Bathroom Refurbishment & Maintenance Feature
Retrofitting bathrooms with moisture- resistant wall panels presents a proactive approach
the versatility and ease of installation make panels a practical choice for addressing damp and mould concerns. For some landlords, especially in a time of increasing costs, any loss of rental
occurred during a renovation project can be financially challenging. However, wall panels offer a time- and cost-effective solution. If a bathroom already has tiles in place, wall panels can be installed directly on top of almost any sound surface whilst maintaining their watertight integrity, saving time, effort and scarce resources. Unlike tiled surfaces, newly panelled bathrooms will be ready to use in just 24 hours, and on average, fitting wall panels saves on average 15 hours of installation time compared to the equivalent area being tiled. As wall panels are so easy to fit, it eliminates snagging issues that can be both
costly and time consuming to fix. By choosing waterproof wall panels instead of traditional tiles, it eliminates the problem of water leakage due to improper tile installation and grouting in a bathroom. Tiles should also be re-sealed every year and grouting re-touched every eight years as it loses its colour and mould builds up. Tere is also the associated cost saving at the time of installation – by as much as £30 per m2. In addition to their functional benefits, wall panels also offer aesthetic
advantages, enhancing the visual appeal of bathroom spaces. With a wide range of design options available, including contemporary finishes and classic motifs, panels allow landlords to elevate the overall look and feel of their properties while simultaneously addressing practical concerns. Beyond the installation of wall panels, landlords can further mitigate damp
and mould risks by implementing effective ventilation solutions. Adequate ventilation helps regulate humidity levels and promote air circulation, reducing the likelihood of moisture accumulation and mould growth. Simple measures such as installing extractor fans or improving natural ventilation can significantly enhance bathroom airflow and minimise damp-related issues.
Interiors
Educating tenants about proper bathroom maintenance and ventilation
practices is also essential in preventing damp and mould problems. By fostering awareness and responsibility, landlords can empower tenants to take proactive steps in safeguarding their living environment and maintaining a healthy home. In conclusion, retrofitting bathrooms with moisture-resistant wall panels
is a proactive and effective strategy for controlling damp and mould in rental properties. By addressing these issues comprehensively and promoting tenant awareness, landlords can fulfil their legal obligations under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 and ensure a safe and healthy living environment for their tenants.
Jamie Sandilands is specification director at Grant Westfield Cost-eff ective and easy to install shower and bathroom wall panels
Alongside its leading tile ranges, Parkside Architectural Tiles is also able to off er new-build and refurbishment housing projects shower and bathroom wall panels that give a waterproof and hassle-free fi nish. With a 30-year manufacturer warranty and available in an impressive range of decorative eff ects, the PVC and laminate shower and bathroom wall panels bring a premium look without the price tag. From marble and terrazzo to mineral, stone and tile; the system makes it fast and easy to create a high-spec look in a 100% waterproof fi nish that’s mould-resistant and easy to clean. For social homes and student accommodation, the cellular PVC panels are a stylish and low-cost solution. 100% waterproof, they are ideal for use in showers, bathrooms and wetrooms, creating an attractive and durable wall fi nish. Quick to install on a range of wall substrates using compatible high-grab adhesive, the panels can be installed in shower enclosures, bath surrounds and walls to give a fi nish that requires minimal maintenance. Importantly, the fi nish is easy to clean for tenants and without grout lines, it helps to cut down on mould and bacteria growth. Periodic maintenance with an anti-bacterial PVC cleaner maintains excellent hygiene. T e surface is also resistant to scratches and stains. T e aff ordable panels improve the look of bathrooms in social and aff ordable homes while making them easier to look aſt er and more hygienic for tenants.
0116 276 2532
www.parkside.co.uk Save time and promote safety with Mapei Topcem HMM04_Parkside_Interiors -
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Mapei has developed a range of rapid-drying screeds that perform to the highest technical standards in fast-track installations, while also providing a safe and sustainable application. To speed up moisture evaporation in Portland cement-based screed, Mapei has formulated a special binder which incorporates admixtures in powder form. T e binder reduces the amount of mixing water needed, increases mechanical strength and reduces shrinkage and drying time. Products featuring this technology include Mapei’s best-selling EMICODE: EC1 Plus-certifi ed Topcem and Topcem Pronto. Mapei Topcem is a specialist hydraulic binder for normal setting, fast-drying and shrinkage-compensated screeds. It can be used to form bonded, unbonded, fl oating screeds – including those with piped underfl oor heating – on new and existing concrete prior to fl oor installation – inside and outdoors. Mapei Topcem Pronto is the ready-mixed, rapid-drying formulation with high thermal conductivity, ideal for heated screeds. Both screeds set to light traffi c aſt er 12 hours. Ceramic tiles can be laid aſt er 24 hours, natural stone aſt er two days and, within four days, the fi nish is completely dry and can accept moisture sensitive fl oorcoverings, including resilient and wood fl ooring. In addition to new applications, Mapei Topcem and Topcem Pronto are also ideal for patching, repairing and time-sensitive screed replacement.
info@mapei.co.uk www.mapei.co.uk HMM04_Mapei_Interiors - Floors & Floor
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www.housingmmonline.co.uk | HMM April/May 2024 | 41 24/04/2024 09:29 24/04/2024 10:18
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