Methods for finishing a room with brick wall panels

Varieties of brick wall slabs

There are two large groups into which it is customary to divide products for finishing.

1. Differing in shape.
2. Differing in material.

From these two groups, various types of panels have emerged.

Shape of products

For the most part, the shape is chosen for ease of installation and its specifics. Products are divided in shape into the following types:

1. Rack type panels. They strongly resemble an ordinary lining. The peculiarity is that the panels are narrow and long, they are mounted on the frame and have a special spike-in-groove fastening. This simplifies installation and makes assembly quick.
2. Rectangular wall slabs of typesetting type. The classic version of the stove. One element has more weight, so installation will have to be done with a partner. But the large size allows you to quickly cope with the task.
3. Decorative sheet panels with imitation of bricks. This option is the most technologically advanced.

Brick finish - a stylish solution for modern interiors

Brick itself is extremely popular and, perhaps, we can say that it is an immortal decorative element for many stylistic decisions. Brick began its career in interior decoration along with the trend towards industrial and loft interiors.

Initially, it was only used in red and orange, which is associated with industrial buildings. However, repainting the brick in other colors, such as white, tamed its industrial character, sending the brick to cozier interiors - Scandinavian or rustic.

And it is not surprising, because his rough beauty works not only in modern arrangements, but also in retro style. Decorative brick in the interior is an interesting and time-tested solution for many styles and trends in modern design.

... “Correctly processed bricks can be used in places subject to adverse conditions - for example, in the kitchen, in the bathroom and even on the facade of a building” ...

Today, when brick tiles on the wall are available in many colors and textures, we can freely find a model that is ideal for any room in our particular home: kitchen, living room, bedroom or bathroom.

Where can brickwork be used:

1. In the kitchen combined with the living room, we can use masonry to create an interesting backdrop for the dining table and draw the eye towards a more elegant part of the room intended for guests;
2. In the bedroom, brick tiles can be laid out at the head of the bed, creating an interesting decorative accent that will also highlight the most important piece of furniture in the room;
3. In a living room, brick tiles can also be an interesting backdrop for family souvenirs, photographs or paintings;
4. In the bathroom, masonry is becoming a solution that is becoming more and more popular as an alternative to classic tiles. It is also a great way to pleasantly surprise guests;
5. In the hallway, white color will create a warm and friendly atmosphere, as well as visually expand the space. Moreover, the material has excellent performance properties.

Brick-like decorative tile for interior decoration not only looks beautiful, but is also a practical addition to the interior. Brick finish in an apartment or house allows you to clearly divide the used spaces in the premises. There are really many options. But here a logical question arises: what material to choose to create a brick wall or a brick wall?

What are MDF panels?

Different types of MDF panels have their own individual characteristics. Their number is constantly increasing.They differ not only in the design of the front part, but also in sizes, colors and production.

Types of MDF panels by production technology

The following modifications are distinguished, depending on the used production technology:

• Standard. The easiest option, low cost, as it does not have any additional features. It is used for finishing strictly indoors without a sharp temperature drop.
• Moisture resistant. Treated with a special compound that is able to resist moisture. It can be used in bathrooms and toilets, however prolonged and direct exposure to water will damage the panel.

Types of panels by the method of design of the front part

The front part of MDF panels can be divided to a large extent, which creates a wealth of choice:

• Laminated. Resistant to many factors: moisture, mechanical damage, etc. It is obtained by applying a special layer to the surface of the panel.
• Veneered. A thin layer of wood is placed on the surface, which gives the product a beautiful structure.
• Cork. A special production technology allows covering the wall panel with a thin layer of cork. The resulting modification is very expensive and does not always justify its use.
• decorative. Imitating natural stone, brick or tile.

Types of MDF panels by manufactured sizes

Before buying MDF panels, you need to familiarize yourself with its dimensions. All manufacturers produce products with different dimensions, however, common options can be noted.

For example, most often they release sheets with a length of 2600 mm, but you can find options from 2400 to 2700 mm. Width is also not a uniform value. Usually the value of this parameter is in the range of 150-900 mm. Some manufacturers produce sheets with a width of 1200 mm.

