed in each corner in pairs, so that an angle is formed between them. Also vertical racks located on the sides of the door and window openings the entire height of the room. They must be positioned strictly vertically. You can check this with a plumb line.
When finishing walls, a lot of time is spent leveling the surface. Therefore, for those who wish to carry out a major repair or make a new department after construction of the facility, it is very important to simplify this task. One of the most common materials for leveling is plasterboard. However, it cannot provide high structural strength, and must also be replaced after removing the adhesive-based decorative trim. A more advantageous material in this situation is MDF. It is made with or without a decorative layer applied, allowing you to create your own colors. Decorating walls with MDF panels with your own hands is quite simple and does not require special skills or abilities in carrying out facing work.
Installation technology
Before installation work It is necessary to lay the panels in the room so that they can acquire normal humidity. This will prevent the formation of cracks at the joints or the appearance of mechanical stress. When the temperature changes by 300C, the elongation can be up to 10 mm. The walls must be treated with special impregnations. They destroy harmful microorganisms and do not allow them to develop further.
MDF is mounted on a wooden or metal profile sheathing. This allows not only to create a strong and reliable design, and also ensure ventilation of the main wall material. Wooden lathing is more common, since its properties are close to MDF, and it is also relatively cheap. However, if the bars have not been dried naturally, then during use they may bend, and the MDF sheet may, at best, come off, and at worst, become damaged. Due to the fact that the wall may become damp, it is necessary to lay a waterproofing layer. As a result, mold and mildew will not form in the niche. Additionally, you can lay a thermal insulation layer to increase the energy efficiency of the room. Usually mineral wool mats or polystyrene foam are laid.
If the main walls are initially flat, then you can refuse to install the sheathing, choosing to mount it on an adhesive base. The amount of deviation from evenness should be no more than 3 mm/m2. In addition, with this installation method it will not be possible to install a thermal insulation layer.
If you attach MDF to a metal profile with your own hands, you will need to purchase additional special fasteners. They are specially shaped end switches and connectors that snap quickly and reliably, resulting in the panels being securely fastened.
We calculate the quantity of materials
The first step is to measure the length and width of the walls using a tape measure. It is worth doing this for each of them, since they may differ slightly in size. After this, you need to calculate the number of slats for the sheathing. Draw a sketch on paper in accordance with the scale, and then evenly place the slats in a horizontal or vertical position. At the same time, the distance between them is kept the same within 40-50 cm, taking into account the tight fit of the upper and lower planks to the floor and ceiling. The panels are installed perpendicular to the guides.
The cross-section of the wooden beams of the sheathing is selected taking into account the magnitude of the maximum unevenness of the wall, as well as the need to ensure sufficient structural strength. Therefore, in the case of wooden bars, the cross-section must be at least 25x40 mm, and for a metal profile with a shelf width of 20 mm and a steel thickness of 2 mm.
The number of MDF panels is determined taking into account their size and the best location along the walls in order to reduce the amount of excess. However, do not forget about observing the pattern when choosing panels with decorative finishes. The stock quantity of material must be at least 20% of the total quantity.
We carry out preparatory work
If construction or dismantling work was carried out before installing MDF panels, then it is necessary to remove dirt and wipe dust from the walls. If there are problem areas on the wall that peel off or crack, you need to determine how reliable they are and whether they will fall off during the installation of the crate. To do this, just tap them with a hammer.
Before attaching MDF wall panels to an adhesive base, it is necessary to determine the degree of deviation of the surface from ideally smooth. The simplest, but inaccurate method is to shine a flashlight from the corners of the wall and determine the places where shadows are created. Then, using a tape measure, you need to approximately measure their size. For deviations of more than 4 mm, you will have to perform partial alignment or install a crate. You will also need to brush off the old finish with abrasive material.
After that, the surface of the walls is treated with antiseptic impregnations. During the time until they dry it is necessary with the help of laser level determine the places for attaching the crate, and apply the appropriate marks with a marker. In the absence of a laser level, a tape measure is used to measure distances, and with the help of a level, align them relative to the horizontal or vertical.
The wooden sheathing must be treated with impregnations against pests and fungi, and then painted. This will significantly extend its service life. It is not worth cutting them in advance, just like MDF panels, since it is quite difficult to determine their exact dimensions. The material should be prepared as the installation work progresses in order to minimize the amount of waste, and the connecting seams are obtained without visible gaps.
