Fastening of wide mdf panels. Do-it-yourself installation of mdf panels on the wall is a practical and effective way to decorate a room

1637 09.10.2019 8 min.

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

How are MDF panels attached to the wall, how to properly attach

Before starting repairs, many people ask themselves the question - how to fix MDF panels to the wall? Today, there are only two ways to install this finishing material:

directly. In order for the work to be carried out correctly, it is necessary to select not only a high-quality adhesive composition, but also to prepare the surface.

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

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

if you choose the option with a crate, then it does not matter to you what state the walls are in. In other words, you do not need to plaster them, putty, etc .;
metal lathing is advisable in rooms where there is a fairly high humidity. It is also recommended to use in such premises;
this is due to the fact that the metal frame is least affected by moisture, and it also does not change its configuration under this influence;
the use of lathing is advisable even if you intend lay insulating material for finishing from mdf panels. Thanks to the lathing, you will have a lot of space between the wall and the panels themselves;

gluing panels saves space in the room, which is very important for small spaces. But here it is very important to properly prepare the walls, because it will not work to glue the panels wherever you like.

To understand all the intricacies and nuances of both methods, we will consider each of them in more detail.

Knowing how to mount mdf to a wall will help you choose the option that suits you and your space.

For more details on mounting mdf panels to the wall, see the video:

Types and manufacture of lathing

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

How to fix wooden

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

The ideal option would be a bar with a section of 3 × 3 cm. When choosing, you also need to pay attention to the state of the bar itself - it should be even, without chips and visible deformations.

Humidity is also of great importance - this indicator should not exceed 15 percent. Also, in the store you need to purchase antiseptic fire-retardant protection - this is such a special composition that allows you to protect the tree from fungus and mold. In addition, this composition reduces the risk of wood fires.

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 proceed to measurements. Using a regular tape measure, we measure the width and length of the walls in order to then cut the bars of 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 bars 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, the sheathing elements must be horizontal and vice versa.

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

The method of fixing the bars depends on the material of the wall surface. If the walls are wooden, then the bars are attached 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 should be located strictly parallel to each other, so watch this moment.

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

A good option would be regular rock wool rolls, which can be cut into pieces of the size we need.

Now you can go directly to the fastening of the panels to the crate. There are several ways how to fix MDF sheet panels to the wall. The first way is fastening with clamps, which look like a brace.

Can also be fastened using 3x20mm self-tapping screws and finishing nails with a small head. The choice of this or that option is a purely individual matter, because each person has their own preferences and skills. At the end of the work, the corners are mounted on the outer and inner corners.

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

Metal fasteners

Now let's consider an option using a lathing made of metal elements.

Begin from the attachment of the wall profile. We mark a line around the perimeter, after which we attach the elements to the surfaces. They are also attached to dowels or self-tapping screws - it all depends on the material of the wall surface. Next, we mark the lines along which the fastening of the profile elements will be carried out.

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

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

For these purposes the level is also used. Installation of mdf panels to a metal profile is best done with clamps.

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

Putty is necessary for finishing work. you will learn how to dilute the putty.

To create concrete and cement mixtures, crushed stone of various fractions is used. By going to get acquainted with the weight of crushed stone.

We connect them to the profile using small self-tapping screws. It's good if you have a magnetic screwdriver in stock, which will allow you to do all the work much faster. The final step will be to attach the outer and inner corners to the MDF panels. As in the first case, we glue them on liquid nails.

Bonding sheet panels

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

This option is possible if the surface of the walls is perfectly flat and their finishing is reliable enough.

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 will probably cope on your own if you follow the following recommendations and procedure.

First, we study the state of the wall. If any areas have cracks then you need them close up with plaster.

In general, the preparation of the wall takes almost more time and effort than the installation of panels on the surface itself. After leveling the wall, move on to the primer.

We use a composition with deep penetration, which will improve the adhesion of the adhesive to the wall surface. For work, we use a regular roller, after which we cover all the walls with a primer. You also need to measure all the walls. This is necessary in order to be able to cut the MDF of the desired parameters.

The cutting process itself can be carried out manually using a hacksaw for metal, but it is best to use a jigsaw.

On the reverse side, we apply an adhesive composition. Remember that the panel must firmly adhere to the surface, therefore, for the best effect, we apply glue points to the wall itself along the perimeter.

The gluing of the panels is quite simple. We bring the element to the wall, after which we press it for 10-15 seconds. Thus, work is carried out along the entire perimeter of the wall.

