We are thinking of using laminated mdf panels on the walls of our bathroom and kitchen to avoid tiling and grouting (and all the subsequent cleaning!). B&Q and various other suppliers in the UK stock them, but I've not yet found anything similar at any of the French DIY shops. Has anyone come across them here, or had them fitted?
Yes John I agree, if that is the test, as it is similar to the test for structural ply wood used in formwork. I would just try to keep the joints and ends well protected from ingress of water
Not a fan of MDF either but the Medite core of the splashwall panel sounds way above the usual grade or even the green water resistant version I frequently have to use.
http://www.medite-europe.com/images/uploads/product_downloads/Medite_Exterior_Datasheet.pdf
They test it by boiling for two hours! if it passes that it can't be too bad.
Hi Clare
It looks like a good product, but they say water resistant and not waterproof. My concern would be the joints at the base and the edges. See if you can get a sample piece and test it. If the core was polystyrene or some other substance like a cellulose fibre board that is not going to attract water and swell, it would be better,
Nothing worse than doing something like you are tackling only to find out few months down the track it is not standing up to what you expected.
I am not planning on using standard, laminated mdf, I am trying to source the products specifically designed for bathrooms and kitchens, such as the one below.
Hi Clare
I would certainly not use MDF anywhere near water, as it is like blotting paper and you'll be replacing it within a few months. A laminate stuck on would be a better bet, but the background needs to be perfectly straight.
I think you are better off biting the bullet and doing it properly.
Hi Daniel
I’d be interested in knowing more about these please.
Thanks Melissa, this is exactly the sort of board we are looking for here in France. Daniel - do you have a link, so I can look at what is available? We are still constructing the internal walls, but thought it would be good to know sizes etc before screwing in place, to avoid all those awkward thin strips etc.
MDF panels are vulnerable to moisture but there is new panelling specifically for showers which is 11mm ply - See the following discription from a random website. In UK not sure about France as we have not yet looked.
Shower Wall Panel Kits
A stylish alternative to tiles inside your shower enclosure with NO GROUT LINES for easy cleaning and maintenance
Made from 11mm thick Laminated Plywood, with metal polished silver corners and end caps
Our shower panel kits provide all you need for panelling a 1200 x 900 shower enclosure. If your enclosure is smaller than 1200 x 900, then you can easily cut the panels down to size.
The panelling is sealed using the sealant supplied. Run a bead of sealant inside the corner profile, and the end caps, and the panels slot into the sealed grooves, making a completely water tight seal. Guaranteed for 10 Years!
Hi we distribute them and deliver direct to your door step in France , if you would like to send us measurements we can return costings
Thanks Daniel