The thickness can vary several times. Most often, during repairs, panels with a thickness of 3-9 mm are used, but even 60 mm options can be found on sale.

Important! When choosing a thickness, one should be guided by the fact that when choosing thin panels (up to 12 mm), they will only perform a decorative function. Above this value, this type of building material has properties of heat preservation and extinction of extraneous sounds.

Types of MDF panels by laying method

There are three popular types of MDF panels, depending on the installation method:

• Tile. This type of panel is the most popular, has clear dimensions and is well suited for stylish wall decoration. It differs from other types in a large number of options and a clear texture. There are square and rectangular variations.
• Lining. This styling option is most common. It is easy to use and the cheapest. Installation of panels is carried out by connecting them using grooves where a spike is inserted. The laying technology is very simple, so it can be done independently.
• Sheet. Unlike the lining, this type of panel is much larger and does not have grooves for connection. Installation is carried out by creating decorative seams. They are created thanks to special elements. A positive aspect of using such MDF panels is a holistic pattern created due to their large dimensions.

MDF panel color

The color scheme of the panels is very diverse. The most popular colors are those that imitate the structure of wood, for example, oak or walnut. They look very similar to natural solid wood, however, they are much cheaper. The weight of the products is much less than that of natural wood.

There are also MDF panels that imitate animal skin and stone. Some manufacturers produce with ornaments and patterns. Wall panels made of MDF painted in one or more colors are popular among consumers.Their skilful combination allows you to create original design solutions. Colors can be either glossy or matte.

Preparation

PVC is polyvinyl chloride, in a simple way, a kind of plastic. Panels made of this material are especially popular, since they are not afraid of moisture and do not rot, they are quickly mounted, they do not change under the influence of ultraviolet rays, they retain a decent appearance for a long time and, when using a frame, create additional sound insulation. Finally, they are relatively cheap.

Installation of PVC plastic panels always begins with a preparatory stage. First, the material is selected and bought in compliance with several important points. While in the store, you need to inspect the panel cut. If there are thick layers, both external and internal, and a thick lintel, then the finish will be reliable. The thickness of the panel can also be determined by weight - the heavier the panel, the thicker it is. The uniformity of the plastic is then examined. The entire sheet should have a uniform thickness without overly thick or overly narrow spaces - this is a guarantee of good quality.

When a brand and manufacturer is chosen (it is better to pay attention to European firms), then you also need to calculate how much material is needed. Otherwise, unused fragments will remain (and will be overpaid), or, on the contrary, the material will not be enough and you will have to urgently buy it in the store (unnecessary time will be spent)

PVC panels are placed either vertically or horizontally. In the first case, you need to measure the length of the room around the perimeter, then subtract the width of doors and windows from this figure and divide the remainder by the width of one panel. You will get the number of elements needed to repair the premises. It is better to add a couple of units to this figure in case of unforeseen situations.

If the panels are placed horizontally, the first step is to calculate the area of ​​the room. Next, the area of ​​doors and window openings is subtracted from this figure. Finally, the resulting number is divided by the area of ​​one panel (usually this figure is indicated on the packaging by the manufacturer). 10% is also added in case of unforeseen situations. If the sheets are mounted horizontally, then you should be prepared that the material will have to be cut, which means that there will be scraps.

Once you get rid of the packaging, you can get a good look at the edges and individual cells. The panels should not show any dents or damage. The more complex the image, the more important it is to study the quality of its application - blurred fragments and uneven coverage should cause vigilance. Also, if you have to purchase several packs of sheets that must match in color, it is reasonable to unpack and check if the shades converge. Finally, the material should be tested right in the store. One sheet is folded about 30% and then unbend. If there is no damage, then everything is in order with the purchase.

