Fastening MDF panels to the wall - how to fasten them and how to do it correctly. Methods for attaching panels to the wall At what distance are MDF panels attached?

Be it a small corner in the bedroom or living room, or completely wood-clad walls throughout the apartment. There are several types wood panels. Today we’ll talk about how to attach them.

There are no special difficulties in attaching such material. But it won’t hurt to understand its types, so as not to make a mistake and not use, for example, panels for the living room in the bathroom or on.

Types of wood panels

All types of this material are wood-based products.

Most cheap option, available to us since ancient times - chipboard panels. The wood processing product is not particularly durable and is not resistant to moisture. The boards can be cached or laminated. A version of this cladding is suitable for a heated country house, but not for an apartment.
MDF panels, great option in the price-quality ratio. Beautiful appearance like natural wood, the composition is also good. Ideal for cladding living spaces and hallways.
Solid wood is expensive, stylish, high quality, not everyone can afford such luxury. The use of such material in the interior will make it unique.
Slatted, glued and cork panels.

In a word, for every taste and budget.

Advice. Any panels, including wooden ones, need acclimatization. This means that the purchased material must lie in the room where it is planned to be installed for at least a day.

Mounting methods

There are several ways to attach wooden panels to the wall.

The simplest and least dirty - on a wooden frame or metal profile using screws, nails or staples (for a wooden frame);
For glue. The method is only relevant for perfectly flat surfaces, since the panels are glued directly to the wall using glue.

Advice. Do not install wooden panels at zero or sub-zero temperatures.

Frame mounting method

Which frame should I use: wood or metal? The answer is obvious – the second, and for several reasons:

light in weight.
It costs less than timber.
Can be used in damp areas.

Timber can also be used if you have one. If not, then it’s not worth buying, since the material available for sale is almost always wet, and this is not very good for the frame.

If you choose wooden sheathing, then follow these recommendations.

Rigid fastening method

We mark the base for the frame.
We calculate the distance between the vertical and horizontal slats. On average it should be 60–70 centimeters. The thicker the finishing material, the larger the gaps may be.
We make the harness from timber. In detail, we first drill holes in wooden block, then we apply it to the wall and through these holes we mark the places where we will screw in the screws. We drill holes slightly larger than self-tapping screws. We drive the dowels there, and then screw our slats.
We stretch the thread between the contours and see where and how the base bends. We plan bars of different thicknesses to level the wall (we make a so-called “shabashka” - a lining under the timber/frame slats), fasten it in the same way as the slats, with self-tapping screws.

The frame is ready, you can cover the surface with our panels.

A soft frame can be made using drywall staples, however, this is not best option, since such fastening is very unreliable and is susceptible to more or less strong mechanical loads. It is quite suitable for cladding, but for walls it is better to choose the first option.

Metal profile frame, wall cladding

First, we attach the level and secure the main parts. Insert vertical guides. Installation is no different from installing a wooden frame.
Installing the corner profile.
We install all the accessories - ceiling and floor, corners, finishing element.

Now let's figure out how to cover a wall with wooden panels.

We calculate how many panels we need to cover the wall. If the quantity is full, then we proceed to installation; if it is incomplete, then we will cut the first and last panels so that they have the same width. This will make the finished wall look complete.
We will start installing the panels from the corner. We move either from the openings (door or window) to the corner, or from the left corner to the right. Let's bend the material just a little and insert it into the upper and lower guides, and into the left corner until it clicks, check with a level.
We will do the same with all other panels. We fix each element on the frame and check it with a level.
We do not fasten the last panel with anything; it will be held in place by the previous one and by the angle.

Advice. It is better to reduce the last panel by a few millimeters to take into account thermal expansion.

Glue method

Relevant for perfectly flat surfaces or for prepared bases, pre-plastered, leveled and puttied. In this case, the question of how to make wooden ones is not worth it at all. Such work is accessible even to a beginner in repair.

We will not consider ways to bring the base into the appropriate form, but will immediately move on to the installation of our wooden panels. It is extremely simple and allows you to do without complex tools. We clean the surface from dust, prime it, let it dry, apply glue and glue the panels one after another, starting from the corner, installing each next one in the groove of the previous one.

Fastening wooden various types not much different from fastening plastic ones. But only wood material can give your home warmth, comfort and unique charm.