Installation of sheathing
Installation begins from the floor if the sheathing is horizontal or from the wall in the case of a vertical arrangement. Take a guide, apply it to the surface of the wall, and then mark the most convex places (one on each side is enough). These will be the zero level points. Then equidistant points with a selected value from the interval 40-50 cm are laid off from them. These will be places for additional fastenings, in which you will have to drill holes for plugs or dowels using a hammer drill. For these purposes, a fastener diameter of more than 4 mm and a length of 5 cm is sufficient. The dimensions of the holes must correspond to them.
Then a strip is applied and tight fixation is performed at two selected points. At the same time, make sure that it is parallel to the wall, otherwise the panels will become skewed. Deviation is acceptable only if the walls in the room are not parallel and you need to align them, or there was a design idea to make them that way. Since the first guide sets the initial level, it must be installed slowly, clearly measuring the distances and setting the correct position.
The fastening of the bar at other points is carried out so that it retains its position, but at the same time is firmly fixed. That is, in places where the guide does not fit snugly against the wall, it is necessary to install wedges made of wood or rigid steel beacons with the required dimensions. They can be made independently or purchased ready-made, and the dimensions can be adjusted during installation to the level of the gap from the walls.
The second one secures the upper guide. For it, two conditions must be met: it must be parallel to the wall and the bottom bar, and also be located in the same plane as the first guide. Therefore, they take a rail and fix it at a point on one side of the wall, but not tightly, but so that it is movable. Then a similar procedure is performed on the opposite side. Using a plumb line, they check the location of the guide in the same plane as the one already installed, and adjust their parallelism with a level. After alignment is completed, final fixing is carried out.
All remaining rails are attached in the same way according to the applied markings. You will not need to use careful level checks, since it is enough to attach a flat bar and check the location of the guide in the same plane with the rest. After completing work on one wall, proceed to the rest. In places where the lathing is adjacent to the window and doorways it is necessary to mount guides along their perimeter.
Cladding with MDF panels
First, the panel is cut to the height of the room. If you plan to install suspended ceilings, then the height should be 2-3 cm lower from the ceilings. In case of exceeding the dimensions of the wall, indent from the corners on both sides by 3 mm. This is due to the fact that it is necessary to fasten the panels to each other according to the principle of the spike entering the groove.
The lining process consists of the following steps:
- A J-element is installed in the corner of the room, if one is provided by the MDF manufacturer.
- They take the panel, put it close to the wall and snap it into the lock, and then screw it onto the screws in several places along the spike. If connecting element no, then a spike is cut off from the end of the panel so that it can be pressed close to the corner. Using self-tapping screws or special fastening elements perform fixation on self-tapping screws with a distance from the corner of 5-10 mm.
- Finally secure the panel, making sure it is in the correct position.
- They take the second panel, coat the groove with glue and put it on the already installed spike. A spike is screwed onto the screws. In the grooves, you can connect to the clamps, which are a steel bracket that allows you to securely fix one panel to another. There is no need to additionally screw, glue or nail the panels. Decorative finishing on adjacent panels should fit naturally.
- Paneling the surface to the next corner of the wall. The panel that borders the wall must be cut at an angle of 450 in the end part from the side of the groove.
- They begin to lay out the next wall with a panel with a cut of 450, but from the tenon side.
- The last panel needs to be rounded at the end so that it can be inserted into the groove that was installed in the first stage. Additionally, the panel can be fixed with self-tapping screws along the connecting seam.
Alternative methods of fastening panels
- Apply glue to the wall surface. The glue is applied to the entire surface of the wall in a wave-like manner so that excess glue does not come out of the panel, but forms a uniform layer. Due to the elasticity of the adhesive connection, the panel does not detach from the wall during temperature changes.
- On glue to the crate. It is used in cases where the panels have a decorative coating. The glue is applied to the sheathing in an even layer. Because of small area The panel contacts must be screwed onto self-tapping screws at the top and bottom.
- Fastening with staples construction stapler or nails to the sheathing. A fairly simple and reliable method, but it has a significant drawback - the decorative coating is damaged. Due to the rigidity of the fastenings, there is resistance to thermal expansion of the panels. Therefore, it can only be implemented in cases where the same indoor microclimate is maintained throughout the year.