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

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

I would also like to dwell on how fix the plinth to the wall. Many people do not think too much about this, attaching them to ordinary liquid nails. But this is not the best option, in our opinion. Better stick them to the wall on special staples resembling hooks.

Their width is 10 cm, and you need to attach them to the wall at a distance of 50 cm from each other. The method of fastening also depends on the material of the wall, therefore, either self-tapping screws or dowels are used.

We take the skirting boards, and then tightly attach them to these corners. The joints are masked with corners, and the cuts are closed with plugs. The skirting boards can be painted in the future, or they can be varnished.

Wall panel fixing tools

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 need a hacksaw with fine teeth for cutting wood, and also hacksaw for metal work. Moreover, if we plan to make a crate of wood, then we need a hacksaw not only with small, but also with large teeth;

building level and an ordinary measuring tape. All of these items are required for measurement, so they must be in stock 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 bars;

a gun for applying glue. With this device, it is much easier and faster to apply the adhesive to mdf panels and wall surfaces.

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

There are a lot of videos on the Internet devoted to the process of attaching panels to walls in various ways. It is enough to type the request - "MDF panels for walls, how to fix a video", after which you will be offered many different options for carrying out this work.

Conclusion

Fastening mdf panels to the wall is a fairly simple process that 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 tricks that we have presented to you in this article, then you will achieve a 100% positive result. Despite the simplicity of work, MDF panels look very aesthetically pleasing in any room, so their use is fully justified.

Decorating the walls with natural materials, such as solid wood panels, lends nobility and style to the interior, but it is expensive and impractical. An excellent solution in this case is the choice of a material that combines the decorative appearance of natural wood and the durability and strength of artificial binders. MDF panels have gained well-deserved popularity among builders, they are used to decorate both living rooms and commercial and public premises. They are easy to attach to the wall and look neat and stylish.

Advantages and disadvantages of MDF panels for wall decoration

MDF is obtained from wood fibers processed at high pressure and temperature, pressed into a board.

Binders and useful additives give MDF special properties and advantages that are indispensable for wall cladding:

Disadvantages of the material:

low elasticity;
in conditions of high humidity, dampness penetrates through the untreated ends of the slab, which deforms and destroys the structure of MDF;
fire hazard.

How to properly fix MDF to the wall

Several types of MDF are produced, which are suitable for use in various operating conditions:

solid-pressed products have a smooth front surface, medium density, furniture is made from these sheets;
laminated panels are covered with a protective film on top, they are distinguished by increased strength and decorative effects;
moisture resistant boards are more expensive than conventional boards, they are denser and can be used in wet rooms: bathrooms and kitchens.

After evaluating the features of each type, you can make the best choice to create a durable finishing coating. Before starting the repair, you need to make a drawing of the room with the layout of the sheets and calculate the consumption of materials and fasteners.

To make it easier to work, make a drawing of the room and calculate the amount of consumables

For a correct calculation, it is necessary to subtract the area of window and door openings from the total area of the walls. To the result obtained, add 10% for possible trims.

There are several ways of attaching MDF panels to the wall, each of them has its own technological features, having studied which you can choose the most suitable option.

Fastening to a wooden crate

This method has many advantages:

the frame hides defects and differences in the height of the base, does not require careful preparation of the walls;
a space is formed for laying communications and wiring;
insulation can be placed under the panels;
it simplifies the replacement of an individual MDF board.

There are also disadvantages:

the space of the room decreases, which is especially important for small rooms;
fixing hinged decorative elements and furniture will require long anchors and embedded elements.

The surface under the finish in damp rooms can accumulate condensation and become a favorable environment for the development of harmful mold and mildew. To solve this problem, it is necessary to treat the wall surface with a fungicidal antifungal impregnation, and to reduce the possibility of fire - with a fire retardant. For the lathing, a bar of 30x30 mm is suitable.

MDF panels - modern and environmentally friendly material

In addition to the MDF panels themselves, for work you will need the following list of tools and materials:

level, plumb line, ruler and pencil;
stepladder, wooden lathing bars;
drill, puncher, screwdriver;
dowels or screws, you can use clamps, nails with a reduced head;
fire retardant and fungicidal impregnation;
liquid nails for fixing corner trim elements;
brush, putty knife, sticks, large-toothed hacksaw or saw.

Preparatory work:

The frame is ready, now you can mount MDF panels:

For thin slabs, you can make a secure attachment to the battens with glue. Liquid nails are perfect for this purpose.

For metal profiles

This method uses a special aluminum or galvanized metal profile. Such a frame is more expensive, but is devoid of wood drawbacks and will last much longer. This method is optimal for finishing rooms with high humidity.