The choice in favor of MDF panels is worth making in cases where you need to quickly, efficiently and at the same time inexpensively finish the walls in a room. This material is especially good if you plan to lay an additional thermal insulation layer.
MDF is based on wood waste, which is mixed with adhesive solution and then pressed. This structure of the material can be compared with chipboard boards, but unlike them, MDF panels do not contain harmful chemical compounds and various resins. The result is a high-quality environmentally friendly product that can be safely used for interior decoration residential premises.
There are two possible ways to attach MDF panels to the wall - frame and glue. Each of these options is good in its own way, and their choice depends on specific circumstances. For example, when there is a need to disguise existing communications, it is best to do this using MDF frame fastening. If the finishing work will be carried out on smooth walls, then you can safely use the option with glue installation.

Tool kit for panel fastening

Finishing work will proceed faster and better if you have tools such as:

Tape measure (will allow you to outline the places for future fixation of the sheathing elements and determine the required length of the panel);
Construction level (everything is clear here - it is used to check the evenness of both the frame itself and the mounted MDF panels);
Electric drill or screwdriver;
Metal corner (will make sure the corners are even);
A jigsaw (in the absence of one, a hand saw will do);
Nails, screws, glue.

Frame method and its features

This option for installing panels has much in common with covering walls with plasterboard: first of all, the sheathing (metal or wood) is installed, after which the panels are fixed. Both nails or self-tapping screws and clamps are suitable for this - special elements that snap the panel onto the frame, which minimizes its movement. By the way, this is a necessary condition when working with such finishing material, because, like with natural wood, MDF sizes may vary.

Frame method of fastening MDF panels: pros and cons

Creating lathing during the installation of wall panels has the following advantages:

Walls don't need preliminary preparation(if desired, you don’t even have to remove the old finish);
A properly installed frame will allow you to achieve maximum evenness of the walls;
In case of unplanned repairs, the panels can be easily removed from the sheathing.

The disadvantages of this method of installing panels include:

Creating a system of profiles, its subsequent fixation and leveling can cause certain difficulties even for those who until this moment have not been particularly involved in repair or finishing works ah, so most often you have to turn to professionals for help;
Installation of the frame and its subsequent covering “eats” several centimeters of free space in the room, which reduces its area;
Installation of the frame seems costly in terms of money and time, and therefore one cannot count on quick completion of the work.

Installation of wood sheathing

Installation of wooden sheathing begins with fastening vertical stand. First, the rack is installed in the corner of the room, after which they move on to the window and doorways(mount the racks in the direction from the floor to the ceiling). Using a plumb line, check the verticality of the racks.
Then the stand is applied to the wall, on which the corresponding marks are applied - future holes for fastening. The distance between the holes (a drill is used to create them) varies from 50 to 70 cm. After this, “sockets” are placed in the prepared holes for fixation, and their position is again marked with a marker or pencil. It is necessary to drill a hole two to three times the diameter of the future fastener, which is then inserted back. By the way, experienced craftsmen they prefer to do it a little differently: they initially drill holes in the racks, while the markings are done directly through the racks.
All subsequent logs are mounted in the same way. It is noteworthy that logs are installed on top of the openings and under the window sill, despite the “step”. The slats are also mounted outside and inside the window opening.
A plane is used to remove ledges on the slats and at their joints.

Features of wooden lathing

Creating a wooden sheathing seems more simple solution for the reason that there is no need to install a large number of hardware. But wood remains an expensive material; in order to protect such a frame from the possible appearance of fungus, you will have to take care pre-treatment lathing with protective equipment.
From the idea of installing a wooden frame in brick house or in a room where it is observed high humidity, it is better to refuse immediately - due to moisture penetrating through the pores of the brick in the layer between the wall and the panels, excellent conditions will be created for the proliferation of pests.

Installation of metal sheathing

The principle of installing a metal sheathing is very similar to installing a wooden frame. First of all, they are fixed corner posts, after which they proceed to the transverse racks and racks in the openings. The pitch of the metal sheathing is exactly the same as that of the wooden one - 50-70 cm. To assemble the racks, narrow UD and wide CD profiles are used. To check horizontality and pitch, use a building level or tape measure. First, the metal slats are fixed to the racks, and then to the wall. The connecting element between the sheathing parts and the wall are self-tapping screws, but it is better to avoid dowel nails so that the profile does not “float”.

Features of metal lathing

When creating metal frame you can’t do without a profile, special fasteners (aka “ears”) and connecting elements. Experts advise purchasing them for those who have to complete a large amount of work in a relatively short period of time. If one or two rooms need paneling, then you can refrain from purchasing them.
To attach the metal frame to the wall, only self-tapping screws are used (for concrete base Self-tapping screws with diameters of 4-6 mm are suitable, and if the wall is of enviable strength, then a smaller fastener diameter will be required). By the way, screws or dowels are attached simultaneously with the plastic “socket”, therefore, the hole in the wall must correspond to its diameter, and the protrusions are not taken into account.

