PVC panels: types and applications

Making repairs in an apartment or house, often the question of the choice of materials. After all, they must be attractive and high-quality, and be suitable for the chosen interior. The modern market offers a huge amount of finishing materials, and PVC panels have recently emerged among them. Due to the variety of options for this material, you can experiment. However, the abundance of options can make even a long time to choose the most suitable material.

To understand what PVC panels are, you first need to find out what these three letters are hiding behind them. In fact, everything is extremely simple - they are deciphered as polyvinyl chloride (organic polymer). This is a kind of plastic with its own advantages and disadvantages.

This polymeric material is used for decoration, and it is worth noting that in recent times it has become clearly popular.The composition of polyvinyl chloride includes chlorine (57%), carbon (42%), hydrogen with impurities (approximately 1%). It is very rare, but it is still found that lead is added to PVC as a stabilizer. Of course, because of this component and rumors appeared that the panels are harmful to health. Today, however, lead is replaced with equal amounts of zinc and calcium, and therefore they are completely harmless.

PVC panels are available in standard sizes according to GOST. So, the length of the panels is 2700, 3000 and 6000 millimeters, and the width is 100, 250 and 375 millimeters. As for the thickness, it depends on the manufacturer and model, and its value varies from 1 to 30 millimeters.

PVC can be used at temperatures from -50 to +60 degrees. Moreover, it is desirable to use the panel for interior decoration. This is due to the fact that in the premises during the day the temperature difference is not too strong. Of course, there are types of panels, for example, for finishing the balcony, which are resistant to strong cold or sunlight. In addition, they calmly tolerate temperature jumps.

The strength of the panels depends on how many percent of polyvinyl chloride they contain. The strength is also affected by the number of stiffeners. Moreover, the edges should not shine through the front side of the panel.

Colors and texture of PVC panels are completely unlimited. Today you can meet both white classics, and wood or stone style, and you can get any shade to order. It is worth noting that when painting this finishing material used water-based paints.

The surface of the panels can be both matte and glossy. Manufacturing technology is one - varnished, just after glossing the panels undergo additional processing. Such a coating carries not only a decorative function, but also a protective one. After this treatment, the material becomes antistatic, wear-resistant, resistant to mechanical damage (scratches), and also better tolerates ultraviolet radiation.

PVC wall paneling is used for finishing walls and ceilings in residential premises, in offices and shopping complexes. At the same time in the apartments they can be used everywhere, including the hallway, bathroom, kitchen, living rooms. Of course, they are most often used in the bathroom and in the kitchen. Also, the panels are used to finish the slopes on the windows, as well as loggias and balconies.

Such extensive use of this finishing material is primarily due to the fact that it is easy to care for and even easier to install.The low weight allows even single-handedly finishing with such panels both the walls and the ceiling. And they are sold in very convenient packaging, which greatly facilitates their transportation.

Another important property of PVC panels is that they have a low degree of flammability. This allows them to be used without undue constraint, in particular, in the kitchen, even near the gas stove.

Plastic panels, which are also widely known as plastic lining, have come a hard way while they were appreciated. To understand why they have become popular lately, you should know their pros and cons.

Of course, you should start with positive qualities:

• Affordable price. This quality can be called the most important advantage of PVC panels. This material is at a cost several times lower than most other materials for finishing. And despite the low cost, plastic panels also have excellent properties.
• Easy installation. Working with PVC is very easy. As a result, they are often mounted independently, which saves money on the services of a specialist.In addition, ease of operation also allows you to save on finishing time.

• Disguise flaws. Irreplaceable such decoration will be in the event that the walls or ceiling there are any drawbacks. With their help, any irregularities or other defects are hidden very easily. After finishing this material an even and nice room is obtained.
• Easy replacement of damaged PVC panels. In the event that for some reason one of the panels has been damaged, it easily changes to another. As a result, you do not have to repair the entire room again, which again saves time, effort and money.

