Views: 88 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-10-28 Origin: Site
Flexible stone panels are widely appreciated for their lightweight design, easy handling, and natural stone appearance. However, one of the most common installation issues is bulging, which can affect both the appearance and durability of the wall. Bulging often results from improper adhesive use, poor surface preparation, or uneven application pressure.
To help ensure a flawless installation, here are several professional tips to prevent bulging when installing flexible stone panels.
A stable substrate is the foundation of successful flexible stone installation.
Make sure the surface is strong, level, and free of dust, oil, or loose particles.
If the wall is uneven or rough, use cement mortar to smooth it out before applying the adhesive.
The surface must also be dry, as excess moisture can weaken the bonding strength and lead to hollow or bulged areas later.
Before applying any adhesive, it’s essential to pre-arrange and measure how the panels will be placed.
Pre-laying helps determine the optimal pattern and minimizes cutting waste.
It also allows you to identify any panels that might need trimming or adjustment in advance, ensuring a smooth installation process.
This step is particularly important for large-size flexible stone panels, where misalignment can easily cause uneven tension and bulging.
A crucial but often overlooked detail:
Before applying adhesive, slightly trim or flatten the fiberglass mesh around the panel edges.
This allows the edges to sit flush against the surface, improving overall adhesion and reducing the risk of edges lifting or bulging.
For thinner products, this step makes an even greater difference in achieving a neat, professional finish.
Partial or point adhesive application is one of the main causes of bulging.
Always use the full-spread method:
Apply adhesive evenly across the entire back surface of the panel.
Use the correct notched trowel to ensure at least 90% coverage.
Avoid leaving any hollow spots, as flexible stone materials are lightweight and can deform over time where adhesive is missing.
For best results, use a two-component epoxy resin adhesive or high-quality tile adhesive, mixed and applied according to manufacturer instructions.
For panels larger than 1200×2400 mm, or those installed at higher wall positions, use nail guns or screws to provide extra mechanical support.
Place nails evenly along the upper section (approximately every 10 cm apart).
Avoid fixing nails in the middle or bottom sections, as this may create stress points or uneven surfaces.
After installation, flexible stone panels need 7–10 days of curing time.
During this period:
Protect the wall from rain or direct water exposure.
Avoid applying pressure or pulling on the panels before the adhesive is fully cured.
If rain is expected, cover the wall with plastic film or waterproof cloth to prevent moisture infiltration.
Proper curing ensures long-term adhesion strength and prevents hidden bulging caused by premature handling.
Selecting the correct adhesive is key to preventing bulging.
Primary choice: Two-component epoxy resin adhesive — offers excellent bonding strength and durability.
Alternative: High-quality tile adhesive — easier to transport and suitable for export projects.
Avoid silicone structural glue, which may cause bulging over time, especially in thin or light panels.
Preventing bulging in flexible stone installations comes down to attention to detail and proper technique. From preparing a strong base to using full adhesive coverage and correct curing methods, every step contributes to the final quality and durability of the wall.
Following these best practices ensures that your flexible stone panels stay smooth, firm, and visually flawless for years to come.
For more professional installation advice or wholesale inquiries, contact WIFi Ceramics: sales@wificeramics.com