Technology for installing MDF panels on lathing

Wall finishing with MDF panels is carried out as follows:

Using a tape measure, the required length of the panel is measured, and all unnecessary parts are cut off with a jigsaw;
The panel is installed at the installation site in such a way that one of its sides rests against the sheathing adjacent to the wall;
Using nails or self-tapping screws, the panel is fixed to each lath of the sheathing, while the distance from the edge of the panel should be 1 cm. In the future, all the caps will be masked with decorative corners;
To fasten the panel from the groove side, clamps are used. To firmly fix the panel, the protrusion of each clamp must fit into its groove. To secure the clamps to the sheathing slats, it is enough to use nails;
Then the required length of the panel is cut again, which is inserted into the groove of the adjacent panel (the result is recorded with clamps). In this way, all subsequent panels are installed;
As a rule, the last corner panel cannot be accommodated entirely. Therefore, the required width is measured, the appropriate markings are applied to the surface of the panel, and the excess part with the groove is cut off using a jigsaw;
The resulting cut is placed in the groove of the penultimate panel. The part of the panel that rests on the sheathing is fixed with nails directly to the frame slats. The finishing of the remaining corners of the room is carried out in the same way.

Adhesive method of fastening MDF panels

Relatively in a simple way When installing MDF panels on walls, they are mounted with glue, because in this case there is no need to pre-install the frame. In order for the result to be of the highest quality, it is necessary to select the appropriate adhesive base:

The glue must have inherent plasticity;
The glue must cope with slight unevenness of the walls so that there are no difficulties in fixing the panels on surfaces with slight curvatures;
The texture of the glue should be thick, but at the same time allow a thin, uniform layer to be applied.

Choosing the adhesive method MDF installations panels, we must not forget about some of its disadvantages, such as:

The finishing material is firmly fixed to the wall, so any repairs in the future will be problematic;
The risk of panels rotting increases due to the lack of ventilation between them and the wall;
If there are unevenness on the walls exceeding 5 mm, care must be taken to level them, which will increase the time of repair work.

In any case, even if there are no visible differences on the treated surface, the walls need preliminary priming and subsequent putty.

Technology for fastening MDF panels with glue

Installation of the panels is carried out on the prepared wall (all existing debris and dust are removed) in several stages:

Markings are applied to the wall, starting from the corner of the room, which will allow you to determine the joining locations of the panels themselves. To define vertical and horizontal boundaries finishing material, you can use a marking cord or a simple rope;
Glue is applied to inner side panels either dotted or in a checkerboard pattern, after which you need to wait a while for it to set (as a rule, the time is specified in the instructions on the package);
After this, the panel is pressed against the wall and smoothed with smooth movements in the direction from its center to the edges;
Using a level, check the evenness of the attached panel, after which all manipulations are repeated with next panel. Depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations, the adjacent panel will be fixed overlapping or butt-to-butt.

What to remember before attaching MDF panels to the wall

Regardless of whether the panels will be attached to the frame, or will be responsible for their fixation, we must not forget about such nuances as:

The MDF panel simply cannot be bent, so the part that will be adjacent to the corner of the room is carefully trimmed, after which the edge is masked with a special corner;
When it comes to frame method when covering walls with panels, it is necessary to ensure that the horizontal profile is on the floor, which will ensure reliable fastening of the plinth;
To prevent future distortion, installation of the first panel is carried out using a vertical level and self-tapping screws. The latter will not at all spoil the appearance of the finish, since their caps will cover the baseboards and decorative overlays in the corners.

This is the finishing process MDF walls panels can be considered complete. In some ways it may seem simple, in others it can be challenging. The main thing is to choose initially quality materials, follow the technology for performing the work, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not turn a blind eye to the little things that directly affect the overall outcome of the repair.

1538 10/09/2019 8 min.

MDF panels are often used as an element of interior decoration.. This popularity is explained by various positive characteristics, among which it is worth noting the attractive appearance and environmental friendliness. Using these panels allows you to quickly and inexpensively decorate the rooms in your apartment, but how to attach them to the wall? We will talk about this in today's article.

How to attach MDF panels to the wall, how to attach correctly

Before starting renovations, many people ask the question: how to attach MDF panels to the wall? Today, there are only two installation methods of this material finishes:

directly . In order for the work to be carried out competently, you need to choose not only high-quality adhesive composition, but also prepare the surface.

installation on the lathing. IN in this case, the lathing can be made in two versions - wooden and metal.

