Budget materials are not always the best, which is why many owners prefer more original solutions when renovating, for example, moisture-resistant MDF panels for the bathroom. In terms of reliability, they can compete with PVC.
This is a completely logical question, since wood looks quite impressive, even if it is a panel pressed from shavings, but at the same time, we all remember how well wood fibers absorb moisture. However, the density of the structure should be taken into account wall panels, which are often pressed under very high pressure. After all, even a bathhouse where the humidity is very high is best lined with ordinary boards, for example, clapboard, which absorbs water very well. What can we say about materials such as moisture-resistant MDF panels, chipboard and fiberboard, which many manufacturers make for the bathroom, highlighting their water resistance as a separate class of products.
Decorating a bathroom with wood
The advantage of particle boards is that when using them, finishing time is required quite little, thanks to large area each individual sheet. Decorative properties some types are very high. In particular, MDF comes with embossing and even with . Also, these slabs are perfectly amenable to manual processing (using special tools), right down to carving, since they are pressed from very small fractions, which are separated in the form of fine dust. By the way, it is MDF that is particularly water resistant, but we will talk about this in more detail later.
So, in order for water not to be absorbed into the material, it must have a very high density, and thanks to the dry pressing of very small particles of wood, this quality is most pronounced in. In this case, production is carried out under the influence of high temperatures and using binders, which, when heated, impregnate the wood fractions. In particular, urea resins are used; they are the safest in terms of the release of formaldehyde, a volatile substance that is quite harmful to the body. In such resins combined with melamine, the formaldehyde content is negligible.
MDF boards for bathroom
As for density, it is possible to achieve values such as 600–800 kg/m2, due to which moisture simply does not find cavities between the fractions, which, moreover, are already saturated with a binder. Don’t forget about the natural connector lignin, which is released from wood fibers when heated. Thus, with a sufficient thickness of the slab, you can count on high strength and reliability of the material. Therefore, instead of expensive clinker tiles for the bathroom, you can get by decorative panels MDF, although they can hardly be called cheap either. But taking into account the durability and almost complete waterproofness, the benefits of using such cladding are obvious.
If this material is inferior in density to MDF, it is only slightly, and only because the fractions used in the manufacture fibreboards, quite large. However, the use of synthetic resins, paraffin and rosin in combination with hot pressing under high pressure makes it possible to obtain moisture-resistant and, most importantly, durable panels. Wood fiber mixtures are sometimes dominated by conifers, which significantly increases the material’s resistance to water after pressing at high temperatures, when the resins are partially released from the fractions. To obtain a particularly durable class of panels, additional impregnation with pectol - tall oil - is used, which also increases moisture resistance.
Fiberboard boards
For a bathroom, you can use fiberboard panels of different classes, but bitumen ones are best suited; they are practically not subject to deformation during prolonged contact with water. It is recommended to choose material of such brands as T-V, that is, untreated hard slabs with high level waterproof. They are perhaps the most inexpensive of the acceptable options. The price will be higher wall cladding brand T-SV, which stands for solid panels with a layer decorative covering from finely dispersed wood fractions, and also have high water resistance. The second option is more preferable, since it does not require additional finishing in the form of painting, varnishing or tiling.
This material is the cheapest in comparison with the other two wood-fiber materials discussed earlier. However, its strength qualities are the lowest, although here too there is a division into separate classes. In particular, according to environmental safety You should choose panels produced according to the E1 standard; their formaldehyde emissions are insignificant, acceptable even for the production of children's furniture. In Europe, these types of slabs are currently produced for the most part.
Suitable for bathroom chipboards
However, the E2 standard is not yet prohibited everywhere, and panels of these two classes can be confused by appearance very easy.
Therefore, it is advisable to check the product certificate before purchasing, since in the bathroom with little ventilation, the effect of formaldehyde on the body will be especially strong. Water resistance is the second and no less important requirement when using such panels for bathroom cladding. In this respect, chipboard is much worse than fiberboard slabs and MDF, since the structure is looser. Best indicator standard wood-based sheets have 20% moisture absorption, and average - 30%. But this value can only be achieved when the chipboard is completely immersed in water; in general, swelling is less critical.