Conclusion
Do-it-yourself installation of an MDF panel is quite simple. To do this, just take the correct measurements, cut them to size and choose suitable way fastenings In this case, there is no need to prepare the wall surface, except for cases where it is planned to install the panels on an adhesive base without lathing. The most important thing is not to rush when setting the position of the guides and the first panel. The result will be a perfectly flat and smooth wall surface without significant financial costs.
It is more common to hear about such material as MDF in the furniture industry. Now you can often find this material in construction, and as decoration. If the finishing issue remains unresolved, MDF wall panels should be considered.
Peculiarities
MDF (fine fraction) is made from tiny wood particles that are formed into a board by pressing. The strength of such a connection is ensured by lignin, which is released from wood fibers as a result of high-temperature heating.
Such wall panels have valuable characteristics that make them so popular.
- Safety. Since the particles that make up the panel are wood derivatives, and no toxic chemicals are used to bind them together. chemical substances, such material does not pose a threat to human health.
- Practicality. Subject to all operating rules, the panels serve very long time. They perform a protective function, and also improve sound insulation.
- Aesthetics. Different variants decor can be chosen in accordance with the design of the room.
- Easy installation and maintenance. No installation required fundamental change walls and happens pretty quickly.
- Environmental friendliness. Do not require special procedures for disposal, biodegradable.
- Economical. More affordable compared to solid wood products. Do not require costs throughout the entire service life.
- Masking construction defects of walls, wires and pipes.
- Variability. Wide the lineup will allow you to find suitable option depending on preferences, purpose and budget.
At the same time, if a frame is used as a base, the area of the room is reduced. Water, and sometimes even high air humidity, can delaminate the internal structure of the slab. A blow to such a surface can cause serious damage, including dents or destruction. Of course, such a mechanical effect on the walls is very rare, but in order to hang a shelf or cabinet on it, you will need to purchase special fasteners.
Therefore, it is so important to carefully weigh all the pros and cons before making a choice, and to foresee the problematic situations that you will have to face.
Panel types
The main difference between the panels may be the features of their manufacture. They can be divided into several types.
Conventional (also called solid-pressed) - are sheets of wood fiber, made by dry hot pressing. The surface of the sheets is not treated with anything, but is very smooth due to the fact that the fibers are very small and tightly pressed against each other. But their color is completely heterogeneous; inclusions of fibers of different colors are visible, since all sorts of residues from wood processing are used to make them. And the shade of slabs from different batches may vary slightly. This type of panel can be processed or used as is for finishing non-residential premises.
Special ones differ from ordinary ones in that they use a higher grade of wood for their production, and they are pressed longer and at a higher temperature.
These include several types of panels.
- Moisture resistant - their properties are comparable to plastic, since they are in no way affected by a humid environment.
- Heat-resistant (that is, resistant to fire). Unlike others fire resistant materials Instead of phenols and resins, they contain paraffin and lignin, which are non-toxic. These include products marked KM1 and KM2.
- Flexible - have greater plasticity for creating bent and arched structures. They can be single-layer or double-layer.
- Increased density (curl panel type) - can withstand heavy loads.
Any MDF panel for wall cladding can have a coating that not only gives it a certain aesthetic appearance, but also, to varying degrees, serves as protection from environmental factors.
As decorative covering different materials can serve.
- Film or plastic (melamine, PVC). In essence, plastic is a film of greater thickness. The material laminated in this way can look almost anything: imitate any natural material (stone, wood), be glossy or matte, smooth or textured, plain, colored or with a pattern (pattern). The laminated coating can have a holographic or 3D effect.
- Veneer– a thin layer of wood, specially treated – a high-quality product made of veneer based on chipboard is practically no different from a solid wood panel. However, it is this coating that provides the least protection from moisture or scratches. Veneer can be painted in almost any wood shade and has the appropriate texture.
- Enamel or any other suitable type of paint– less durable than plastic, but if damaged, it can be restored locally or the painted layer can be completely replaced with a new one. The coating is monochromatic, but the choice of shades is huge.
Scope of application
Furniture, doors, interior partitions. Thanks to in different ways installation, they can be fixed to almost any base - that is, the wall can be concrete, brick, etc. You can cover walls, floors and even ceilings with panels of different properties.