The panels are attached to the ceiling in the same way. about finishing the ceiling. Let's consider positive aspects both ways:

if you choose the option with lathing, then it doesn’t matter to you what condition the walls are in. In other words, there is no need to pre-plaster them, putty them, etc.;
metal lathing is advisable in rooms where there is sufficiently high humidity. It is also recommended to use in such rooms;
this is explained by the fact that the metal frame is least susceptible to moisture, and it does not change its configuration under this influence;
using lathing is also advisable if you intend lay thermal insulation material for finishing with MDF panels. Thanks to the lathing, you will have a lot of space between the wall and the panels themselves;

gluing panels allows you to save space in the room, which is very important for small rooms. But here it is very important to prepare the walls correctly, because you won’t be able to glue the panels wherever you want.

To understand all the subtleties and nuances of both methods, let's consider each of them in more detail.

Knowing how to attach MDF to a wall will help you choose the option that’s right for you and your space.

For more information on installing MDF panels to the wall, watch the video:

Types and production of lathing

First, let's look at how to attach it to the wall using lathing. We have already said that the sheathing can be made of wood or metal, so we will look at each of these options. Let's start with the most accessible in terms of finance - frame made of wooden elements.

How to fasten wooden

The manufacturing process is as follows. First you need to go to hardware store, where we need a wooden block.

The ideal option would be a beam with a cross-section of 3x3 cm. When choosing, you also need to pay attention to the condition of the beam itself - it should be smooth, without chips or visible deformations.

Also great value has humidity - this figure should not exceed 15 percent. Also in the store you need to purchase antiseptic fire protection - this is a special composition that allows you to protect wood from fungus and mold. In addition, this composition reduces the risk of wood fire.

The composition is applied to the timber using a regular brush. If something is unclear, then all the information you are interested in is indicated directly on the container with this composition. Now you can move on to measurements. Using a regular tape measure, we measure the width and length of the walls, so that we can then cut the bars to the desired size.

Remember that the length of the bars should be slightly less than the distance between the walls. If you make a mistake in these measurements, then the beams will have to be squeezed between the surfaces, and this will inevitably lead to damage to the material.

The lathing can have a vertical and horizontal direction. It all depends on how you will attach the MDF elements to the wall or ceiling. MDF for the ceiling.

Remember that if the panels are mounted across the wall, then the sheathing elements should be positioned horizontally, and vice versa.

Next we move on to cutting our bars. The work is simple, but even here many beginners manage to make mistakes. To avoid this, position the hacksaw strictly perpendicular to the material - this is how you will achieve perfectly even ends.

The method of fastening the bars depends on the material of the wall surface. If the walls are wooden, then The bars are fastened with ordinary self-tapping screws.

Fastening with self-tapping screws

If the walls are made of brick or concrete, then you need to use dowels. The bars must be positioned strictly parallel to each other, so watch this moment.

It is also important that the bars are on the same plane, so check them using a level. After making the frame, you can proceed to laying the heat-insulating layer.

A good option would be regular mineral wool in rolls, which can be cut into pieces of the sizes we need.

Now you can proceed directly to attaching the panels to the sheathing. There are several ways to attach MDF sheet panels to the wall. The first method is fastening with clamps, which look like a staple.

Can also be mounted using 3x20 mm self-tapping screws and finishing nails with a small hat. The choice of one option or another is a purely individual matter, because each person has his own preferences and skills. At the end of the work, corners are installed on the external and internal corners.

It is best to simply glue them to the panels, because any other fastening elements will be visible on the surface, which will worsen the appearance of the finish.

Metal fasteners

Now consider the option of using sheathing made of metal elements.

Let's get started from fastening the wall profile. We mark a line around the perimeter, after which we attach the elements to the surfaces. They are also fastened with dowels or self-tapping screws - it all depends on the material of the wall surface. Next, mark the lines along which the profile elements will be fastened.

Each profile strip should be at a distance of half a meter from the other. To ensure that the frame is level, straight hangers are installed along the marked lines, with the help of which not only alignment is carried out, but also strengthening of the entire structure. Next, elements of the main profile are inserted into the straight hangers.

Fastening is carried out with small self-tapping screws, and the ends of the hangers are bent. You also need to ensure that all elements are on the same plane.

The level is also used for these purposes. Installation of MDF panels to a metal profile is best done using clamps.

Single standard brick is the most common among all types of bricks. its size.

Putty is necessary when carrying out finishing work. learn how to thin putty.

To create concrete and cement mixtures crushed stone of various fractions is used. By going over, you will become familiar with the weight of the crushed stone.

We connect them to the profile using small self-tapping screws. It’s good if you have a screwdriver with a magnetic attachment, which will allow you to do all the work much faster. The final stage will be attaching the external and internal corners to MDF panels. As in the first case, glue them on liquid nails.