The following materials and tools should be prepared:

guiding and supporting profile strips, suspensions, small self-tapping screws "seeds" for connecting the profiles to each other;
screwdriver and self-tapping screws, hammer drill and dowels;
ruler and level, marker;
stairs, skirting boards and corners;
chisel perforator nozzle;
kleimers, one box of 100 is enough;
plaster and putty.

Preparation of the base:

This method does not require leveling or thoroughly preparing the wall, it is enough to remove the old tiles or wallpaper and walk with a fire-retardant composition so that mold and fungus do not grow under conditions of increased dampness under the finish.
Mark the wall, place the planks in 45-50 cm increments. Mark the lines on the floor, walls and ceiling. Before installation, you can stick foil-coated foam foam for thermal insulation.
Correctly installed crate will allow it to lick for a long time, and MDF panels will not warp over time
Attach straight hangers, which are subsequently bent to strengthen the frame structure and expose the finishing plane at the required distance from the main wall.
Fix the hangings on the wall
Fix the guide strips to the ceiling, floor and side walls with dowels. Insert the supporting main strips into the suspensions and guides, fasten the structure with small self-tapping screws, called "seeds" by the craftsmen. It is convenient to use a screwdriver with a magnetic attachment for this work. Fastening is carried out in increments of 15-25 cm.
Fix the guides to the floor, ceiling, walls
Check the level of the correct position of the strips, lay the necessary communications. Put the wiring into the corrugated pipe and fill the gaps with insulation, bend the protruding edges of the suspensions outward.
Fill the gaps between the profiles with insulation

Stages of installation of MDF panels:

Without frame

If the base is flat and free from defects, then fastening can be carried out without installing the frame.

This method has its advantages:

work time is significantly reduced;
precious centimeters of the room do not decrease, the wall sticks out by only 10 mm.

For fastening you will need:

adhesive liquid nails, assembly gun;
hacksaw with a fine tooth, brush;
stepladder for work at height;
universal corners made of fiberboard, plinth, insulation;
fire-retardant impregnation, soil.

Stages of preparatory work:

After the walls are completely dry, we proceed to the installation of MDF boards:

Video: installation of MDF panels on the wall

Competent installation of MDF panels is not complicated at all, they do not require special care, and the walls look like they are finished with natural exotic wood or leather, granite. Practical and inexpensive cladding will give the interior a gloss and a neat fresh look.

Fastening MDF panels to the wall is a process that is not difficult if you know all the features of the technology. I will tell you how to cope with the work with a minimum investment of time and money, both options have been repeatedly tested by me in practice, which makes it possible to assert with confidence that any developer is capable of fixing MDF. It is important to follow all the recommendations below, and have a set of necessary tools and accessories on hand.

Panel mounting methods

Let's analyze what are the ways of attaching MDF panels to the wall, there are only two of them:

Sheathing device, which can be both wooden and metal, below we will analyze both options;
Bonding panels- it is important to choose a high-quality composition and properly prepare the base.

If you do not know which option to choose, then you need to familiarize yourself with the advantages of each of the solutions:

When constructing the lathing, the condition of the walls and their plane do not matter, because you will be constructing, which will set the position of the future surface;
For damp rooms, a frame made of a metal profile is more suitable, since it does not change its parameters with changes in humidity and is much more slowly damaged by water;
If it is necessary to lay insulation under the finish, then the crate will be an ideal design option, it is very convenient to put any heat-insulating material under it;

Bonding is ideal for places where you want to save as much space as possible. The elements are glued directly to the wall, and this finish does not reduce the usable area. In this case, the condition of the surface is of great importance - it is impossible to glue the panels anywhere.

Method number 1 - the construction of the lathing

Let's figure out how to fix MDF panels to the wall using a special frame, which is made either from wood or from a profile. Let's start by looking at a more budgetary and affordable option using a block of wood.

The workflow looks like this:

First of all, you need to buy a bar from which the crate will be built, most often a pine version with a section of at least 30x30 mm is used, since the structure must be strong. When choosing a specific option, pay attention to such indicators as humidity (it should not be higher than 15%) and geometric parameters - the elements should be even, deformations should not exceed a few millimeters per linear meter;
Then you need to process the wood with a fire retardant composition. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to the material by mold and wood borers, as well as to increase the resistance of the bar to fire. The work is done with a simple brush, all the features of the process will be prompted by the instructions, which are mandatory on the packaging;

Next, you need to take measurements using a tape measure, the length of the bars should be a few millimeters less than the distance between the walls or from floor to ceiling, otherwise you will have to squeeze in the elements. It is important not to confuse anything so as not to spoil the material, and this often happens if measurements are inattentive;

Important!
If the MDF panels will be located horizontally, then the crate should be vertical.
And vice versa - for the vertical arrangement of the panels, you need to make a horizontal frame.
You must know in advance how the finishing will be done.