Solid pressed raw panels are used for wall decoration in non-residential, domestic and utility premises. It is important that the room maintains a constant temperature and is dry. In conditions high humidity needs to be applied special type products. The same can be used to decorate a bathroom or toilet; an alternative to them can be laminated sheets.
Of course, when decorating an apartment or house, it is important that the walls complement the decoration of the room. In the living room you can display all the variety of decor of such panels. Wood veneer or film coating will perfectly complement classic interior. Matte neutral shades will come in handy here. For modern trends, you can choose more daring solutions. Bright painted surfaces or glossy film with a pattern will allow you to place accents in the right places. Practical embossed colorful coverings are convenient to place in the kitchen, hallway, hallway and other places common use where the most dust and dirt accumulates. They are very easy to clean, and small scratches will be simply unnoticeable.
MDF panels can be safely mounted in a nursery or bedroom, since this material fully complies with sanitary and construction standards. And with the help of well-chosen colors you can calm the child down or, conversely, create the mood for active educational games.
IN in public places: educational institutions, hospitals, train stations, theaters, as well as corridors for evacuation of people, in addition to providing environmental safety and pleasant appearance, panels
MDF must have properties such as low flammability, flammability and flame propagation, and low levels of smoke and toxic products.
Fire-resistant chipboard panels can be fixed directly next to stoves, fireplaces, and heating boilers. However, from simple room heating elements(pipes or batteries), even the usual variety will not cause harm.
How to cut?
During the installation process, situations arise when building materials need to be adjusted to fit right size. And to install the first panel you need to cut off part of it (the ridge). According to experts, cutting MDF products is practically no different from cutting wooden products.
Some difficulties may still arise during this process.
- The edge along the cutting line may crumble.
- The film coating may peel off or wrinkle under the influence of tools. Especially if the quality of adhesion to the panel itself leaves much to be desired.
- The glossy surface scratches very easily and therefore requires special care.
If you are afraid of not being able to cope and ruining the products, you can purchase products of the required format or contact a specialized organization (for example, a furniture workshop), where they can help you for a fee.
For cutting with my own hands markings need to be made. For the calculation to be correct, you will need: a ruler, square, tape measure, level or laser level. We draw the cutting line so that it can be easily erased. In this case, the decorated side should not be on the bottom so that there are no scratches on it. We place it on the workbench, securely fix it and start cutting. To make the cut more even, you can glue it with tape, or move the tool directly along the pressed bar.
The main controversy concerns instruments. You can use any tool used for this purpose in the woodworking industry.
Suitable for this:
- hand saw (both for wood and metal);
- jigsaw (regular or electric);
- a circular saw;
- milling cutter
In order to save time and effort, it is better to carry out a large constant amount of work with power tools. One-time work can be done manually. The main thing is that the teeth of the nozzles are small. We start from any side, move the saw smoothly, without jerking. Small chips and irregularities on the film can be cleaned with sandpaper.
How to install?
There are two main ways to install MDF wall panels:
- stick;
- apply to metal or wooden frame.
In the first case, you need glue suitable for working with wood products. It can not only be used for gluing, but also for leveling recesses in places where screws are screwed in. The glue can be colored or transparent.
In the second case, a wooden sheathing is applied to the wall or metal structure. The advantage of wood is ease of installation, environmental friendliness and the use of fewer hardware and connecting parts. But wood will cost more than metal, so this method is less affordable. Installing a metal frame has its own difficulties - it requires a certain skill and the acquisition of special tools.
Let's look at the process of fixing MDF wall panels to frame base in details.
- The working wall needs to be prepared. Remove baseboards and switch and socket boxes. Take care of the output of wires for sockets that will be located on the panels. Damaged wall trim must be cleaned down to the base.
- The wood slats or blocks you will use will need to be pre-treated to make them resistant to mildew, mold or pests.
- Additionally, you need to take care of fastening the planks to the wall. For wood, you can use self-tapping screws or dowel nails.
- We start with the corner vertical slats. They are placed in pairs to form an angle. Having made the markings, we drill holes in the wall for hardware (in increments of about 7 cm on average) and put plastic sockets for self-tapping screws in them.
- We apply the strip to the wall, transfer the markings to it, drill it, and connect it to the wall.
- Horizontal parts are attached in the same way.
- Door and window openings deserve special attention. The slats are fixed along their perimeter, regardless of whether the step mark falls on them or not.