Gluing sheet panels

Now let's look at how to properly attach mdf panels on the wall using an adhesive composition.

This option is possible if the surface of the walls is perfectly flat and their finish is sufficiently reliable.

Otherwise, the panels will lag behind the wall along with the plaster or the coating that is present there. There is nothing difficult in this work, so you can probably handle it on our own, if you follow the following recommendations and procedures.

First, we examine the condition of the wall. If in any areas there are cracks then you need them seal with plaster.

In general, preparing the wall takes almost more time and effort than installing the panels on the surface itself. After leveling the wall, Let's move on to the primer.

We use a composition with deep penetration, which will improve the adhesion of the glue and the wall surface. For work we use a regular roller, after which we cover all the walls with primer. You also need to take measurements of all walls. This is necessary so that the MDF can be cut to the required parameters.

The cutting process itself can be done manually using a hacksaw, but It is best to use a jigsaw.

We apply adhesive on the reverse side. Remember that the panel must adhere securely to the surface, so to better effect, apply glue dots to the perimeter of the wall itself.

Gluing the panels is quite simple. We bring the element to the wall, and then press it for 10-15 seconds. In this way, work is carried out along the entire perimeter of the wall.

The final stage will be gluing the outer and inner corners. We glue them with the same adhesive that we used when working with MDF panels.

There is an option in which both methods of attaching panels are combined. For example, many craftsmen glue to wooden sheathing using liquid nails or other adhesives. This option has a right to life, especially in cases where further dismantling of the panels may be required.

I would also like to dwell on how attach the plinth to the wall. Many people don't think much about this, attaching them with regular liquid nails. But this is not the most good option, in our opinion. Better to stick them to the wall for special brackets, resembling hooks.

Their width is 10 cm, and they need to be attached to the wall at a distance of 50 cm from each other. The mounting method also depends on the wall material, so either self-tapping screws or dowels are used.

We take the baseboards and then place them tightly against these corners. The joints are masked using corners, and the cuts are closed with plugs. The skirting boards can be painted later, or a varnish composition can be applied to them.

Tools for fixing wall panel

Before you start attaching MDF panels to the wall, you need to make sure that you have everything you need. You will need the following set of tools:

hacksaw. We will need a hacksaw with fine teeth for cutting wood, as well as hacksaw for working on metal. At the same time, if we plan to make the sheathing from wood, then we will need a hacksaw not only with small, but also with large teeth;

building level and a regular measuring tape. All these elements are necessary for measurement, so they must be available without fail. You will also need a regular pencil, as well as a square, with which you can control the evenness of the ends of the beams;

gun for applying glue. Using this device, it is much easier and faster to apply adhesive to MDF panels and wall surfaces.

You will also need a construction knife with which we will cut the corners required sizes. Naturally, we will need a sufficient number of fasteners - screws, dowels, etc.

There are quite a lot of videos on the Internet devoted to the process of attaching panels to walls. in various ways. Just type the request - “MDF panels for walls, how to mount video”, after which your attention will be offered a variety of various options carrying out this work.

Conclusion

Fastening MDF panels to the wall is sufficient simple process which absolutely anyone can handle. You just need to have a minimal understanding of working with tools, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge in practice.

If you follow the tips and recommendations that we have presented to you in this article, then you will absolutely achieve a positive result. Despite the simplicity of the work, MDF panels look very aesthetically pleasing in any room, so their use is completely justified.

Today, one of the simplest and least labor-intensive ways to achieve beautiful and smooth wall cladding is the installation of MDF panels. This material has won favor due to its low cost and non-toxicity, as well as ease of fastening. The work requires only accuracy and precision.

Frame method of fastening panels

In practice, three methods are used for the base: on a wooden frame, on a metal profile lathing, and on an adhesive composition.

Wall insulation

When covering the walls with panels, it would be a good idea to additionally insulate them by filling the sheathing chambers thermal insulation material. In addition to insulation, it provides protection against condensation in the space between the base and the casing.

IN summer time The heat flow into the room will be significantly reduced, and in winter, the heat loss will be correspondingly reduced, thereby allowing significant savings on payments for heat energy consumption.

Installation of wooden sheathing

Frame installation technology wooden slats Unlike metal sheathing, it’s easier. For its construction, fewer fasteners are used, but the lathing requires special antiseptic treatment and cost wooden planks higher than the cost of a metal profile.