The dimensions are carefully marked on the block, after which the elements are cut into pieces of the required length. When cutting, pay special attention to the correct location of the hacksaw, it should be located perpendicular to the bar, often inexperienced craftsmen cut the material at random and all ends are crooked;

The fixing of the bars is done either using quick-assembly dowels (when you have a concrete or brick base), or using self-tapping screws (if you have wood walls). When working, constantly monitor the position of the elements so that the plane is flat. It is best to check both each individual bar and several already fixed racks, and do this in different positions of the level in order to definitely prevent flaws;

If you decide to additionally insulate the surface, then this should be done after the construction of the frame. For work, it is best to use rolled mineral wool, which is easy to cut and with which it is very convenient to work, just fill the space with it so that it stands tightly, after which you can proceed to the next stage of work;

The panels can be fastened in three ways, and the first of them is the use of clamps, this is the name of a special fastener, which is a bracket. The second option is thin self-tapping screws 3x20 mm, which are twisted into a groove or a thorn, and the third is thin finishing nails with a reduced head. Choose the solution that is more convenient for you personally, it is easiest for me to use carnations, work with them goes much faster;

The inner and outer corners and connecting strips, if any, are attached last. The easiest way is to glue these elements, even small finishing studs will be visible, and with the help of glue, you can achieve the perfect appearance.

As for the option with a metal frame, it is suitable for rooms with fluctuations in humidity, since the galvanized profile perfectly tolerates adverse effects and does not deform over time.

Let's figure out how to fix MDF wall panels to a structure made of metal profiles:

To get started, you need to purchase the required amount of the main and wall profile. Wall elements are placed around the perimeter and define the plane of the future surface, and the main ones bear the load and hold the entire structure;
Work begins with fixing the wall profile, for this a line is drawn around the perimeter and the elements are fastened to the walls, floor and ceiling. For work, either dowels or self-tapping screws are used, it all depends on the bases on which the installation is carried out;

Then the lines are marked along which the main profile will be located, it should stand at a distance of 40-50 cm. Direct suspensions are attached along the lines, which will help level the surface, as well as strengthen it and make it resistant to loads. With the help of these elements, the alignment process will take place very quickly and very efficiently;

Further, the main profiles are inserted into the resulting structure, the direction of the lathing depends on how the final coating will be located, we discussed this aspect above. The profiles are fastened to each other using small self-tapping screws, which are called bugs or seeds among builders;
The hangers are bent to the profile, after which, using the level, the correct position is determined in which the elements are fastened. The excess ends are simply bent outward so as not to interfere with further work, it makes no sense to cut off all the ends, and this process takes too much time;

Let's figure out how to fix MDF wall panels to a metal frame. For work, kleimers are used, which are screwed to the profile using all the same seeds - small self-tapping screws. The work is best done using a screwdriver with a magnetic attachment, so you will lose much less fasteners;

The last step is the same as in the case of a wooden frame: you need to glue all the decorative elements and put the baseboards.

Method number 2 - gluing panels

Fastening MDF panels to a wall without lathing will be an excellent option where the walls are even, and the finish on them is reliable, because you have to glue the elements, and if the base is weak, then they can simply fall off after a certain period of time.

Let's figure out how the work is done with our own hands, there is nothing complicated in the process, the main thing is to follow a few simple recommendations and use only high-quality materials.

The sequence of operations is as follows:

First you need to check the base for damage and unreliable areas, if any, then they need to be repaired. All problems must be eliminated in advance, the better the plane is prepared and the fewer flaws on it, the more attractive the final result will be. Sometimes you have to spend more time leveling the base than the main work;
Then the surface is treated with a deep penetration primer. This is necessary in order to strengthen the base and improve the adhesion of the adhesive to the surface. The composition is applied with a roller or with a brush, it is important to cover the entire wall evenly, but you should not allow smudges either;

Next, the material is prepared - MDF panels, if necessary, the elements are cut into pieces of the desired size, cutting is done using a hacksaw for metal or an electric jigsaw, it is important to accurately measure and carefully cut the plates;
On the reverse side, an adhesive composition is applied, you can make points on the surface, you can apply a rim around the perimeter and points in the middle, the main thing is that there are many places for gluing;

The element is gently pressed against the wall and fixed in this position for a few seconds. Work continues until the entire surface is covered;
The corners and connecting strips are glued last, for this, the same composition is used as for the main coating. Most often, liquid nails are used - their price is affordable, and the quality meets the highest standards.