There are separate brands class P-A, in which moisture absorption does not exceed 5%. These are materials with special high density(about 750 kg/m2), covered with laminate and, often, varnish, but their cost can be the same as conventional waterproof MDF panels. Attention! Chipboards with the highest water resistance ratings are usually painted in green color, which makes them easy to recognize when purchasing.
First of all, it should be noted that the geometry of MDF, fiberboard and chipboard panels can be different. There are slatted, tiled and, in fact, sheet wall materials, and this variety applies to both regular and waterproof brands. The first option is most similar to a glued board, and such planks can be mounted both horizontally and vertically; in the first case, the space visually expands, and in the second, the ceiling seems slightly higher. Tile panels look like wooden tiles, and they can be used in a similar way, that is, placed on glue. And finally, sheet metal is the most typical and familiar option for many in large dimensions.
Bathtub lining with moisture-resistant boards
What is noteworthy is that for the slatted type it is best to use lathing; this option is perfect in cases where the walls are very uneven. In this case, the bars under the horizontal cladding must be placed vertically, and vice versa, under the vertical – horizontally. The slats are connected to each other using special brackets. For tile options, regardless of their size, it is better to use waterproof adhesive in the bathroom. Installing them on a frame made of timber is quite difficult, since this involves the use of screws, the heads of which will be visible from the front side. Sheet MDF, fiberboard and chipboard can be attached either to the lathing or to glue, but in the first case the reliability will be higher.
Before you start covering the walls of the bathroom, it is advisable to keep the material in a regular living room for a day, since storage conditions usually imply a dry warehouse. As a result, transferring directly to a room with high humidity may become too sharp a change for the slabs, which will not have the best effect on them. It is better to thoroughly prime the chipboard before installation, and use products with good water-repellent properties for this purpose. To treat moisture, you can mix 1:1 wood varnish and white spirit. If the front side of the material is covered with a laminate or other decorative layer, the primer must be applied to the back surface and ends, which, in addition, can also be puttied.
You can decorate a bathroom not only with ceramic tiles. In addition to the fact that cladding requires considerable costs, both physical and material, the very preparation of the solution and its application necessarily lead to additional cleaning. But I want something new, unusual and something that can be installed even by a non-professional. These are the qualities that an innovation in the modern construction field has - MDF panels. Having a number of advantages, they are perfect for creating interiors in places with high humidity.
Characteristics of MDF panels
MDF panels are manufactured in production by hot pressing. For this, dry wood mixtures and binders, such as modified urea resins, are used. The entire process takes place at extremely high temperatures. This makes it possible to firmly glue the chips together. Thanks to this, the material acquires extraordinary strength and durability.
The mechanical properties of MDF significantly distinguish it from the background natural wood. After all, it is almost impossible to break the panel. This property allows MDF to be used to create rounded facades or other decorative elements.
Types of MDF panels:
- Tile panels
Manufactured in the form of slabs. Their size may vary. Main advantage tile panels is that they can create an unusual, spectacular interior. Connecting different colors or texture, you can significantly transform your bathroom. Attached to the surface with glue.
- Slatted wall panels
They are long slats different widths and thickness. The choice of sizes is quite large, so every builder will be able to find the material that suits them. Such panels are mounted on a metal or wood frame. Fixed with staples or self-tapping screws. They are popular when covering small rooms.
- Sheet panels
These panels are often used to create interiors in large rooms. Having rather large sizes, they are very easily and quickly attached with glue. The joints can be hidden with moldings. Sheet panels can have different structures and fit harmoniously into any room.
MDF panels also differ in the way they finish the front surface. Of course, not all of them are suitable for bathroom cladding:
- Laminated panels(characterized by the application of a special PVC film to the surface. In addition to an excellent imitation of wood, metal or stone, such plates are distinguished by good dust-repellent, waterproof and aesthetic properties).