The frame installation process consists of several stages:

Marking the location for fixing the first lathing strip. It should be located perpendicular to the length of the fixed panel slats. That is, if the panel slats are attached horizontally, then the sheathing strips should be positioned vertically, and if the slats are attached vertically, then the grille should be positioned horizontally.
Fastening the starting parts of the grid. The place on the base with the largest protrusion is determined; all other frame planks will be aligned to this beacon. The installation of slats should begin with a row passing through the found protrusion on the base. Holes for self-tapping screws are drilled on the bar in increments of 50-60 cm. It should be noted that the more lumpy the wall, the smaller the step should be. Apply a strip to the holes on the wall exactly horizontally and mark the locations of the holes for the dowels (it is advisable to use a level). Then the plank is removed from the wall and, using a hammer drill, holes are drilled in the base and placed plastic dowels. Subsequent planks of the frame row are fastened in a similar way. To make it easier to align the row slats, you can stretch a bright thread along the starting strip, the ends of which are secured with dowels in opposite corners of the room.
Making subsequent rows of sheathing. The first plank of the next row should be located in the same vertical plane with the plank of the previous row. To check, you can use a level applied to the slats of the adjacent rows. If necessary, you can adjust the fastening of the bar by placing small wedges under it. Then the thread is pulled again, acting as a beacon. All rows of the sheathing are performed in this sequence. The distance of the slats between adjacent rows should not be less than half a meter. Installation of horizontal strips is carried out in the same sequence, in increments of 40-60 cm, in this way the casing will not sag. For subsequent installation of ceiling and floor skirting boards rows of planks should be placed along the ceiling line and flooring of the room.
In all corners of the room, on each wall adjacent to one another, vertical planks are attached at right angles.
Installation of wooden slats around the perimeter of openings for windows and doors.

Installation of a metal frame

To install metal sheathing, use a metal profile and connecting fasteners. The products are fixed to the base using self-tapping screws; their length depends on the strength of the base. For the frame, two types of metal profiles are used: narrow (UD) and wide (CD).

The metal frame is made in the same way as the wooden one: racks in the corners and openings, as well as crossbars.

The pitch of the frame is similar to that of the wooden sheathing.

The technology for making a metal frame is as follows:

Installation of narrow profiles in corners, around the perimeter of doors and window openings, and also every three meters. This length corresponds to the length of the support post. All intermediate components will be placed in these racks. Fixation should be carried out firmly in increments of 15-25 cm.
Horizontal posts are connected to horizontal profile via longitudinal CD connectors.
The key profiles are placed with their ends on the edge into the guide profiles and reinforced with self-tapping screws for strength.
If the length of the base on which the casing will be attached is more than two meters, then in order to avoid bending of the profiles from the load of its own weight, it is necessary to additionally secure the fastening brackets. The edges of the brackets are bent at right angles and in this form are placed in the place where the profile is installed. After fixing the profile in the guides, the brackets are fixed to it with bent parts, and their excess part is cut off. Before final fastening of horizontal posts, it is mandatory to check the horizontal position with a level. If there are any errors, then at this stage They can be adjusted after installation.

Fastening panels

Installing the trim on the frame is much simpler than the preliminary work. The panels can be installed from any corner of the room.

Fastening MDF covering carried out in this order:

Marking and cutting the starting panel. Using a tape measure, measure the required length of the panel, marking it accordingly. Using a jigsaw, saw off the excess part and the tenon that runs along the entire length of the panel.
Cutting holes in the casing for lighting fixtures.
Attaching the original panel. The canvas is applied to the attachment point in such a way that its back side is adjacent to the sheathing. The side adjacent to the corner at a distance of 1 cm from its edge is attached to all frame slats with self-tapping screws. On the groove side, the panel is secured with metal clips (clasps) so that its protrusion fits into the groove of the panel, firmly fixing it. The clips are attached to the frame slats using nails.
Installation of subsequent paintings. Cut off required length covering, then place its tenon in the groove of the previous panel and attach it to the frame using clips. All subsequent panels installed to the opposite corner of the wall are attached in the same way. Often, the last canvas does not fit completely, so it is adjusted to the required size. Only the piece that is on the tenon side is needed, so the piece of fabric with the groove is cut off. Next, the tenon is inserted into the groove of the previous panel, and the part of the panel that abuts the frame of the adjacent wall is fixed with nails to the sheathing strips. In this sequence, all walls of the room are decorated with canvases.
Installation of ceiling and floor plinths. Fastening skirting boards can be done in several ways: using fasteners, using self-tapping screws and using glue.
The final stage of installing the panels is the installation of the finishing corner, which covers all corner joints of the covering. To do this, apply to the measured length of the corner thin layer apply the adhesive mixture to the corner part of the walls and press it gently but firmly. To evenly distribute the glue, using a rag, you can walk along the length of the corner several times from the bottom up and back.

Glue installation

This fastening method is suitable when the surface of the walls does not have unevenness or the task is to carefully level them. Also, installing panels with glue is necessary when the wall surface is tiled.