Important!
Sometimes a combined method is used, when MDF panels are glued to a wooden crate.
This option is good when you need to insulate the surface or in cases where you may later need to dismantle the coating.

What you need to work

Naturally, you will need a certain set of tools, I will list what should be at hand without fail:

Hacksaws	If you glue the panels, then you only need a hacksaw with a fine tooth, and the metal option is also suitable. But if you will make a frame of wood, then you need another hacksaw with a larger size of teeth.
Measuring tool	First of all, you need to have on hand a tape measure, a building level and a pencil for marking. In order for the ends to be perfectly flat, you need to additionally purchase a square, which will simplify the work and allow you to draw corners
Screwdriver and hammer drill	If you use self-tapping screws, then you cannot do without this power tool. And to fix the dowels, a more powerful option is needed - a hammer drill with a drill of the required diameter
Glue gun	It is needed if you will glue elements. The device costs a little, but it is much more convenient to work with it.

If you do not have the same punch or screwdriver, then there is no point in purchasing them for a couple of hours of work. Borrow a tool from a friend or rent it, it will be much cheaper.

It is best to cut corners from MDF not with a hacksaw, but with a sharp construction knife, so the result will be much better, and the ends are much neater and smoother, the main thing is that the blade is sharp and hard and does not bend when pressed.

Output

In my subjective opinion, the work on fixing MDF is one of the simplest and easiest, you just need to do it once, in order to subsequently quickly and efficiently cover both walls and ceilings. The video in this article will give you additional information on the topic, as well as clearly show some important points of the workflow. If you still have questions, then ask them in the comments below the review.

How to fix MDF panels to the wall, and on what basis - the decision must be made taking into account the peculiarities of the wall geometry, the size of the room, the availability of communications and constant heating. Despite the immense popularity, MDF wall plates are quite picky about the operating conditions, so you should not fix it in the first way that comes to hand, so as not to re-lay the finish a second time.

Dimensions of MDF - panels

Often, consultants of trading companies present MDF boards as a lightweight version of chipboard panels, especially if you decipher the English abbreviation. Accordingly, it is recommended to fix them in the same way as in the case of using chipboard. In fact, MDF panels in structure and production method differ significantly from particle board, which allows the material to be fastened at a lower cost and at a higher speed.

There are only three main differences:

Thin MDF boards are made from recycled cellulose fiber, which is practically free of polysaccharides - the main food for bacteria, fungi and rodents. Chipboard uses ordinary shavings filled with phenol-formaldehyde resin, so it is fixed with special dowels;
Plates are made by pressing wood fiber pulp with the addition of hydrogen peroxide. At a temperature of 250 ° C, lignin and part of the cellulose are welded with the remains of caramelized polysaccharides into a dense fiber mass. In thick slabs, the MDF core is additionally impregnated with polymer resin, which makes it possible to fasten without the risk of material delamination;
The flexural strength of the panel is only slightly inferior to plywood with greater ductility and resistance to moisture. Most brands of MDF can be wall-mounted even in rooms with low ventilation levels.

The difference, at first glance, is insignificant, but it is the strength and elasticity of the cellulose-fiber base of the MDF panel that makes it possible to fasten the cladding plates using end locks.

Even with a strong temperature difference, the MDF panel shows a level of expansion much less than that of plastic or ordinary wooden lining, so the material can be fastened with smaller gaps, which is especially important for plates of medium and large thickness.

What are the most popular sizes

For wall cladding, three size groups are used:

Thin slabs, size group 5-9 mm thick, 153, 198, 200.325 and 2070 mm wide;
Medium MDF panels, 10-18 mm thick, 2070 mm wide;
Oversized slabs, thickness 19-38 mm, width 2070 mm.

There are no restrictions on the outer dimensions, and the maximum thickness of the slabs is limited by pressing capabilities up to 40 mm. Also available are two-layer MDF panels with a maximum thickness of up to 60 mm, used for the manufacture of reusable formwork and roof sheathing. But the quality of the outer surface of such slabs is rather low, so they are not used for wall decoration.

Installation of MDF panels

Pressed cellulose fibers retain heat and absorb noise much better than plastic or wood. In addition, the MDF panel has a certain anisotropy of properties, it can be cut and processed in almost any order. Fastening the panels is easy and even a novice cladder can do it.