- Veneered panels(the surface is covered with veneer and the panels are given any shade of wood).
- Painted panels(thanks to special effective dyes, the panel acquires an incredibly beautiful shine and additional protection).
- Good thermal insulation. Modern technologies made it possible to create panels that perfectly retain heat without transferring it to the walls.
- Moisture resistance and antiseptic properties. Since the material is used in rooms with high humidity, it is well treated with all antifungal and mold-protecting substances. Thanks to the moisture-repellent film, even if you pour water on the panel, not a single drop will linger.
- Material hardness. This property helps to hide many things that interfere with a complete and aesthetic appearance. For example, you can hide wiring, cables, pipes, etc. behind MDF. In addition, the walls do not need to be treated before installation.
- Strength. Moisture-resistant MDF panels have excellent resistance to mechanical damage. This ability is not possessed by materials such as plastic, which they like to cover the bathroom with. The panels do not break or crack, even with strong impact. Flexible, they are used to cover the arch.
- Ease of care. Just for ease of maintenance, it is necessary to purchase and install the correct panels with seamless fastening. They just need to be wiped with a damp, soapy cloth.
- Affordable price. Unlike tiles, MDF panels are much cheaper. This option is affordable for anyone who wants to transform their bathroom.
- Easy to install. This is another great benefit of the panels. Anyone, even a non-professional builder, can install them.
- Ease of cutting. There is no need to buy expensive power tools.
- Variety of colors and textures. MDF wall panels can satisfy the wishes of any buyer.
- Durability. Modern production made it possible to create a material that can last as long as tiles.
If the bathroom is small, MDF panels can solve this problem by visually expanding the space using slabs coated with glossy or mirror film.
The disadvantages include only a slight reduction in the room when installing panels on metal carcass.
Methods for installing MDF panels
In addition to the panels themselves, additional components are also required. All joints and corners will need to be covered with moldings. This component is an elongated bar that has a variety of shapes cross section. They exist in different types:
- Starter - attached at the very beginning of work;
- Connecting - cover unsightly joints between panels;
- Ceiling - they can be used as a plinth, as they close the gap at the junction of the ceiling and wall;
- Internal corner moldings;
- External plastic corners;
- End - their purpose is decoration;
- Universal.
Before purchasing, you need to carefully study the product. If it has an insufficient level of moisture resistance or is intended for outdoor use, you should not take risks. Otherwise, at the first appearance of moisture, the panel will become covered with fungus or mold.
There are a number of options for mounting the panel to the wall. The main and most common method is installation using glue. Only it is allowed to do it perfectly flat surface, no bumps or dents. If there are any, they can be eliminated using a spatula, putty or cement mortar.
The gluing process itself can be divided into several stages.
Stage 1. Calculating the footage of the bathroom. This is necessary for efficient gluing of the panels, avoiding residues.
Stage 2. Adjustment of panels to the obtained dimensions. It is better to immediately determine which panel to glue to which wall.
Step 3. Attach starter molding where work begins.
Stage 4. Gluing the panel according to the order. The glue is applied evenly thin stripes over the entire surface and at the same distance from each other.
Stage 5. Unnecessary joints and junctions with the ceiling must be covered with decorative moldings.
You can also use lathing to cover the walls in the bathroom. It is made from aluminum or wooden blocks. Fastening is done to the wall using dowels. The unevenness of the wall, in this case, will not interfere with the creation of a smooth and smooth surface. If the recess in the wall is deep enough, you just need to put wooden block under a metal or wooden profile.
As with installation using glue, this method also requires, before starting work, accurate measurements of the bathroom and beating off verticals in the corners. Further, work in progress according to the following stages:
Stage 1. Depending on the selected type of panels, the lathing is fixed to the wall perpendicular to the slats.
Stage 2. The horizontal panels should be fixed at the same distance butt to the vertical ones.
Stage 3. Attaching the starting molding.
Stage 4. Alternate installation of panels using the tongue-and-groove method.
Stage 5. The final stage of work, which includes hiding the joints using decorated molding.
