PLAS-TEX® is a revolutionary Parkland Plastic™ wall covering that offers a beautiful and durable solution for almost all wall surfaces. This waterproof option is easy to install and can withstand tough usage while lasting a lifetime. PLAS-TEX® is made from 95% recycled industrial plastic scrap that would otherwise be destined for landfills. Below are a few crucial tips for installing PLAS-TEX® wall coverings in any temperature-controlled space. Here’s what to know about PLAS-TEX® before installing.
Preparation for Installation of PLAS-TEX®
PLAS-TEX® has specific characteristics that home and building owners should note when preparing to install.
The first thing to know about PLAS-TEX® is the material is highly flexible. This means you must allow the material to lie flat for about 24 hours before installation. The wall covering bends easily, and folding or rolling the wall covering works to bring it home. However, laying it out flat for 24 hours is necessary to ensure the material returns to total flatness before installation.
Allowing the PLAS-TEX® to lie flat for at least a day will ensure that you have no problems with bulging panels after installation.
Using the Right Adhesives for PLAS-TEX®
PLAS-TEX® requires a continuous adhesive bond for permanence. Parkland Plastics™ recommends Parkland Panel Adhesive for application on non-porous surfaces. This is available as a special order directly from Parkland Plastics™. Another option for non-porous surfaces is 3M HI-Strength 90 spray adhesive.
For application on porous surfaces, the best adhesives to use are:
- Liquid Nails FRP #310
- Liquid Nails LN320
- Franklin Titebond Fast Grab FRP Adhesive
- PL FRP Adhesive
Recommended adhesives for .060″ & .090″ PLAS-TEX® interior wall panels are all trowel-style. Note that any adhesives that release flammable vapors are not recommended for this product.
Adhesives in tubes are also not recommended as they will cause bumps to form once dry. Furthermore, application by trowel ensures a more secure, even bond.
Where PLAS-TEX® Should Not Be Applied
An important thing to know about PLAS-TEX® wall coverings it that they can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. As a result, the wall covering should only be applied to the walls in rooms where temperatures are maintained. Application to the exterior of the home and garages, RVs, or similar places with widely fluctuating temperatures is not advised.
PLAS-TEX® is designed for walls only. Ceiling installation is not recommended as the adhesive requires a few days to dry and set completely.
What About Moldings for PLAS-TEX® Installation?
PLAS-TEX® is installed with caulked seams. Many retail stores carry rigid PVC moldings that work well with PLAS-TEX® wall coverings. Generally, the molding will work best if you apply caulk before affixing it to the wall covering. This will help ensure a watertight connection.
Where Can I Buy PLAS-TEX®?
PLAS-TEX® wall coverings are available for purchase from Home Depot, Lowes, Menards, and other home improvement stores.
Note that the color in the PLAS-TEX® material can vary slightly from one production run to the next, so purchasing all the material you need at one time is advised.
About Parkland Plastics™
Parkland Plastics™ has been an innovator in the building industry since its inception in 1990.
As the world’s oldest recycled polymer-based architectural panel manufacturer, Parkland Plastics™ designs and manufactures cutting-edge laminated panel systems, high-performance panels and adhesives, and decorative composite architectural panels.
PLAS-TEX® is one of the latest innovations from Parkland Plastics™. The development of this 95% recycled product for interior walls is another example of the company’s ecological focus.
Learn more about Parkland Plastics™ commitment to ecological improvement by visiting their website today.