For household purposes, panels can be fixed in three ways:

Place the slabs on glue;
Mount the cladding on a wooden or metal frame;
Installation of MDF panels using the suspension method.

The latter case is used as an exceptional way of cladding walls in a house from a bar or rounded log. We have to fix the MDF slabs on a suspended ceiling profile with a small gap between the floor and the lower edge of the slab. The cladding is suspended on the profile, and as the walls shrink, the MDF sags along with the timber material.

It is clear that for a wooden house it will be more preferable to use narrow slabs, 190-200 mm wide, while it is better to fix MDF in the vertical direction. If it is not known for sure about the planned amount of wall shrinkage, then the decorative finish is best fixed with a gap increased by 2-3 cm. Firstly, this ensures that in case of excessive shrinkage, the floor will not tear off the slabs from the walls, and secondly, the cracks will provide a normal level of ventilation and airflow in the space between the panels and the wall.

Mounting on a metal frame

The installation of panels on a supporting frame made of galvanized profiles is recognized by experts as the most rational and reliable way of fixing any cellulose-fiber materials. Even heavy slabs with a density of up to 1.5-1.8 g / cm 3 can be attached to the metal frame without any problems. The metal will not lead from condensation or blocking of the walls as a result of pipe breaks, water leakage in an apartment on the floor above or a break in the roof.

The assembly of the frame begins with the installation of the starter profile and side strips. MDF panels are lightweight, so it is enough to install a number of vertical profiles No. 50 with a step of 40-50 cm. The use of a galvanized U-profile makes it possible to fix MDF on the walls of a room about two to three times faster than in any other way.

Two or three drops of silicone applied to the profile will even out the load on the wall and prevent the cladding from flapping in strong winds, if there is a ventilation gap behind the decorative MDF lamellas.

Installation on a wooden frame

The easiest way is to fix MDF panels on a wooden frame. There are two options for wall cladding using cellulose fiber panels. It all depends on the size of the room and the condition of the walls.

If the slight reduction in space due to the lathing is not critical, the timber frame is sewn onto the walls using metal hanger holders. For small and small rooms, most often it is necessary to partially cut and knock down a layer of plaster in order to level the surface along a vertical plumb line, to make it as even as possible.

In any case, the starting strip is initially laid on the floor and under the ceiling. Using a long building level on the wall, mark the installation points of the suspensions and determine the minimum required overhang of the side lobes of the fasteners.

In the event that it is planned to install horizontal MDF lamellas, the supporting strips are fixed vertically. For the installation of full-size panels over 200 mm wide, the walls are sewn up in both directions. Each wooden lathing strip is aligned with the starting guides and fixed with the suspension petals using self-tapping screws and a screwdriver.

For relatively flat and dry brick, concrete or block walls, the batten can be attached directly to the wall using dowels. In this case, work is added, since each bar has to be adjusted for a long time before fastening with washers in order to maintain a single vertical plane. But on the other hand, you can save 3-4 cm of internal space, which is very useful, for example, when decorating the walls of a small bathroom or corridor.

Installation on glue

The use of a batten or support frame always eats up an additional 3-7 cm of space on each wall. The use of a frame system is considered a good solution, but it is not at all necessary to fence in the frame jungle if the walls of the room for the future MDF cladding are flat, without serious defects and deviations from the vertical.

In this case, it is enough to clean the walls, prime them with acrylic primer and apply a thin layer of insulating putty. The lime layer will help to further level the walls and improve the adherence of the MDF boards to the supporting surface.

Installation of panels on walls using glue is carried out in two versions:

Each MDF is glued to the wall with one lamella, from ceiling to floor, with fixation along the end edge using self-tapping screws and plastic plugs;
The material is laid on the wall in horizontal stripes from corner to corner after assembly and gluing of corner and edge pieces.

If the lamellas are glued directly to the wall, then the end joints are not glued and are not treated with sealing materials. Most often, with the help of glue, rather large panels, 40-60 cm wide, are laid on the walls.This method is more profitable from a technological point of view, since the load from the rather large weight of the MDF panel is distributed not over several clamps or staples, but over the entire surface of the plate and walls. What does it do? Greater reliability if the upper row of MDF lamellas breaks, the middle and lower rows will hold the entire structure.

Before fixing the mdf panels to the wall, cover the back side with small portions of glue. These can be dots, spirals, short stripes. The main thing is that the adhesive material is evenly distributed over the wall surface.

The best glue to use is automotive sealant, polyurethane adhesives, and home-made adhesives based on a mixture of acetone and foam. Acrylic and polyvinyl acetate adhesives hold MDF panels rather weakly.