The main advantage of most modern finishing materials is their ease of use and installation, and moisture-resistant wall panels for the bathroom are also highly resistant to getting wet.
Panels for finishing bathrooms have a wide range of model range– there are moisture-resistant wall panels for tiles that imitate wood, a natural stone.
What is MDF?
MDF is an abbreviation for English language, which reflects the main properties of the base material. IN literal translation sounds like medium-density fiberboard. By own essence, MDF is nothing more than fiberboard.
But, there are serious differences between these wood-based materials and because of this, MDF cannot be called a complete analogue of fiberboard:
- According to manufacturing technology, if we compare, MDF is pressed very small chips, and fiberboard is ordinary pressed wood waste.
- Also, there is a difference in the moisture resistance of MDF and fiberboard - for fiberboard it is at the level of 60%, and for MDF it is 80%.
- There is also a difference in the environmental friendliness of materials. The fiberboard is held together using synthetic glue (phenol is used, epoxy resins). And here MDF board obtained under the influence of high temperature and pressure, bonded into a single layer due to the release of natural wood resins (lignin is released).
- Although MDF is impregnated with chemicals and covered with a moisture-resistant film, it does not emit toxic substances when heated.
- MDF panels for the bathroom are adapted to the aggressive effects of water and temperature, treated against fungus and are characterized by sufficient resistance to mechanical stress.
Fiberboard is inferior to MDF in terms of the following indicators:
- environmental friendliness;
- moisture resistance;
- resistance to mechanical damage.
However, fiberboard is much cheaper than MDF, which often covers up all the other excellent consumer characteristics of MDF.
Pros and cons of MDF panels in the bathroom
MDF wall panels can be used in any room, including where the humidity level is quite high.
This finishing material has many advantages, the main ones:
- Low cost of the material, which in comparison with the cost of tiles is completely insignificant. In addition, not only the material is inexpensive, but also its installation.
- MDF panels for the bathroom have high antiseptic characteristics - the coating is not susceptible to fungal formations. Almost all moisture-resistant MDF panels for the bathroom have this impregnation.
- Each slab for wall cladding has high elasticity and rigidity, which allows them to hide uneven walls and other defects.
- Wood fiber waterproof facing material, when mounted on a wall, allows you to additionally lay thermal insulation, water supply communications, wiring and install Spotlights, hiding their connection behind you.
- The material is characterized by high resistance to mechanical damage. They can withstand not only accidental impacts, but also kinks and breaks. They are even suitable for finishing arched openings.
- Construction products do not require special care after installation. There are options when, after fixing them, there are no seams left on the walls.
- The process of attaching the panel to the ceiling or wall is quite simple and does not require specific tools and deep knowledge construction topics.
Disadvantages of wall and ceiling finishing panels depend on the base material. MDF panels, whose moisture resistance is increased, have the only drawback - the top decorative and protective coating.
This coating is a thin film that may look like this:
- like tile mosaic;
- decorated with ornaments;
- imitate wood fibers;
- resemble natural stone and so on.
Any defect in the protective and decorative film reduces the overall moisture resistance of the slab.
When the interior design does not include arches and the like architectural solutions, it is better to give preference PVC panels, since they are less picky in everyday care and are not afraid of accidental scratches.
A wall lined with PVC will look no worse than one with MDF. But, if MDF withstands an accidental blow and just “plays around,” then PVC, whose average impact resistance is lower, can break, completely ruining the impression of the bathroom design.
Variety of types of panels for bathrooms
Cladding panels are divided into only two types, based on the following parameters - the material used to create the slab and the shape of the panel itself.
According to the form, moisture-resistant panels are divided into three main groups:
- rack and pinion;
- leafy;
- tiled.
Depending on the group and shape, the technique for installing them on walls differs:
- The easiest to install is the tile and slatted group.
- However, according to operational properties The sheet group is considered the undisputed leader - when laid, sheet cladding practically does not create joints.
- Confusion often arises with the sheet group and the rack group, since the main difference between them is the width.