- The evenness of the vertical slats and crossbars is checked using a level or plumb line. Irregularities at the joints of the slats must be smoothed with a plane.
The technology for installing a metal frame has its own characteristics.
- The process itself is similar to installing a wooden one. However, for a metal structure you will need CD profiles and UD guides.
- CD profiles are inserted into the vertical racks (UD) and pushed to the required location.
- Then we drill holes in the wall by analogy with wooden joists. Long self-tapping screws are used for fastening to the wall surface. And the profiles are connected to each other by short ones. The CD profile requires connectors (also called ears).
After installing the frame, laying the panels begins.
- You should start from the corner. The panel with the sawn ridge is placed first, and the next one is attached to it using a lock in which the ridge of one piece is aligned with the groove of the other.
- The panels are fixed with small nails (if the frame is wooden) or clamps (if the frame is metal).
- To attach two last panels That's right, the last one needs to make the ridge less wide. Then connect both at an angle and press on them, straightening the connection.
- The last blanks should be tightly pushed to each other and fixed with self-tapping screws to the frame.
- The gaps in the corner, as well as between the wall and the floor (ceiling) are closed with the help of corners and decorative skirting boards (they can be glued).
To install MDF panels correctly, use the advice of professionals.
- For reliability, the panels along their length must be fixed along vertical rails or profiles.
- Additionally, when installing panels on a frame, you can insulate the walls with mounting foam or sheet foam materials, and increase the level of sound insulation. They can be fixed into the cells between the slats. Such sizing reduces heat exchange with the external environment and reduces the cost of maintaining heat in the room and its air conditioning.
- If pipes are hidden behind the panels. The profile height must be calculated based on the thickness plus the margin. It is better to place the wiring in special protective pipes, since ordinary MDF does not protect against water ingress.
- Since laminated panels are vapor-tight, fungus or mold often develops behind them. The material of the walls also influences this. Brick allows moisture to pass through, so a primer must be applied to it. It is better to treat the gaps between the wall and the panel in the bathroom or kitchen with sealant.
- At glue method installation, the wall surface must be perfectly flat. If this is not the case, the wall panel will, of course, hide them, but there will be gaps between it and the wall.
- When distributing panels, you need to take into account the pattern. For example, the direction of wood fiber. Perhaps alternating vertical and horizontal patterns looks creative, but in most cases it is better to select the details more carefully.
When renovating a house, you always want to kill two birds with one stone and combine high quality materials with low cost. At first glance, such an idea seems utopian, but what if we told you that it is quite real?
In this article we will not only talk about how to cover walls with MDF panels, but also show a short video on how to cover walls with MDF.
Before moving on to a detailed answer to the question of how to cover walls with MDF panels, let's take a little time useful tips. In order for the repair to be of high quality and last for many years, it must be done in compliance with all rules and regulations.
Often, such rules are neglected, and then, when the finishing begins to deteriorate, they complain about low-quality materials and everything else.
Most often in such situations, the problem lies with the person who did the repairs, so here are some practical tips:
- Before covering the walls with MDF panels, be sure to prepare the base. The walls need additional protection to prevent fungus from forming on their surface. This can be done using a special deep penetration primer or impregnation for concrete or stone surfaces.
- If the sheathing for the panels is made of wooden blocks, treat them all with wood impregnations, which protect the bars from moisture absorption and from bark beetles. There is no need to skimp on impregnation; the better the wooden guides are protected, the longer the finish will last, and it will not have to be edited.
- In fact, walls covered with MDF do not need additional protection, but if you install them, for example, in the kitchen (see Wall decoration in the kitchen: choosing a material), where it is traditionally difficult environment, you might consider varnishing the panels. This will not affect the appearance in any way, but it will give additional protection from moisture and mechanical influences.
- Wall covering with MDF panels can be done in several ways. We’ll talk about this in more detail below, but for now we’ll just say that you need to decide on the method even before purchasing the material. The fact is that the panels may differ in the groove configuration, and for example, MDF for fastening with a stapler is not suitable for fixing with clamps.
- Modern manufacturers produce a wide variety of panels that differ in quality characteristics. There are laminated and moisture resistant. Of course, the price for them is also different, but in some cases there is no point in overpaying, for example, if you are covering the walls of a bedroom (see Decorating the bedroom: looking for options), then spending on laminated MDF will be simply pointless.
