Wall panels can enhance many different areas, from fireplace surrounds to whole accent walls, and faux stone and brick wall panels have become a popular way to revamp a home.
Both options are light and affordable alternatives to real brick and stone, making them all the rage in home décor trends. But if you’re considering using faux stone or brick wall panels in your next home decor project, you may be wondering about the logistics of storing, preparing, and using faux brick or stone.
To help you plan, care for, and carry out your project, we’re here to discuss some of the things you may want to know about storing your stone and brick wall panels to keep them in tip-top shape.
What Are Brick & Stone Wall Panels Made Of?
Faux brick and stone wall panels are constructed of high-density polyurethane. When the panels are made, polyurethane foam is injected into a closed mold. The foam expands within the mold, making an extremely dense and strong, yet light weight material.
How Do Faux Brick & Stone Wall Panels Differ From The Real Thing?
As mentioned above, our faux wall panels are made of high-density polyurethane. In contrast to real brick and stone, they are much lighter, easier to work with, and significantly less expensive.
Faux stone and brick wall panels come in an array of options and finishes, allowing you to customize the exact look you want. Both can be cut and manipulated with tools you probably already have at home. Instead of needing an expensive and specialized stone saw, you can use a standard hand saw. The installation involves just a drill, a saw, a level, a tape measure, screws, and some construction adhesive.
Storing Brick Wall Panels & Stone Wall Panels
While the high-density polyurethane used to construct faux brick and stone wall panels is extremely durable, it can expand or contract depending on the temperature at which it is stored. The degree to which they expand and contract is much less than a piece of wood — half as much, to be exact!
Regardless, if you choose to store your materials outside, they may expand or contract depending on the exterior temperature. Be conscious of this when you are preparing to install.
Faux wall panels are highly weather-resistant, but you still need to make sure they are stored properly. Exposure to the elements can cause UV degradation. Luckily, you don’t need to worry too much about this because all of AZ Faux Beams’ wall panels are crafted with paint containing a UV inhibitor.
Be sure that wherever your panels are stored, they are not placed in a way that will cause bends or warping. Keep them stored flat, with no heavy objects on top.
Installing Faux Brick & Stone Wall Panels After Storage
If your panels get wet, simply wipe them off and move them to a dry place prior to installation. If your panels have been left in the heat, allow them to acclimate to room temperature for at least 24 hours before installation. If they have been left in a cool place, they are good to go.
Once the panels have acclimated and you’re ready to install, the process is easy. Simply measure and mark your panels on the flat side of the panel (this is the backside). Then clean the panels to remove any dust or dirt that has built up.
Once your panels are cut, you will apply construction adhesive to stick the panel to the wall or surface. Make sure the panel is level and flat against the wall! You will then use screws to fasten the panel to the wall. Be sure to insert the screws in a low-visibility place if possible. Continue applying panels to the wall in the same manner until the whole area is covered.
Designing Your Custom Project
If you’re ready to embark on a custom project using faux stone wall panels or brick wall panels, start browsing our products or design ideas for inspiration.