Thus, products whose width is 0.25 cm or less belong to the rack group. And similar products with a larger width are a sheet group.
They belong to the budget category of finishing materials. Both MDF and PVC are available in different forms and options decorative design– there are absolutely no difficulties with selecting panels for a certain style in the bathroom.
Regardless of the base material of the moisture-resistant panel for the bathroom, when making the final choice of finishing material, you need to ensure that it meets the following parameters:
- sufficient level of strength;
- acceptable fire safety;
- high dielectric properties;
- ease of installation;
- ease of further care;
- high antiseptic properties;
- inertness to the effects of chemical cleaning agents.
Before making a final decision, it is advisable to read the reviews of those people who have already installed a similar option in their own home.
Moisture-resistant MDF panels have a fairly extensive range in which you can choose cladding with almost any design and in any color scheme.
You shouldn’t buy the first design you like - by slightly increasing the duration of your search, you can find more suitable option and thereby find true harmony in the interior of the bathroom.
Today, wall panels are increasingly used to decorate bathrooms, which make it easy to create spectacular and functional interior solutions. Panels can be made of PVC, fiberboard, chipboard, MDF. Most good choice There will be MDF panels for the bathroom. Unlike fiberboard and chipboard, they have high moisture resistance. Compared to plastic, MDF wall panels for the bathroom are highly durable and are a more impressive and “rich” finishing option.
Selecting MDF panels for the bathroom
Wall panels in the bathroom must meet high requirements in terms of moisture resistance. They must also withstand exposure to fairly high temperatures. In this regard, it is highly recommended not to save too much when choosing.
When ordering wall panels for a bathroom, you must carefully study the product passport, which indicates the main characteristics. These characteristics must satisfy the listed requirements. In addition, it is important that the panels are non-toxic.
Advantages
Moisture-resistant MDF wall panels for the bathroom have the following advantages compared to other finishing options:
- beautiful and original solution in the interior;
- possibility of use different options installation (on glue or on a frame);
- effective masking of communications and defects of the main wall surface;
- ease of cutting;
- large selection of textures and color solutions panels;
- high durability and reliability.
Sale of wall panels for bathrooms
The City Porte company offers the opportunity to buy MDF wall panels for the bathroom of excellent quality, which will last for many years. We have the widest selection of textures and colors available, which allows us to implement any interior solutions. In addition, we offer profitable price on
MDF wall panels for the bathroom appeared on the market of finishing materials recently and quickly gained their place among others alternative options decoration of bathrooms.
And this is no coincidence. In this article we will look at what this is connected with.
There are a number of advantages that make MDF wall panels for the bathroom an excellent material.
So this is:
- affordable price;
- various textures and colors;
- durability;
- good sound insulation;
- ease of installation;
- ease of care;
- moisture resistance.
These MDF panels are similar to fiberboard, only their density is 670 – 850 kg/m3. The basis for the manufacture of such panels are MDF boards.
Their production is based on finely divided dry shavings, which are pressed at high temperature and pressure. Such panels can be used in rooms with high levels of humidity, that is, in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Their technological characteristics allows you to even install them in shower stalls. This is confirmed on their packaging by a drop-shaped icon.
Sound and heat insulation, hygiene and durability make wall panels very quality material, and the ability to withstand any load allows you to attach cabinets, shelves and other furniture to the panels.
There are various colors of these panels. However, in addition to the variety of shades, there are also panels with imitation various materials, for example, ceramic tiles, wood, stone and much more. We subconsciously perceive this as the possibility of using such material in rooms with high humidity levels.
If you decide to decorate your bathroom with wall panels, then you do not need to undergo special training; you can easily install it yourself, you just need the desire and a little time.
When installing the panels, you will not need to carefully prepare the walls; they will hide all roughness and unevenness, in addition:
- behind the casing you can hide electrical cables and even pipes;
- you can create any design solution in your interior.
A huge variety of decors opens up great opportunities for creating interesting and fashionable solutions; using and combining different shades and textures of panels, you can achieve impeccable results.