Advice! If you decide to do the renovation yourself, before you start work, be sure to look at how to cover walls with panels mdf video. This will help you understand the essence of the process and glean some subtleties that we cannot mention due to the scope of the article.
So, we have decided on the intricacies of the process, which means we can proceed directly to installation, and it begins not with the panels themselves, but with careful preparation of the surface and the manufacture of the sheathing.
Preparatory work
In fact, covering walls with MDF is not difficult; it is much more difficult to prepare the walls and assemble the sheathing. The subsequent quality of the finish and how long it will last without alteration and restoration will depend on this.
First of all, we prepare everything necessary tool so as not to look for it later throughout the house. Everything should be at hand, and then the process will go much faster and easier.
So, to finish the panels we will need the following set of tools:
- Roulette.
- Pencil.
- Building level.
- Hammer.
- Wood saw.
- A hammer drill and a drill for it, with a diameter corresponding to the selected dowels.
- Brushes or paint roller.
- Construction stapler and staples for it.
Now that everything is at hand, let's move on to the next stage.
Wall marking
Before sheathing mdf wall and make the sheathing, you need to clearly decide which way your panels will go, horizontally or vertically. It is necessary to decide at this stage, since the installation takes place in a perpendicular order.
If you have decided on this issue, then you can proceed to applying the markup. We'll talk about vertical installation panels, as it is considered more common.
First of all, we need to secure the outer bars, and to do this we find the lowest point from the ceiling and from the floor. From these points we retreat about five centimeters, and with the help of building level draw a line around the entire perimeter of the room.
Now we have the extreme lines, and, starting from them, we divide the entire wall into equal sections, approximately 40-60 centimeters each. This distance is enough so that the panels do not sag and stand level.
Now that all the lines have been drawn, we put marks on each of them approximately 50 centimeters apart. At these points, the guide battens will be fixed to the wall, so you shouldn’t waste time on trifles; the more often the fasteners are in place, the stronger the structure will be.
Construction of sheathing
Instructions on how to properly assemble the sheathing are clearly shown in the video in this article. Be sure to watch it until the end to clearly understand the whole process, and in the meantime we will continue.
In those places where we placed marks on the horizontal lines, we drill holes using a hammer drill required depth. Now, using dowels, we nail the metal braces to the wall, which will hold the guides, and bend their ends perpendicular to the wall.
To make the sheathing, you can use three materials, each of which has its own pros and cons:
- Wooden beam. The cheapest, but at the same time weak material. As you know, wood is susceptible to many negative influences, and subsequently certain difficulties may arise with it.
- Metal profile for drywall. Metal is more resistant to various influences, but upon contact with moisture, it begins to become covered with rust, which after a certain time can appear on the surface of the panels.
- Galvanized profile. The most expensive material of all listed, but at the same time the most stable. The galvanized profile is not afraid of contact with water and easily tolerates temperature changes, so it can be used in rooms with an aggressive environment, such as the kitchen or bathroom.
Important! If you need to cut a galvanized profile, under no circumstances use a grinder for this. From high revs, that's all protective covering it will simply burn out and the profile will remain unprotected.
Panel installation
So, our sheathing is ready, which means we have directly approached the question of how to cover the walls with MDF panels. In fact, the worst is already behind us and the process of installing panels is the easiest stage. You can start installation from any side that is convenient for you, there are no specific rules here, we just take the panel, place it against the corner and, using a stapler, through the ridge, fasten it to the sheathing.
One of the photos shows how the installation begins, and that the next bracket is driven into the ridge. We remind you that we are talking about how to sheathe walls with MDF boards using a stapler, and if you choose clamps, the technology will be slightly different, and you can read more about this in one of the articles on our website.
Next, insert the next panel into the groove, the one we just secured and repeat all the steps. This way, all the walls are sewn up, and there shouldn’t be any difficulties at this stage. The walls are ready, and it remains only to fix the decorative corners. They are mounted on PVA glue. Everything is simple and clear, so we will not even focus on this.
And in conclusion
Well, here we figured out the question of how to sheathe walls with MDF. As you can see, there is nothing complicated or impossible here. The main thing is not to be afraid of difficulties, and to boldly get down to work, and if you still have questions, then you can read other articles on our website, where, we are sure, you will find answers to all your questions.
