Installation
GigaPixArt panels are designed as an easy-fitting alternative to other wall claddings and coverings.
When used as a purely decorative stand-alone wall covering, we recommend a floating hanging system. In this display method the artwork has a rear hidden frame, creating a floating effect from the wall. The frame ensures absolute rigidity and flatness, and adds to the stylish and premium look of the Chromaluxe material. Just fix 2 angle screws into the wall and hang your artwork.
FLOATING HANGING SYSTEM FOR SINGLE PANEL ARTWORKS
When using GigaPixArt panels in large format and with the intention to use as a protective wall covering, the 2 main aspects to consider are:
Used as a protective wall covering only
In this application the panels can be installed by the home-owner, providing that they feel confident in doing so. If you would like a professional to do the installation, we recommend that you source tradesmen with experience in plastering/kitchen/bathroom installations.
Used as a protective wall covering with electrical sockets or water pipe connections
In this application, all electrical fittings must be removed and reinstalled by a licensed electrician. This is the time to decide if you wish to make any changes to the location and size of your electrical outlets, as the cutouts for electrical sockets or water connections need to be cut before the panels are installed [Information for cutouts for electrical sockets and water connections can be found on the FAQ page of our website].
In either of the 2 above applications, the most important aspect in preparation is to ensure that your walls are flat, completely straight and free of dirt and dust. By using a spirit level and a flat rigid bar, you can ascertain if GigaPixArt panels are ready to fit.
For newly plastered walls, ensure that the walls are primed to ensure adhesion. For shower walls and other areas of high moisture, newly plastered walls will also need a moisture sealant applied directly on the walls before fitting our panels.
One of the advantages in using our panels is that they can also be fitted directly onto existing materials such as ceramic tiles, as long as the material is untextured and flat. This would avoid removing the existing material, subsequently saving on extra time, work and expense.
Illustration of multi-panel installation
*Ensure that expansion gaps have been taken into account for the application before all measurements are stated.
Adhesive & Sealant
– Use spacers between panel corners, furniture, kitchen counters, shower trays, etc, to ensure a 3mm gap for expansion/contraction. Where 2 or more panels are placed side-by-side, no expansion gaps are necessary. A thin bead of silicone should be applied between panels to seal against moisture.
– Check that all panels fit correctly by dry-fitting before applying silicone adhesive. After applying silicone and fitting panels, allow to dry for 24 hours, then remove the spacers and apply silicone around all edges. Leave to dry for another 24 hours before use.
Electrical Socket / Water Pipe Cutout Guide
When GigaPixArt panels require cutouts for electrical sockets and water connections, measurements are critical. Unless you feel confident in measuring the location and dimensions of required cutouts yourself, we recommend the services of a professional to attempt this. Likewise, when cutouts are performed, the correct tools and skills will determine if the project is undertaken correctly.
Cutouts should not be made closer than 15cm from the panel edge, therefore this should be taken into account when ordering panels. Cutouts must take into account the 3mm expansion gaps around panels when taking measurements. It is vital that cutouts leave sufficient space around electrical socket boxes for installation, while socket faceplates fit over the panel face.
When the panel is ready to be cut, masking tape should be applied to the area of the printed side. The area around the cutout will need to be sandwiched between 2 sheets of sacrificial acrylic or MDF board and held securely with G-Clamps. The sandwiched panel will then need to be secured to a workbench. It is important that the panels are held firmly to minimise vibration in order to achieve the cleanest cut possible.
Use a blunt drill-bit on a slow speed to begin drilling a pilot hole near a corner of an electrical socket cutout. Next, use a handheld router with a cutting bit suitable for aluminium and plastic. Run the router in gradually deeper cuts until the bit has cut right through. Use a fine hand file and sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges from the cut.