Types of panels
There are several types of wall panels:
- . Due to its size, Finishing work less labor-intensive due to the reduction in the number of joints. Their dimensions are 1.25 x 2.50 meters and thickness is from 3 to 7 millimeters.
- They look like long planks, and their dimensions are as follows: width 130 - 280 millimeters, length 2500 - 3800 millimeters, and thickness 8 - 14 millimeters.
- . They represent square shape, thereby making it easy to lay out any design or pattern. The most common sizes are from 30 x 30 to 95 x 95 centimeters.
Preparing the base
So, if you decide to install the panels yourself, then, as mentioned above, this work is not difficult, but there are still some nuances and features. The first step will be preparing the base.
For this:
- Wallpaper, if any, should be torn off. In those places where they peel badly, you can leave them.
- Cover the surface with a primer (since the bathroom has very high humidity, in our case this is necessary). The primer will help prevent the appearance of mold and its spread.
Tools and materials
- self-extinguishing corrugation,
- screwdriver,
- hammer drill,
- self-tapping screws (fleas),
- self-tapping screws 25 mm long,
- SD and UD profiles.
If it will be sheathed, then spotlights and pendants will also be needed.
- In one of the corners you need to find the lowest point using a hydraulic level.
- Step back from this point about 5 cm and draw a horizontal line around the perimeter of the room.
- Using the “quick installation” 6x60 mm, fasten the UD profile along the marked line to the wall.
Important: Many people build frames from wood, but you should not skimp on its manufacture.
Experts say that wood changes over time, and this leads to deformation and swelling of MDF. This means that repairs will have to start all over again.
- Next, every 60-70 cm on the ceiling, secure the suspensions using fasteners " quick installation» 4 – 6 cm. To do this, you need to drill holes with a diameter of 6 mm on the base. SD profiles are attached to the hangers. The universal frame is ready.
Please note: This frame (lathing) is ideal not only for MDF installation, but also for installing drywall and plastic.
Before installing panels for ceiling lamps All electrical wiring must be routed.
- Attach the first strip to the corner profile using self-tapping screws, and on the reverse side attach it to each frame profile with gluers.
By installing the panels one by one, you will quickly get a finished ceiling. All that remains is to drill holes for the lamps and install them.
Wall mounting
Now let's proceed directly to the installation of walls:
- Start by measuring the walls that these panels will be attached to. The surface of the walls must be without flaws, smooth, even and always dry.
- To adapt waterproof panels to the temperature and humidity of the room, they must be placed near the walls 48 hours before starting work.
Try them on and cut them to the size you need, cutting out places for taps, sockets, and so on. Panels for tiles must be cut so that the seams of the tiles match between the panels.
If you decide to install panels without moldings, then leave a distance between them of 3 mm. This seam should be carefully sealed with silicone waterproof sealant.
To ensure a completely waterproof installation, seal the top and bottom edges of the panels. It is recommended to use moldings at the corner and end, as well as interpanel ones when installing smooth waterproof marble and granite panels.
For complete sealing, apply silicone sealant into the groove of the moldings.
- Now on the back side of the panel you should apply waterproof glue, to do this, lay it face down on a previously protected surface.
A spatula with teeth from 4 to 6 mm will help you with this. To ensure a tight fit of the panel to the wall, press it firmly along its entire length. - All that remains is to wipe them with a cloth from soft fabric or a sponge. And to relieve static stress, so that dust does not stick, you should treat the surface of the panels with an antistatic agent.
After the work has been done, the cladding process can be considered complete.
Advice: When choosing glue, you should not skimp, it should be High Quality and waterproof.
The main advantage of wall panels is that they make it easy to change the interior of an apartment without much expense. They can be used in finishing walls, ceilings, and in creating arches, partitions, and columns. They are quite easy to install and also easy to disassemble, and with careful handling they can be reused.
Bottom line: Beauty, reliability, aesthetics, practicality, the presence of a hygienic certificate allow us to say that wall panels are the highest quality and affordable finishing material.
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