Having acquired the material, it is necessary to prepare the walls. The first step is to remove old paint, tiles, wallpaper and layers of old finishes. Then the surface is leveled with plaster. In addition, it would be a good idea to try to repair the existing grooves or to eliminate protruding elements. Having finished with the leveling of the wall, you can proceed to the primer. It is recommended to choose a composition with additives against mold and mildew. While the primer is drying, you can start assembling the crate, and also bring the panels into the room - they need to stay inside for about 12 hours to adapt to existing conditions.

The elements of the lathing should be located perpendicular to the plastic sheets. This means that if the sheathing runs horizontally, the panels will run vertically and vice versa. The distance between the battens of the crate should be from 30 to 50 centimeters, the first figure is still optimal.The planks are to be fixed near window openings, near doorways, as well as at the beginning and end of the wall.

The lathing is most often attached to the dowels. The length for a concrete wall is 40 millimeters, and a brick wall is 60 millimeters. The distance between the dowels varies from 50 to 60 centimeters. In order for the PVC panels to be evenly laid as a result, the crate must also be in the same plane. To do this, you can use pieces of plywood or wooden spacers, pre-treated with an anti-fungal compound.

Varieties

Consider in more detail the existing options for such a finishing material.

Made of MDF

These fiber boards are medium density, hot pressed under severe pressure and temperature conditions. In the process, lignin is released - a component that has a binding effect.

The standard density of the material varies in the range of 600 - 850 kg per cubic meter, but sometimes this figure is less important, which reduces the final cost of the material.

Such panels are used when decorating offices and living rooms. For a kitchen, a panel protected by a film or plastic layer is considered the best option.

The main advantages include:

• attractive appearance, variety of patterns and colors;
• ease of installation and dismantling works;
• no need for preliminary preparation of walls;
• the strength indicator is higher than that of chipboard;
• affordable cost;
• resistance to high temperatures and humidity;
• isolation from extraneous sounds;
• the ability to retain heat energy in the room;
• environmental Safety.

Wall material made of MDF does not need special care, its surface can be easily cleaned from dirt with a damp cloth.

Unfortunately, there are certain downsides. The material is prone to fire, the coating is damaged from strong impacts, and does not withstand prolonged exposure to water.

PVC

Such wall panels for kitchen bricks are made from polyvinyl chloride raw materials, which are based on vinyl chloride polymer and a special softener. During their manufacture, they are painted with special compounds that increase their resistance to mechanical damage and ultraviolet radiation.

The undeniable advantages are:

• the duration of the service life;
• ease of installation work;
• absence of harmful components dangerous to the human body;
• soundproofing qualities;
• ability to repel dirt, unpretentious care.

As disadvantages, builders note a lower strength indicator compared to MDF material, the ability to ignite.

Plastic

This version of a wall panel for a brick kitchen has the following advantages:

• quickly and easily attached to the surface, so that all work can be done on their own;
• the material can be easily cut with a hacksaw for metal;
• the service life of the panels reaches ten years or more;
• there is no need to carry out preliminary preparation of the wall;
• small weight;
• it is easy to care for such a surface - it is enough to periodically wipe it with a damp sponge;
• the material is universal, suitable for external and internal walls and even the ceiling;
• if the installation work is carried out correctly, the rate of sound insulation and the safety of thermal energy increases, additional protection against water penetration is created.

For completeness of the "picture" a few words should be said about the disadvantages of plastic. It deforms easily from exposure to high temperatures. The brick masonry imitated by plastic panels does not differ in high mechanical strength, dents and small scratches remain on the surface from shock effects.

Tempered glass

A surface finished with such a material serves for a long time. Glass does not break from impact, it is resistant to mechanical stress, because its thickness is four or more millimeters. The material is hygienic, dirt does not linger on its smooth surface. The glass is resistant to humid environments, retains its original appearance for a long time, and is easy to clean.

There is one drawback associated with the high cost of the material.

Non-tempered glass

The panel also has a hygienic surface, is easy to clean, retains its original appearance for a long period, is not scratched and does not allow moisture to pass through.

Unfortunately, such material reacts negatively to high temperature conditions. This means that the panel is not mounted on the slab, so that cracks do not form on its surface.