• Easy care. A room with panels will always look clean, because they are easily wiped with a damp sponge. So that they always look like new, it is enough just to periodically carry out wet cleaning. Of course, special attention will have to be paid to the joints of the panels, but these are trifles.
• Resistant to moisture. Not every finishing material can be used for finishing a bathroom or a room with a high level of humidity. At the same time, there is no rust on the panels and there can be no fungus.Thus, they allow to realize the dreams of many housewives about the absence of problems with excessive moisture in the kitchen and in the bathroom.

• Little weight. Lightweight panels do not harm the supporting structures at all. At the same time they are easy to transport and install, even alone.
• Long service life. Quality PVC can look like new for 40 years. Such dignity can not remain imperceptible.
• A large variety of colors. A huge palette of PVC makes it easy to pick them up to any interior. And quite often the demand is not for plain panels, but with drawings, as well as imitation of wood or stone.

• Environmental friendliness. If quality materials are chosen, they are completely non-toxic.
• Sound and heat insulation. The decoration of the PVC rooms makes them even more soundproof. At the same time, they will also keep the heat better.
• Strength. Not everyone agrees with such dignity. In fact, the panels are durable and flexible, but many make a mistake when choosing. After all, for the decoration of the walls should be used panels with greater density, and suitable for the ceiling and "lightweight" options.Light impacts and other minor mechanical damage to the panels are not terrible.

• Maintain temperature fluctuations. Most PVC panels quietly tolerate temperature fluctuations from +50 to -50 degrees.
• Versatility. In addition to walls, ceilings, windows, door slopes, they are also used to create shower cubicles, formwork forms of non-standard forms. And even gardeners have found use for them, forming excellent beds from them.

With all the advantages of so many negative qualities of this material is not so much:

• Distortion in sudden temperature changes. Of course, in a certain temperature range, this material perfectly serves. However, if there is a sharp jump, for example, by 20 degrees (no matter which way), then it can be deformed.
• Reduced area. Sometimes in the premises it is necessary to use additional structures for mounting panels. For example, if the walls are strongly curved, you must first make the installation of a wooden or metal frame. As a result, the area of ​​the room may be slightly reduced.

• Acrid smoke in case of fire. PVC is almost non-combustible material, but when it burns, very acrid smoke is formed. Therefore, in case of a long contact with it, health can be injured.
• UV resistant. This disadvantage is especially noticeable on white panels, which under the sun's rays turn yellow over time, losing their beautiful appearance.

• Unpleasant smell. This minus of the panels disappears a few days after their installation. And he is not always.
• Not suitable for children. Despite the high environmental friendliness of the panels, yet many experts do not recommend their use for children's rooms. In addition, some cheap versions of panels may contain harmful substances.

A large number of plastic panels are on the market today. With them facing of houses becomes pleasant and simple. Surprisingly, decorative PVC walls are able to make walls as if laminated. They are very different, and you can even pick them up based on the type of furniture.

However, this diversity can sometimes make it difficult to choose. To make this task easier, it is worthwhile to take a closer look at each of the types of panels that are on sale:

• Pinion (vinyl) panels, they are plastic lining. Their appearance, they really strongly resemble the wall paneling, hence the name. Use this type of panels for walls and ceilings.Moreover, the main advantage of the form is that the paneling can be placed both horizontally and vertically. The first arrangement will visually increase the height of the ceilings, and the second will slightly reduce it. Such composing rectangles are fastened to the wall with the help of metal brackets or just glue.

The most popular types of wall paneling by compound:

1. "European" has a wide lock;

2. "Polka" is distinguished by a narrow castle connection.

• Panels under the tile. As a matter of fact, such keyboards often represent squares, that is, they look like a familiar tile. Installation of this type of material will be very difficult and time consuming. However, in the end, you can experiment with interesting designs, including unique author. Squares differ in their size, design, texture.

This type is especially relevant for interior decoration of a bathroom or kitchen. And in the latter case, it is best to allocate panels under the tile exclusively working area.

• Sheet panels, or seamless. They are definitely the most beautiful type of PVC panels. This is due to the fact that when installing between the panels do not form a connection. Most often they are used for wall decoration. Installation of this type is made with glue or nails.