Installation in this way does not require the construction of any frame.

First of all, let's decide on the type of glue that is suitable for this type of work. Any glue will not work in this case; you need a composition that has certain properties:

plasticity not only during operation, but also after hardening (the composition must withstand temperature fluctuations);
thick texture so that it can be applied not only in a thin, but also in a thick layer (in this case, construction adhesive - liquid nails - is perfect).

The installation technology includes several stages:

Cleaning the base surface of old coating, dust, dirt and deposits, followed by processing of the primer mixture.
While the primer layer dries, you can cut the panels to the required size.
After the soil has dried, you can begin installing the panels. To do this, large drops of glue are applied to it pointwise in a checkerboard pattern. Then the canvas is pressed tightly against the wall, after which it is torn off, this is done in order to weather the glue, and also to ensure that the sheathing does not lag behind the base under the weight of its weight. After 5-7 minutes, the canvases are applied to the wall and pressed tightly.

This installation method has several disadvantages:

from the effects of temperature changes when changing seasons, the cladding may swell or, in the worst case, peel off;
when changing the finish, it will be necessary to clean the base from glue residues, as well as the inability to reuse the dismantled panels.

If the room in which it is planned to finish MDF has traces of dampness, swelling or peeling of the putty, before cladding it is imperative to remove the old coating to the permanent base.
The lowest horizontal post of the sheathing should be located on the floor, this will ensure strong fastening of the baseboards.
Experts recommend attaching the covering to the frame, even though the profile reduces the space of the room. This is due to the fact that the cladding has additional ventilation and is less susceptible to seasonal fluctuations in temperature and humidity compared to the adhesive method.
When installing the sheathing, you can use two types of materials, constructing a base around the perimeter from a metal profile, and the transverse elements from wooden slats.
Wooden slats for the frame must be well-dried and even.
Due to the fact that MDF is a highly flammable material, care should be taken to ensure that all external electrical wiring is stored away. corrugated pipe for cables, and sockets and electrical switches in boxes.
MDF cladding is essentially thick pressed cardboard and, accordingly, is susceptible to moisture. Therefore, prolonged exposure to moisture on the surface will lead to delamination and swelling of the coating.
Professionals advise that during the installation of the sheathing, transfer the location of the planks on the base onto paper with exact adherence to the coordinates. This will make it possible in the future to place any interior items on the wall exactly at the place where the slats are attached, and not on the sheathing, on the surface of which it is strictly forbidden to attach anything.

MDF panels are now widely used as a material for interior wall decoration. They have become very popular due to their environmental friendliness, attractive appearance and a number of positive characteristics. Using MDF panels is simple, relatively inexpensive and quick way room decoration. Most often the material is used to repair storerooms, hallways or loggias.

What are MDF panels

This finishing material is made from medium-density fiberboard as a result of hot pressing. wood fibers. As a result of pressure and high temperature lignin, from which wood is composed, becomes elastic, its fibers adhere to each other. Toxic components, such as phenol or resins, are not used in the production of the material, so MDF panels are absolutely safe and environmentally friendly.

The external coating of facing slabs is of three types:

Laminated film that replicates the surface of marble, wood or other natural materials.
Thin veneer made from precious wood.
Relief varnish coating.

When purchasing MDF panels, you should pay attention to their thickness, moisture resistance and strength.

Pros and cons

Of course, like any building and finishing material, MDF panels have their strengths and weaknesses.

Obvious advantages include:

Simplicity and ease of installation. They can be mounted on a frame, which is easy to make, horizontally or vertically, without the need to first apply a layer of plaster.
Good sound insulation.
Attractive appearance, wide choice of colors.
Easy to care for, to keep the walls in neat condition, just wipe them periodically with a damp cloth.
Affordable price.

Among the disadvantages are:

The walls under the panels remain hollow after fastening; if something needs to be hung, it is important to use special dowels.
Instability to external mechanical stress and dampness.
The material is highly flammable and burns.
MDF panels do not form a smooth, continuous surface; depressions are always noticeable at the joints.
The material is more suitable for interior decoration of corridors, storage rooms, loggias.

Preparatory work

Since MDF panels can be attached to uneven surfaces, no special preparation of the walls is required, however, due to their instability to moisture, it is better to carry out work in a dry room in sunny weather.

