Installation Methods
(I) Light Steel Baluster Installation
Application: Suitable for interior partition walls, suspended ceilings, and curtain wall linings.
Features: Easy installation, ensures overall wall stability, and allows for filling the baluster space with sound insulation or thermal insulation materials to enhance the functionality of the space.
Material Preparation
Fiber Cement Board: For suspended ceiling applications, a thickness of 6-12mm is recommended; for partition walls, a thickness of 8-15mm is recommended.
Light Steel Baluster: Thickness generally ranges from 0.6-1.2mm, with main baluster spacing typically set at 600mm.
Self-tapping Screws: Used to secure cement board to balusters, maintaining a spacing of 200-300mm. Galvanized, rust-resistant screws are required to prevent rust from affecting the fixing and structural safety.
Waterproof Sealant: Used to caulk and seal panel joints to prevent moisture infiltration and other problems.
Construction Steps
Laying Out and Positioning: Based on the design drawings, accurately mark the floor, wall, and other subsurface surfaces to determine the installation location of the light-gauge steel keels. This ensures that the keel layout conforms to the design plan and provides an accurate reference for subsequent installation.
Installing the Light-Gauge Steel Keels:
Main keels are installed at 600mm intervals, with vertical keels spaced 400mm apart. Securely fasten to the floor and ceiling using specialized hardware to ensure the stability of the keel framework.
Securing the Fiber Cement Board: Connect the keel to the keel using 5-10mm self-tapping screws, securing them at 200-300mm intervals. A 3-5mm gap should be left between the boards to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations and prevent deformation and cracking. Use waterproof sealant or caulk to fill the gaps to ensure a waterproof seal and prevent moisture from intruding and affecting the structure and decorative effect.
(II) Direct Adhesion Method
Scope of Application: Mainly suitable for wall decoration on concrete or brick base walls.
Features: Relatively simple construction, fast installation, and relatively low cost, but requires high base smoothness and adhesive quality.
Material Preparation
Cement Board: Select the appropriate specifications and thickness based on actual needs.
Adhesive: Use a high-quality adhesive compatible with the cement board and base wall, such as polymer cement mortar, to ensure good adhesion.
Waterproof Coating (Optional): If used in humid environments, such as basements, waterproof coating is required to enhance waterproofing.
Application Steps
Base Preparation: Thoroughly clean the base wall surface, removing dust, oil, loose materials, and other impurities. Ensure the base is flat, dry, and solid to ensure adequate adhesion of the adhesive.
Apply Adhesive: Apply the adhesive evenly to the base wall surface, controlling the thickness and application method according to the adhesive product instructions to ensure even distribution.
Attaching the cement board: Attach the cement board to the adhesive-coated base in the desired position. Use a rubber hammer or other tool to gently tap the board to ensure full contact with the adhesive, expel any air, and ensure a secure, even bond.
Filling the board gaps: After the cement board is attached and the adhesive has initially cured, use waterproof sealant or flexible putty to seal the gaps, improving overall aesthetics and waterproofing.