• Sandwich panels. This type is often used as a decorating finish. With such panels, any room will look more presentable and aesthetically pleasing. They are also used for finishing partitions and window slopes. These panels consist of two sheets.

According to the material of which the outer layer is made, sandwiches are divided into three types:

• Laminate. Such plastic is formed by combining decorative paper, kraft paper and overlay. All this is soaked with formaldehyde and pressed. It has high strength and reliability. It withstands even heavy loads.

• Foamed. This plastic has a porous structure. Best suited for places with high humidity. In addition, it is a good insulating material.The surface of such panels, as a rule, has a roughness.

• Hard. Maybe matte and glossy. Quite often used for finishing window slopes and door openings.

Sizes of PVC panels vary depending on their type. Therefore, it will not be out of place before choosing the desired option, to get acquainted with what panels can be in size. Indeed, depending on this, you can choose the best option for a particular interior.

Sizes of plastic lining:

• thickness - from 8 to 12 mm;
• length - from 300 to 1200 mm;
• width - from 100 to 500 mm.

Sizes of tile panels:

• thickness - from 0.5 to 1 millimeter;
• length - up to 1000 millimeters;
• Width - 500-1000 mm.

Sizes of sandwich panels:

• thickness - from 10 to 32 mm;
• width - from 900 to 1 500 mm;
• length - up to 3,000 mm.

In addition to the size, the panels are also distinguished by their decorative appearance. Different coating panels, which can be glossy or matte. They can be colored, patterned and even embossed. For example, lining most often happens white matte or glossy, sheet panels can even imitate tiles by their appearance.

Depending on the type of coating, the panel may be matte or glossy.There are also differences depending on the application of paint on the surface of the panel. For example, a drawing is applied on a white color panel, and then with the help of a special painting roller it is painted in colors. After that, colorless UV varnish is applied as a protective layer.

Of course, today it is completely easy to choose the finishes, even if the interior design requires something special. For example, if the interior is played up with a marine or suburban theme, then panels with imitation of a cut of a stone would be an excellent option. PVC options with the image of natural slate look amazingly realistic. This solution is especially important for the bathroom.

Very refined and subtle options among plastic tiles are also not uncommon. You can choose a model under the blue marble. Few suitable elements of decor, and a room with such tiles will be the height of elegance. Of course, the most common color is white or panels with a pattern.However, the dark colors have shown that they are in considerable demand.

Among the best-selling ones are red shades, transparent panels, imitation of bamboo. Particularly impressive are the wide and thin sheets of panels that give the walls the smoothest and most luxurious look. It should be noted that the panels under the tree (especially pine) also proved to be one of the most popular.

Mirror PVC, which instantly give the room an attractive look, can become an amazing decor. They are in fact a glass of polystyrene, which is attached to the frame. Moreover, a pattern, perforation can be applied to its surface, or it will have a holographic effect.

Panels "panda" differ exclusive design. They are applied very high quality and vivid pictures. Moreover, the images are visible very clearly, it is not difficult to consider even the smallest details. The interiors of the bathroom, hallway, kitchen or living room with such panels will be elegant. Indeed, the collections contain one main drawing and from one to five additional ones.

A great solution will be the chic and wenge color options.Their rich dark brown color, approaching black, will bring real tropical notes. Instant transformation can be achieved using black and white patterns on PVC. For lovers brighter and more luxurious there are options in combination with a golden hue.

There are lots of varieties of PVC decorative design. Suffice it to choose a suitable variation for a particular interior.

There are a large number of panels from different manufacturers on the market. Of course, among them there are options that could prove the quality of their products. It is on such PVC and cost to pay attention when choosing. Today, among the entire range, such manufacturers as Crona Plast, Aquaton and Vox stand out in particular.

"KronaPlast" has been operating in the PVC panel market since 2000. Currently, this company is a leading manufacture of materials for decoration. Among the products of the company you can find plastic panels for walls and ceilings, wall paneling, floor baseboards, accordion doors, moldings. Particularly noteworthy are decorative plastic panels, the Ceramics collection for tiles, laminated, offset and ceiling panels from this manufacturer.The company's products also have a large number of colors for every taste.