From preparatory work The following stages can be distinguished:

Coating the wall surface with a primer, special solution to protect wood or with an antiseptic.
Lathing arrangement for fastening panels (if the adhesive installation method is not used). The frame can be attached directly to the walls, but this will not be the most successful option, since it will follow all the irregularities of the wall. It is better to make an independent frame, the elements of which will be located on top of the insulation. The frame comes in two types: metal and wood.
- Metal frame It is made from a guide profile, with the help of which plasterboard is installed, measuring approximately 50x50 mm. The profiles are attached vertically to the floor using dowels at a distance of approximately 60 cm; it is important to check before installation correct location elements using building level. The bottom bar should be placed at a distance of 3-5 cm from the floor, and the top bar at a distance of 2-3 cm from the ceiling. Between vertical elements attach vertical ones. All that remains is to securely fasten all the elements using corners, which can be easily made from the profile itself. You can use a cutter, a tool that helps connect elements together.
- Wooden frame made from elements of the same size, approximately 50x50. The installation technology is the same as in the previous version, the difference is that the wooden blocks are fastened together using self-tapping screws or furniture corners.
Insulation of walls. The cells of the frame can be filled with a layer of insulation; how to do this correctly will be described below.

Required Tools

In addition to the standard set of tools that can be found in every home, for installation of MDF panels you need to prepare:

A tape measure and a pencil, they will be needed to mark the places where the sheathing elements are attached and to indicate the required length of materials.
A plumb line that can be made from ordinary fishing line and a nut.
A building level or metal corner, with the help of which the correct arrangement of elements is checked.
Hammer, nails, construction stapler.
Dowels and screws.
Screwdriver and drill.
Cutter.
Use a hand saw or jigsaw to cut the MDF panels to the desired length.

How to attach MDF panels to the wall

The material is attached to the wall with a frame or using adhesive methods. Both of these options are equivalent. If you need to hide the unevenness of the walls, it is better to choose frame method, if you need to trim flat surface, adhesive is quite suitable.

The preparatory work for the construction of metal or wooden sheathing has already been done; you can start installing the MDF panels themselves. It doesn’t matter which corner of the room you start work from.

The first MDF panel is installed in the corner so that its tenon is located 2-3 mm from the adjacent wall.
The second one is installed on the adjacent wall in the same way, so that its tenon is also directed into the corner.
Holding the panels with your hands, you need to install a universal corner between them.
We secure them using special clamps - clamps. They are fixed to the edge of the panel and then nailed to a metal or wooden frame. The clamps are made in such a way that they do not interfere with inserting the next element into the groove.
The upper and lower parts are screwed on with self-tapping screws at the top and bottom. After completion of the work, their heads will not be visible, since they will be covered with ceiling and floor plinths.
The next panel is inserted with a tenon into the groove previously installed in the manner described above. Direct joints should be covered with special slats.
When all work on installing the panels is completed, the baseboards and platband are fixed using ordinary construction glue.

Wall insulation

Experts advise insulating walls, since under the influence of moisture the structure of the material can change, which will not have a very good effect on appearance walls The sheathing cells are filled with insulation before the direct installation of the MDF panels.

Most often, two materials are used for this purpose:

It retains heat well and prevents noise penetration. The foam sheets are attached directly to the brackets for the sheathing profiles, and the gaps between the sheets are closed with regular polyurethane foam. This insulation is very convenient to work with, it is easy to cut, the material is suitable for any density.

Mineral wool. This is a soft insulation that is placed in the spaces between the frame elements, slightly tucked under them. If you decide to use this insulation, you should definitely take care of treating the walls with an antifungal agent.

Installing panels with glue

It is important to take into account the fact that MDF panels can only be glued to flat walls. This method is simpler compared to the frame method, as it significantly saves time.

Not every glue is suitable for this type of work; it must:

Be plastic;
Smooth out minor unevenness on the wall;
Have a thick texture;
Apply in a thin layer.

Work technology:

Before you start gluing MDF panels, the walls need to be cleaned of dirt and primer or any antibacterial compound applied. Be sure to wait until the solution dries.
You need to start the installation from the corner of the room so that minor errors are less noticeable.
Apply glue to inner surface panels pointwise, that is, in a “checkerboard pattern”, wait a little to allow the glue to absorb.
Place the canvas against the wall, press lightly and smooth it from the center to the edges.
Glue the remaining panels in the same way. They can be secured end-to-end or overlapping, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations.

To save time, glue can be applied to several canvases at once; while it dries, begin attaching the first one. When working with glue, you need to be very careful, since the result of the work depends on it.

The process of installing MDF panels is very simple if you follow the recommendations of specialists and pay attention to some nuances:

When installing the first MDF panel, be sure to use a plumb line and a building level.
The material does not bend, so closer to the corners of the walls, you just need to trim the panels, and then cover this place with special corners.
Attach the lower element of the sheathing closer to the floor in order to securely fix the baseboards later.