Multipanel Economy 3mm Installation Guide

Multipanel Economy 3mm wall panels offer a cost-effective way to update bathrooms, shower enclosures and wet areas without the need for extensive tiling work. Designed to be installed over suitable existing surfaces, these lightweight decorative panels provide a stylish and practical wall covering that is easy to maintain.

This page provides a simplified overview of the manufacturer's installation instructions for Multipanel Economy 3mm wall panels. You can also view the complete installation guide using the interactive brochure below.

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Important: Looking for Multipanel 11mm Panels?

This installation guide applies only to Multipanel Economy 3mm wall panels.

If you are installing Multipanel Tile Collection, Pure Collection, Linda Barker Collection, Contemporary Collection or Classic Collection wall panels, please refer to our dedicated Multipanel 11mm Installation Guide as the installation methods and panel systems are different.

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Before You Start

Before installation begins, inspect all panels and trims carefully.

Check:

• Panels for damage or defects
• Colours and sheen levels match
• Grout patterns align correctly between panels
• Decorative surfaces are free from marks
• The correct face of embossed panels is identified

Once installation has started, panels are considered accepted in good condition.

Conditioning and Storage

For the best results, store the panels correctly before fitting.

• Store panels flat and horizontally
• Keep in a cool, dry environment
• Maintain temperatures between 5°C and 25°C
• Allow panels and adhesive to acclimatise for 48 to 72 hours
• Never lean panels against a wall
• Avoid areas with high humidity

Large panels should always be carried by two people.

Tools Required

You will typically need:

• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Masking tape
• High-grab adhesive
• Silicone sealant and applicator gun
• Power drill and screwdriver
• Circular saw, jigsaw or hand saw
• Safety gloves
• Eye protection
• Preparing the Walls

Multipanel Economy 3mm panels can be installed onto many existing surfaces, including:

• Existing wall tiles
• Plasterboard
• Concrete walls
• Chipboard
• Plywood

The wall surface must be:

• Sound
• Dry
• Flat
• Clean

If the wall is uneven, timber battens or grounds may be required to create a level installation surface.

Cutting the Panels

Measure carefully before cutting and ensure grout patterns align correctly between adjoining panels.

When cutting:

• Use a fine-tooth saw blade
• Cut decorative face down when using a jigsaw or circular saw
• Wear eye protection
• Wear gloves during handling

Always double-check measurements before making cuts.

Installing Multipanel Economy 3mm Panels

Step 1 – Install the First Profile

Installation normally begins with either:

• Internal Corner Profile
• End Cap Profile

Fix the profile using screws or high-grab adhesive.

Apply a bead of silicone sealant inside the profile channel before fitting the panel.

Step 2 – Apply Adhesive

Apply high-grab adhesive to the back of the panel or directly to the wall surface.

Position the panel into the profile and press firmly into place.

Step 3 – Fit Additional Panels

Apply silicone sealant inside the next profile before attaching it to the edge of the installed panel.

Continue fitting panels across the wall, ensuring:

• Profiles are sealed
• Panels remain level
• Joints are watertight

Fit end caps where required.

Step 4 – Seal All Joints

All vertical joints and panel edges must be sealed with silicone.

Proper sealing is essential to prevent water ingress and maintain warranty protection.

Installing Around Baths and Shower Trays

Economy 3mm panels can be installed with approximately a 3mm gap between the bottom of the panel and the shower tray or bath.

This gap should then be fully sealed using silicone sealant to create a watertight finish.

Wet Area Installations

In wet rooms and similar environments, panels can be installed using a Type F capping section.

The profile should be fully sealed to the floor finish to maintain waterproof protection.

Fitting Shower Valves and Controls

When drilling or cutting openings for:

• Shower valves
• Pipework
• Controls
• Accessories

Leave approximately 2mm clearance around the opening.

Seal the gap completely using silicone sealant.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Once installed, Economy 3mm panels require very little maintenance.

For routine cleaning:

• Use warm water
• Use a soft cloth
• Use a mild non-abrasive detergent

Avoid:

• Scouring pads
• Abrasive cleaners
• Harsh chemicals

Using unsuitable cleaning products may affect the appearance of the panels and could invalidate the warranty.

Warranty Information

Multipanel Economy 3mm panels are supplied with a 1-year domestic warranty when installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The warranty covers cracking, blistering and delamination while maintaining watertight performance.

The warranty requires the use of Multipanel High Grab Panel Adhesive and correct sealing throughout the installation.

This guide is intended as a simplified overview of the manufacturer's recommendations. For complete installation details, measurements and profile configurations, please refer to the full Multipanel Economy 3mm installation guide using the interactive brochure above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Multipanel Economy 3mm panels be fitted over tiles?

Yes. Economy 3mm panels can be installed over existing wall tiles provided the surface is sound, clean, dry and reasonably flat.

Do I need special adhesive?

Yes. Multipanel recommends using Multipanel High Grab Panel Adhesive for installation.

Can I install Economy 3mm panels in a shower?

Yes. They are suitable for shower areas when correctly sealed at all joints, edges and profiles.

Do I need to seal the bottom edge?

Yes. The bottom edge must always be silicone sealed to prevent water ingress.

Can I cut the panels to size?

Yes. Economy 3mm panels can be cut using a hand saw, jigsaw or circular saw fitted with a suitable blade.

How long should the panels acclimatise before fitting?

Panels and adhesive should be stored in the installation room for 48 to 72 hours before fitting.

Can I fit shower controls through the panels?

Yes. Leave a small clearance gap around cut-outs and seal the opening fully with silicone.

How do I clean Multipanel Economy 3mm panels?

Clean with warm water and a mild non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid scouring products and abrasive cleaning materials.