Aquaton LLC has been active for over 16 years. Now the company produces a large amount of materials from fibreboards and polyvinyl chloride. The manufacturer is not only panels, but even PVC window sills, sheet panels, as well as various accessories. Interesting options "Aquaton" offers in its collection "Novita". This collection includes panels for walls, ceilings, moisture-resistant floor coverings and composite marble based on rigid PVC.

VOX manufactures building materials and furniture since 1992. Today, the company represents a huge amount of PVC materials for exterior and interior works. And there are panels for walls, ceilings and even facades. The company constantly cares about the development of technology that allows you to maintain high quality and affordable prices.

Vox decorative panels are suitable for finishing both residential premises and commercial real estate (offices, shops, outbuildings). Unique interiors can also be created with the Vox Didital Print collection.It should be noted that the colors of the panels of this manufacturer are distinguished by a special European aesthetics.

Buy high-quality and interesting options for panels today, you can even in the online store. For example, the store "Axon" offers a large number of finishing panels for any interior from leading manufacturers. At the same time they can even order delivery by a certain time, which is very convenient. Do not even have to leave the house to update the interior.

When choosing PVC panels should pay attention to a number of some parameters. It is advisable to first determine where the panels will be used. Today, they are used not only for walls and ceilings, but also as cladding for balconies and loggias, slopes of windows and doors, and even as flooring in the form of formwork for the steps of the original form.

One of the main parameters are stiffening ribs that are inside the panels. It is they, or rather, their number and location (at least 10 millimeters between them) determine how high-quality the product is. The higher the stiffness, the more pressure the panel can withstand. And the edges should not be visible through the front side of PVC.

It is also worth a close look at how the paint is applied to the surface. Ideally, it should be evenly layered, and there should be no spots, stains or other defects. It would not be out of place to carefully examine the panels also for scratches, dents, cracks. Best of all, if the panel covers a protective film.

Before choosing panels with a pattern, special attention should be paid to how it is made: thermal printing, offset printing or lamination. After all, each panel will need to be installed so that you get a full image. Moreover, such panels require very accurate measurements. Making a mistake with the calculations, then you can not find the necessary pattern. It is worth considering the moment that when ordering a batch with a similar pattern, you can find out that the panels differ in some details in the image.

For living rooms panels with printed patterns will be the best option. As for the bathrooms, as well as kitchen spaces, it is necessary to select thermal transfer options for them. Such panels are better tolerate detergents and frequent friction.

When selecting panels, be sure to check how tight their joints are. The smaller the intersectional space, the more carefully and smoothly the wall looks. Of course, the best option would be seamless panels.

The weight of the lining is important, and this must be taken into account when choosing panels. Based on this parameter, one can get an idea of ​​the panel wall thickness, stiffness and the number of stiffeners. For example, one square meter of standard PVC lining weighs about 1.5 kilograms.

Panel thickness is also important. Often it varies from 0.1 to 10 millimeters. However, this parameter has the greatest value when decorating walls. And in this case, the greater the thickness, the better. For ceilings, it is possible to select panels with the least thickness.

According to professionals, high-quality plastic lining contains in its composition about 20 percent of the chalk. If this figure is higher, then the product will be more fragile. To check the amount of chalk in the material it is necessary to bend a corner of the panel. A plastic product in a place where there was a bend will not appear either a strip or a crack.

It will not be superfluous when choosing panels also to smell it.After all, if in the store where finishing materials are sold, there is a sharp smell of plastic, then this indicates their toxicity. In fact, the specific smell should be only when printing a new packaging with clapboard. And it can not be called sharp.

Choosing the panel, you need to think in advance exactly where they will be used. After all, PVC are ceiling and on the walls. Recently, you can even find floor panels. By design, they are practically no different from each other, but here is the strength and some characteristics they still have differences.

If the material is purchased for walls with large dimensions, it is better to opt for sheets of maximum sizes. Thus, the interior will look more aesthetic.