Wall decoration consists of several stages. MDF installation on the walls will require preliminary selection necessary materials. The technology for installing MDF panels on walls is quite simple., if you follow the tips and recommendations. Everyone can arrange a room.
Every person wants to have stylish and comfortable housing to emphasize their individuality and create a unique atmosphere.
Description of MDF wall panels
Installation of MDF boards on walls can be done correctly, quickly and cheaply, without putty, primer, painting or wallpapering. Minimum construction waste, stylish and practical.
Wall panels have been known for more than 10 years Russian market. During this period, their popularity has not subsided.
The advantages of using MDF panels are:
- wide selection of sizes and textures, glossy and matte;
- low cost;
- excellent quality;
- environmental friendliness of the materials from which the panels are made;
- optimally suitable sizes;
- ease of adaptation for premises of any configuration;
- Possibility of attachment to wooden and metal sheathing;
- indicators of mechanical, thermal and ultraviolet resistance;
- long service life without loss of its original appearance;
- resistance to tobacco smoke;
- ease of cleaning and washing;
- ease of installation if you need to mount MDF panels on the wall. You can repair a room in half a day, without dust, dirt, preliminary work and a large number of special tools.
This building material Suitable for both dry and wet areas. Even when exposed to moisture, MDF furniture will not become covered with mold or mildew. Mounting it in wood will also be an advantageous way to decorate the surface.
There is a wide variety of MDF panel designs:
- matte;
- glossy;
Large format ceramic slab effect
Some tile panels small size. I alternate tiles, different in texture and color, so you can lay out different patterns of any level of complexity.
Visually this will achieve the effect ceramic tiles large format.
Thanks to the panels with dimensions of 120 by 80 cm, it is possible to cover the panels faster. By studying the recommendations, you can give the modules an excellent appearance.
The difference between wall panels is noted by such indicators as:
- dimensions;
- texture;
- thickness;
- color;
- fastening principles.
If the work is done correctly, you can create perfect interior. Interior wall decoration with natural materials is now in trend. However natural materials quite expensive, and working with them is labor-intensive. Therefore, synthetic materials are widely used.
Due to their high quality, they are difficult to distinguish from natural analogues. MDF panels repeat the texture natural wood, create the appearance of a wooden covering.
At the same time, they are easy to wash and clean. And the installation process is characterized by simplicity and speed of work. Panels need to be cut required length and secure them to the frame.
MDF is resistant to moisture. about moisture-resistant MDF for walls. There are special corners to match the color of the panels; they can change shape. With them you can build a platband, internal or outside corners. This kind of material used to give the interior a finished look. You can learn how to install MDF panels on walls from the recommendations.
If the installation is carried out in winter time, you first need to keep the wall panels indoors for several days so that they regain their size. When choosing panels, keep in mind that the narrower they are, the longer the work will take, but there will be less scrapping.
It is necessary to determine how smooth the walls are. If the level shows good data, then there is no need to make a wooden sheathing.
You can simply glue them to the cement using special glue. If the walls are not level, you will need to do lathing.
This situation is more common. What materials will be needed for it? The sheathing is made from soft wood. Preliminarily think about what kind of sheathing will be. In dry rooms it is better to use wood, and in wet rooms - metallic profile. It is necessary to select fasteners based on the same parameters.
Self-tapping screws - if a metal profile is used, fasteners made from wood screws or staples, if you need to work on wooden sheathing. In the space of walls and sheathings you can lay a layer of heat or sound insulation.
How to attach the MDF panel to the wall:
- with lathing;
- without sheathing.
How to attach and install - installation
We mount the sheathing to the surface of the batten
You need to start work from the corner. Laying must be done tightly. The thin part faces towards the corner. The fastening is carried out on the surface of the rail.
You can successfully complete the installation of MDF panels on the wall with your own hands if you prepare rails with a cross section of 20 by 40 mm. They will need to be secured using self-tapping screws and a screwdriver.
The location of the rails must be perpendicular to the direction of the panels to be mounted. In order to mount the elements of the crate, we adhere to an interval of 40 - 50 cm.
Using the mounting level, we constantly check the evenness of the installed slats. If the surface of the wall is uneven, it is necessary to align the crate with the help of such building materials, How:
- plywood;
- beam;
- assembly adhesive.
Long self-tapping screws or dowel-nails are used to fix the surface. This will depend on what materials the walls are made of. This process is also constantly monitored by measuring the evenness of the surface with a level.