With a glass panel, you will create an extraordinary design in your kitchen due to the fact that there are options decorated with individual patterns and patterns. One of them is masonry under brick material.

Wallpaper or stone?

Material from a natural brick block, more expensive than the usual roll cloths. It is more used for the construction of buildings, for example, interior partitions, arches, facades and basements, and in rare cases it is left unprocessed and not covered with finishing canvases, for decorative purposes for interior cladding.

Let's try to compare them, evaluating both canvases as a decorative finish product.

• Roll varieties are offered in a huge assortment at a lower cost, with a varied selection of illustrations, with a 3D effect, with photographic elements. Considered a topcoat.
• Roll coverings look the same aesthetically, create a similar look and even have a certain relief, which adds to the external naturalness of the material. At the same time, it is much lighter in weight, does not create a load on the wall structure, is easier to fit and does not require special skills during installation.
• Brick and similar building materials require a professional approach during installation, and create additional weight on the base, since they weigh more. Subsequently, during the repair, it is more difficult to replace, since the installation involves a dusty and dirty process.
• Brick trellis form less thermal insulation and noise insulation, due to the fineness of the coating. They are also more susceptible to the negative effects of water and physical damage, but dismantling or changing is much easier.
• If the surface is made of real brick, it is hard to the touch, and the joints will collect dust, and cleaning in such cases will be more difficult than wallpaper. Such a base is stronger, not subject to the harmful effects of moisture, has better heat and sound insulation, but such a surface looks cold and rough, in addition, it will have to be treated with protective compounds in the form of varnish, in several thick layers, so that cement layers do not crumble.
• Wallpaper glues quickly, compared to the complexity of overlaying a natural look, where engineering precision and adherence to the technological process are required for the correct distribution of weight and uniformity. The traditional method of renovation is the use of roll wallpaper, and they were made precisely to facilitate repair work and decorate the interior of interior rooms.

Any material has its advantages, as well as disadvantages, and it is necessary to give preference in favor of a certain coating, taking into account the desired goals in creating a cozy design. These are completely different coatings that do not compete with each other and are used for different purposes. The modern construction market is expanding with the appearance of new options for canvases for interior decoration, and if you are interested in a brick look, you can also consider panels with an imitation of a similar pattern, and perhaps you will like them more.

What material to choose for finishing work in the apartment?

Quite often, buyers do not know what is the best material to choose for wall decoration. The market really has such a variety and numerous textures that it is not easy to determine.

First, it is important to understand what budget is planned to be spent on repairs. Secondly, the type of premises and the class of the proposed repair

If you need to make a simpler option, then pvc wall panels for interior decoration are suitable. Due to their characteristics, they protect walls, giving them a smoother appearance, and are available in a variety of designs.

PVC wall panels for interior decoration

An expensive type of finish is natural wood panels. In addition to the price, they certainly require a special design in the rest of the interior. Most often, cherry and linden veneer is used for such finishing materials. Moreover, a small fragment of such a wooden finish is enough for the situation to take on a completely different look. Natural tones are chosen as shades for natural material. And in contrast, they add interior details of completely opposite shades. For example, a walnut-colored wall and a dark gray long-piled carpet. Wall coverings look beautiful in rooms where there is a lot of light, there are large windows, panoramic views. Many author's projects of apartments in modern buildings contain this type of decoration.

Natural wood panels

The middle price category is represented by products from MDF. This group of products is characterized by a large palette of colors, textures, versatility and, at the same time, quality that can remain on the walls for 10-15 years without damage or deformation. You can choose a covering in the form of a single sheet, slabs or slats. Moreover, the different size and structure of the surface allows you to create completely different designs in the same space. At the same time, the type of fastening to the wall depends on the texture of the panels.

Wall panels from MDF

Installation technology

On smooth and even surfaces, the panels are glued to a special glue, with significant irregularities and cracks - first, the crate is mounted, after which the panels are fixed on nails or self-tapping screws.

For the frame method, MDF panels with a thickness of at least 5 mm are used.

Frameless method

The wall is cleaned from the old coating, peeling plaster and dirt. To remove dust and better adhesion, it is treated with a primer.