The resistance of PVC to different temperatures deserves special attention. Especially this parameter must be considered when choosing a material for finishing the kitchen, bathroom or balcony.

Price also matters.And it often depends on the manufacturer and quality. However, one cannot say with absolute certainty that the most expensive panels are of the highest quality. It is better to stay at a reasonable middle.

By choosing concrete PVC panels, you can even ask the seller for a certificate confirming the quality standard, as well as durability, fire safety and other product parameters. Do not be afraid to request these documents, since their absence indicates a poor-quality product.

Panels with a frieze are lightweight and high strength, which makes them indispensable for bathrooms or kitchens, where interior partitions are made of fragile drywall. An excellent solution are panels under natural stone or wood. Moreover, the first option is easy, but it looks very realistic, and the second one is moisture resistant and does not lose its appearance with time. PVC with a 3D image will also be an interesting option.

For finishing of a balcony or a loggia the laminated panels will become excellent option. They do not fade in the sun, are not covered with cracks, do not deform from low temperatures.For resistance to mechanical stress and image quality, such panels can easily compete even with MDF.

If the apartment has high ceilings, it is best to opt for glossy panels. They are an excellent reflector of light that will make the room even brighter and more pleasant.

Accessories for the installation of PVC panels is also not the last point that should be considered when choosing. After all, the molding (special fastenings) must be of high quality, fit the grooves to the thickness of the panel and be matched exactly in color. Otherwise, the hardware will stand out too much against the panels. You should also be aware that the moldings may differ depending on the surface that will be faced.

Finishing PVC panels can be carried out with the installation of the frame or installing the panel without sheathing. To better understand which way to choose, you should get acquainted with them in more detail.

The easiest option is to install the frame. For its manufacture, you can use a variety of materials.

The framework from a wooden bar will be suitable for the majority of premises.However, it is worth remembering that it is not suitable for bathrooms or kitchens, as it does not tolerate high humidity. And in these areas the panel will have to be washed frequently.

The most reliable is definitely a frame made of metal profile. Of course, it should be borne in mind that it is very expensive.

For the installation of panels without any crates need to have a solid experience, and even smooth walls and ceiling. Of course, you can try and understand this process, but you should bear in mind that skills are also important here. The main disadvantage of this method is that if one of the elements loses its appearance, then to replace it, it is necessary to revet the entire wall.

When the installation method is determined, you should proceed to the preparation. At this stage, you will need a tape measure, level, ruler (preferably meter), a pencil or marker, screwdriver, drill, dowel, screws or nails, stapler, hacksaw.In addition, it is necessary to prepare in advance the bits, drills, brackets and other consumables. If all this is taken care of in advance, then the finishing time may be significantly reduced.

It is not necessary to mount the panel on the wall, as soon as the sheets brought after buying home. It is best to give them 24 hours on staying. For this, the panels are unpacked so that they can “get used” to the conditions of the room.

Also at the preparatory stage should be a complete dismantling of the old coating of walls and ceiling. Then, it is necessary to carefully level the surface, seal the holes and remove other defects so as not to spoil the quality of the PVC coating. Otherwise, the panels will bulge in places, and later on they will be completely deformed. At the end of the preparation of the walls and ceiling they should be covered with an antiseptic. This is especially important in the bathroom and in the kitchen.

Mounting with a frame has some advantages. The main one is the ability to eliminate significant irregularities and various defects of the walls. Also, the frame allows you to make the insulation of the room better and hide various communications.

When the walls and ceiling are prepared, you can begin to mark them.This is done exclusively with the help of the level. It is important to avoid even small mistakes.

Installation of the frame starts from the bottom. The bottom row should be raised above the floor by 1-2 centimeters. This will allow the panels to fit very closely to the wall. Next, using the square, the level and the pencil, you must make a mark and go up 50 centimeters up. At this point, you need to make another part of the frame.

Repeating this procedure, it is necessary to reach the ceiling. Upon completion, it is necessary to assess how far the lines run in parallel and at the same distance from each other.