The bottom of the slatted crate should be located taking into account the distance of 3 - 5 cm from the floor. This will allow in the future to successfully secure the floor plinth.
At the top, the sheathing is mounted at ceiling level.
- the sheathing is attached in different positions:
- in the corners;
- along the window opening.
If work is carried out where there is a high level of humidity, It is advisable to install plastic or metal sheathing elements. You can watch a video on how to install MDF panels on a wall surface. If you use the “groove-to-groove” fastening method, over time you can easily disassemble the structure.
Installation and installation technology of the first panel
To perform installation work on installing MDF panels on walls, you must start from the corner:
- attach the first panel;
- We check the level;
- We fix the panel with self-tapping screws to the slats along the entire height.
A thematic video from the Internet will tell you how to attach MDF to the wall.
How to attach to the sheathing
In order to fasten MDF panels to the wall sheathing, clamps are used - special type staples.
The clamps are pushed into the cavity of the panel groove and secured using a construction stapler.
It is best to use nails. Constant care must be taken not to damage the edges of the panel.
To avoid this, use pliers. We install the remaining panels. The ridge of the panel that will be next in the row is inserted into the grooves of the panel that is already installed.
A video about installing MDF panels on a wall can be viewed before starting work. Next you need to attach it to the sheathing and carry out the same work in the required quantity.
The last panel next to the wall may not be the right size. If necessary, you can cut MDF panels with a jigsaw or wood saw.
Cutting it out will not be difficult, the main thing is to correctly measure the part that will be cut. This way they will be the right length. By following the instructions in the instructions on how to attach MDF to a wall, you can do such work yourself. We install the fittings.
In order for the MDF wall mount interior to look like a finished product, it is necessary to install MDF fittings. You can close the joints using a folding corner.
Apply glue to the surface inside and press firmly onto the corner panels. After execution finishing works With the use of MDF panels, the appearance of the walls will be significantly transformed.
How to secure without wooden guides
You can attach mdfc panels to the wall without lathing. In this case, the lower part of the panel must be clamped between the wall and the plywood. The top part must be inserted into the starting profile. It is screwed to the top panel.
To be able to further secure the structure, you need to make another hole in the middle to secure the panel. Fastening MDF panels to a wall without slats is done using wooden choppers and self-tapping screws with caps.
The panel will fit perfectly tightly to the wall, and you will be able to save at least 4 cm of space if you install the MDF panel on walls without lathing.
For additional fixation of the panel to the wall, a professional polyurethane foam. The foam will not collapse under the panel, since the sun's rays do not reach there. Spray the top and bottom of the surfaces with foam. The fastening of MDF boards to the wall must be reliable.
The panel is glued, and one additional screw is added in the middle. about how to glue MDF to the wall. This will be quite enough. The strength and durability of the entire structure depends on how you can attach the MDF to the wall.
For more information about installing MDF panels on walls, watch the video:
How to attach a plinth - installation methods
MDF plinth can be attached to the wall in several ways:
- on self-tapping screws;
- mark the place to sleep;
- we make a cut;
- apply glue;
- press against the wall with force;
- install the corner element.
Most often, the baseboard in an apartment matches the platband, this gives the structure an unesthetic appearance. To sharp corners do not spoil the appearance of the baseboard, you need to file the corners, turning them inward.
Do-it-yourself MDF mounting on walls in the kitchen
Can be installed attractively with wall mount. Panels with photo printing are perfect.
Compared to aprons made from other materials, it can be installed directly in the kitchen, adjusting all technological dimensions during the installation process.
The panel needs to be marked and, if necessary, holes cut for electrical outlets. On flat surface panel MDF is glued using liquid nails.
Gives the room beautiful view. Installation of an apron and additional elements carried out quickly and with minimal construction waste.
conclusions
Practical and environmentally friendly MDF panels are widely in demand in modern construction. They are made by pressing wood dust in a vacuum. In this case, the color of natural wood of various shades is achieved.
If you learn in detail how to mount MDF panels on a wall, You can radically change the appearance of any room in the house. Installation of MDF panels on walls, the price of which will depend on the quality of the selected materials and volumes necessary work, more profitable than working with natural materials.
You can learn how to install MDF panels on the wall from the video. This material is so easy to use that work can be done quickly and efficiently.