For your information! The MDF sticker on the sealant provides the ability to cut and remove the panel from the wall if necessary without damaging the surface. Harder alkyd, polystyrene and acrylic adhesives can tear off some of the back surface.

Fastening MDF panels to the wall

The process of installing cellulose fiber panels is relatively simple and straightforward even for a beginner. If the horizontal laying method is used, then the bottom panel or lamella is installed first, which directly rests on the starting plate of the frame. It must be laid on glue, aligned to the building level and fixed with a stapler or self-tapping screw.

Before laying the next panel on the wall, it is necessary to install the corner or edge cladding elements, fix them on the wall, and only then proceed with the installation of the following MDF parts.

How to attach mdf panels to a bar or profile is selected in each case individually, based on the conditions of the fastener and the size of the material. Relatively thin, 6-9 mm lamellas are snapped in with groove-thorn locks, after which the free end is sewn to the timber with self-tapping brackets. If it is supposed to be able to periodically remove the MDF cladding from the wall for revising communications or wiring laid behind the decorative trim, then the panels are placed on clamps.

Thick slabs are mounted directly on the walls using glue and dowels, joints are sealed with acrylic putty and then wallpaper or PVC foil is glued.

A difficult option, how to mount MDF on walls with insulation

MDF boards are much easier and more convenient to handle than heavy drywall, plywood or plastic, while the strength of the panels is sufficient to build two or even three-layer cladding options from fiber composite with insulation as an intermediate layer.

For example, cold external walls made of profile, siding or concrete blocks are hemmed from the inside with HDF-class MDF plates, with a density of 800-1800 kg / m 3. The thickness of the slabs is 25-40 mm. The laid panels are sewn at the joints with oblique self-tapping screws and stapling staples, the seam itself is rubbed with polymer mastic.

The material is treated with impregnation, which provides good vapor transmission with high resistance to surface condensation. Plates are fixed to external walls "cold" - with the help of steel dowels and carpentry screws. On the inside of the slab sheathing, wooden or slats cut from the slabs are sewn.

A vapor membrane is pulled over the laid thermal insulation and clogged with horizontal slats with a section of 20x20 mm. The last step is to sew lightweight decorative MDF panels of the LDF class with the texture of wood, natural stone or veneered on the lathing.

Due to the low density LDF, 200-600 kg / m 3, MDF panels perfectly let steam through, which is removed through the ventilation gap and the ceiling ventilation joint. In this way, walls are sheathed in summer kitchens, balconies, verandas, any rooms with frame-type walls.

Features of finishing MDF - panels

Most professional finishers prefer to work with MDF, since there is no dust and dirt, as in the case of drywall, installation is faster and there are much fewer problems.

Assembly and installation of MDF on walls is in many ways similar to laying laminate floors, with the only difference that there are more opportunities for choosing schemes for decorating a room and a much more complex arrangement of corner and slope wall sectors.

Slopes

The scheme for arranging door or window slopes is no different from plasterboard options. If the lamellas were laid vertically on the walls, then to design a window or door opening, it is enough to cut a panel of the required height and width and stick it on the slope plane with mounting foam or sealant.

If the walls in the protection room are horizontal panels, then the slopes will have to be recruited from sections on self-tapping screws and plastic plugs.

Corners and slots

There are always gaps and gaps between the installed additional elements and the main part of the cladding. They have to be removed with special decorative corner strips and decorative skirting boards.

All auxiliary decor is glued on "Titanium" or "Mounting moment for MDF", a small amount of glue is applied to the edge along the gap, after which a corner strip is installed on the joint. To prevent the decor from moving away, the corner is temporarily fixed with tape.

Sockets and switches

Every room has at least a couple of outlets and one switch. In order not to dismantle them during the installation of MDF, proceed as follows: measure the coordinates of the location of the socket on the wall, then cut a hole of the appropriate shape and size with a circular drill or jigsaw. When installing the MDF panel, the size and position of the hole is specified and cut with a sharp knife.

It remains to install the panel, fix it on the wall, and close the remaining gap with a decorative frame.

Conclusion

The details of the process, how to fix the MDF panels to the wall, must be thought over and planned in advance, before the start of work on the decorative finishing of the room. The process itself is not particularly difficult, but in any room there are many problem areas where the method of fastening has to be almost invented on our own. In this case, it is better to draw the details and the method of fixing on the diagram, so that you do not have to rack your brains and waste time in the process.