When all lines are scheduled, you can install crate. For wooden crates, it is better to use an additional disinfectant solution. Dowels should be installed at intervals of about 50 centimeters, and then fix the slats on them. And if a wall with obvious irregularities, then the grooves can be filled with wood chips or special wooden wedges of suitable sizes. It is worth noting that the frame made of wood is best suited for finishing dry rooms.

The frame can also be created from a metal profile. This option is especially relevant for the bathroom, where there is constantly high humidity. When installing the important point is the direction of the panels and the profile itself.

The most modern version of the frame is a plastic crate. In this case, the guides are attached to the wall using dowels. Clips are inserted into a special groove, on them PVC also keeps.

When assembling the frame, please note that it is desirable to maintain a distance of 8 centimeters from the wall to the panels. This is necessary for the normal movement of air to avoid excessive moisture.

After creating the frame, you can mount the panels themselves. Installation usually starts from the left corner of the room. First you need to install an internal plastic corner, which has connectors with orientation to the adjoining walls. After that, you should fix the upper and lower baseboards.

Next, you need to attach the plastic panel to the surface and make measurements. It is important to note that they must be inserted into the connectors of the lower and upper baseboards. Measurements are best done with a tape measure and very accurate (up to a millimeter). The first panel should be inserted into the corner, and if necessary, then cut the slot part with a conventional construction knife.

Then the required length of the panel is cut and inserted into the upper plinth,after which its lower part is bent and immersed in the lower plinth. In the event that all measurements were made correctly, the panel will fit tightly and evenly. Now you can connect the grooves of adjacent panels and fix them using self-tapping screws or a stapler and brackets. To remove the gaps in the joints of panels, you can use silicone.

Thus all panels are mounted. When the installation is complete, the molding should be installed. Thanks to him, the finish will be more reliable and visually attractive. It is necessary to install the molding elements around the perimeter and seams. Make holes in the PVC panel for sockets, pipes or lamps can be a simple stationery knife.

For mounting panels, you can also use the frameless method using glue. However, we must bear in mind that it is not as durable as the frame, and for it should carefully align the walls.

It should be borne in mind that if the installation of panels will be carried out by this method, then the surface should be primed. For this procedure it is necessary to use special solutions, which are selected depending on the material of the walls.

When installing panels on glue, it is important to choose a quick-drying glue (you can “liquid nails”), which will not leave stains, as it will not work to clean it. However, it must be resistant to excessive moisture. Glue is applied with a notched trowel onto the wall in large drops in a staggered manner. Then panels are fastened to it in turn, joining with each other. It should be noted that with this method of installation it will not be possible to install flush-mounted fixtures.

With the help of panels you can also create windows slopes yourself. You can also make a panel on the wall or decorate an arch from PVC sheet. Various crafts will only transform the interior and make it even more interesting. The original painting of the panels will add originality to the room.

Numerous samples of interior design allow you to quickly select the most suitable option. Today it is easy to find interesting options that will fit both the Provence style and the Loft style. Very original design ideas can be implemented using panels with photo printing.

The design of the hallway of the room with panels will be very interesting and bright.And you can choose bright PVC sheets with floral or abstract patterns that will look great on the background of wooden furniture. An excellent option for a spacious corridor will be panels with a picture, tinted with a not too catchy pattern. In this case, it is best to give preference to bright and rich colors to make the space appear lighter and more welcoming. For those who appreciate elegance and modesty, panels under the tree will be an indispensable option for finishing the hallway.

For the bathroom to find an interesting interior is even easier. Panels with a pattern for a small mosaic or marble look perfect. They fill the bathroom with special charm. And to give them a bit of frills can be due to the molding with gold and silver elements. Panels with 3D images of the marine theme can turn a familiar bathroom into a tropical oasis.

The kitchen area with trim panels can look bright, practical and modern at the same time. For the main part of the walls (preferably the top) it is better to prefer a not too catchy color, but a smaller part can be revetted with panels with a bright pattern.In this case, the working part can be distinguished by another color, conditionally dividing the kitchen into zones. As for the choice of colors and shades, then everything is exclusively individual.

For more information on decorative PVC panels, see the following video.