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

What are mdf panels

This finishing material is made of medium density fiberboard by hot pressing of wood fibers. As a result of pressure and high temperature, the lignin, of which the wood is composed, becomes elastic, its fibers adhere to each other. In the production of the material, no toxic components are used, for example, phenol or resins, so mdf panels are absolutely safe and environmentally friendly.

There are three types of external cladding for facing slabs:

A laminated film that repeats the surface of marble, wood or other natural materials.
Thin veneer made of fine wood.
Embossed varnish coating.

When buying mdf panels, you should pay attention to their thickness, moisture resistance and strength.

Advantages and disadvantages

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

The obvious benefits include:

Simplicity and ease of installation. They can be attached to a frame that is easy to manufacture, horizontally or vertically, without the need to first apply a layer of plaster.
Good sound insulation.
Attractive appearance, wide range of colors.
Easy to clean, to keep the walls tidy, 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 moisture.
The material is highly flammable and burns.
MDF panels do not form an even continuous surface; grooves are always noticeable at the joints.
The material is more suitable for interior decoration of corridors, storerooms, loggias.

Preparatory work

Since mdf panels can be fixed to uneven surfaces, special preparation of the walls is not required, however, due to their instability to moisture, work is best carried out in a dry room in sunny weather.

The following stages can be distinguished from the preparatory work:

Coating the wall surface with a primer, a special solution for wood preservation or an antiseptic.
Sheathing device for fixing panels (if the glue method of installation is not used). The frame can be attached directly to the walls, but this will not be the best option, since it will repeat all the unevenness 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 is of two types: metal and wood.
- Metal carcass It is made of a guide profile, with the help of which the plasterboard is installed, with a size of about 50x50 mm. The profiles are vertically fixed to the floor with dowels at a distance of about 60 cm; before installation, it is important to check the correct position of the elements using a building level. The lower bar should be placed at a distance of 3-5 cm from the floor, and the upper one at a distance of 2-3 cm from the ceiling. Vertical elements are attached between the vertical elements. It remains only to securely fix all the elements with the help of corners, which are easy to make from the profile itself. You can use a cutter, a tool that helps you connect elements together.
- Wooden frame made of elements of the same size, approximately 50x50. The installation technology is the same as in the previous version, the difference is that wooden bars are fastened together using self-tapping screws or furniture corners.
Wall insulation. The cells of the frame can be filled with a layer of insulation, how to do it correctly will be described below.

Required tools

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

A tape measure and a pencil, they will be needed to mark the attachment points of the crate elements and indicate the required length of materials.
A plumb line that can be made from a regular line and a nut.
Building level or metal corner, with the help of which the correct arrangement of the elements is checked.
Hammer, nails, construction stapler.
Dowels and screws.
Screwdriver and drill.
Cutter.
A hand saw or jigsaw to cut the MDF panels to the desired length.

How to fix mdf panels to the wall

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

Preparatory work for the construction of metal or wooden lathing has already been done, you can start installing the mdf panels themselves. From what corner of the room to start work, it does not matter.

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

Wall insulation

Experts advise making wall insulation, because under the influence of moisture, the structure of the material can change, which is not very good for the appearance of the walls. The lathing cells are filled with insulation before the direct installation of 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 lathing profiles, and the gaps between the sheets are closed with ordinary foam. It is very convenient to work with this insulation, it is easy to cut, the material is suitable for any density.

Mineral wool. This is a soft insulation, which is placed in the gaps between the frame elements, slightly tucking under them. If you decide to use this insulation, you should definitely take care of treating the walls with an anti-fungal agent.

Installation of panels on glue

It is important to take into account the fact that mdf panels can only be glued onto flat walls. This method is simpler in comparison with wireframe, as it saves time.

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

Be plastic;
Smooth out minor irregularities on the wall;
Have a thick texture;
Lay down in a thin layer.

Work technology:

Before you start gluing mdf panels, you need to clean the walls of dirt and apply a primer or any antibacterial compound. Be sure to wait until the solution is dry.
You need to start the installation from the corner of the room so that minor errors are less noticeable.
Apply glue to the inner surface of the panel pointwise, that is, in a "checkerboard pattern", wait a little to allow the glue to absorb.
Place the canvas against the wall, press down slightly and smooth from the center to the edges.
Glue the rest of the panels in the same way. They can be fastened end-to-end or overlapped, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations.

In order to save time, the glue can be immediately applied to several canvases, while it dries, start 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 of the nuances:

When installing the first mdf panel, be sure to use a plumb line and a building level.
The material does not bend, therefore, closer to the corners of the walls, the panels just need to be trimmed, and then close this place with special corners.
Fasten the lower batten element closer to the floor in order to securely fix the skirting boards later.