The panels are fixed on a special glue (for example, AVTSO 600), starting from the corners. A gap of 1-3 mm is left at the joints.

The panels are cut with a hacksaw or jigsaw; when sawing, the panels are laid with the wrong side up - so the cut is smoother.

After the glue has completely solidified, the seams between the panels are filled with a special sealant.

We recommend watching a video clip with one of the panel mounting options:

Wireframe method

The frame is pre-installed from a wooden bar 40x40 mm or a profile for drywall in the form of a grid 40x, located at a distance of no more than 40 cm. The distance between the bars is chosen so that the edges of the panels lie exactly on the frame.

Fix the panels to the frame using liquid nails or self-tapping screws. Self-tapping screws are tried to be placed in the "seams" of the brick pattern, so that later they can be hidden with a sealant.
After the panels are installed, the seams are hidden with a sealant.

When installing panels on external corners, special fittings are used to close the sections.

At the floor and ceiling, the joints of panels and corners are trimmed with plinths. Additional finishing and processing of the panel after installation is not required.

The service life of the wall panels is at least 10 years. To preserve their appearance, it is recommended to periodically wipe them with a damp cloth using any detergent. In this case, brick-like panels will be a worthy interior decoration for many years.

Features of the use of decorative panels in rooms with special climatic conditions: photo examples of interiors

To choose the right material, you need to understand the options for its attachment. The most commonly used glue and frame technique. Not a bad solution and self-adhesive options. To do this, you need to properly attach the material and press it. Conventional panels are fixed with strong adhesive. With the glue method, wires and other communication details cannot be hidden under the coating.

Decorating can be quite functional

For rooms with a high level of humidity, PVC panels are suitable. This option successfully replaces wood, wallpaper, tiles or plaster. Plastic provides tremendous opportunities for creating a room design. Manufacturers apply a special protective coating.

And the beautiful material can have thermal insulation qualities and also protect against noise

Also, special panels with non-combustible properties are used for the kitchen. As an option, acrylic is used, which undergoes additional processing. The use of acoustic options will ensure a favorable indoor climate.

How to choose bathroom panels

The bathroom is distinguished by its specificity, in which temperature drops and high humidity can provoke the appearance of a fungus. Therefore, moisture-resistant wall panels are used especially for this room. They are made from a special polymer using additional additives.

You can choose the material with different ornaments

The following waterproof wall slabs can be used to decorate the bathroom walls:

• tile products have the appearance of a square and are used to create a wide variety of ornaments;
• slatted panels are fastened with brackets;
• sheet elements are large.

Combined panel option

For high quality finishes, you can use sheet plates that are made of PVC or fiberboard. The material is covered with special protective compounds.

In order to visually raise the ceiling, it is recommended to install vertically arranged wall panels for interior decoration of the bathroom. You can fix the material with glue, and if the products are fixed to the frame, then screws and staples are used.

Tiled elements are often made of plastic. They are used to simulate a mosaic covering.

It is not necessary to purchase expensive tiles to create a harmonious interior.

What to consider when choosing panels for the kitchen

Instead of regular wallpaper, you can use decorative panels for the kitchen. They are often installed in the apron area. During installation, you do not need to level the walls or purchase additional materials. This finish allows you to mask different communications: cables, pipes or wiring.

Original plates for kitchen apron

When choosing decorative panels for the kitchen wall, it is important to take into account that there is high humidity in this room, temperature fluctuations, as well as frequent cleaning. It is important that the material in the area of ​​the apron ball is moisture-resistant and heat-resistant

In this case, the finish should not absorb moisture.

It is important that the material in the area of ​​the apron is moisture-resistant and heat-resistant. In this case, the finish should not absorb moisture.

A variety of storylines are used as decor.

For any budget, you can choose the best option, taking into account the overall interior. A great solution to use a brick wall panel for the kitchen. A layer of thermal insulation can be placed under the cover. Plastic is a universal solution. In this case, you can pick up slabs of different textures, shapes and colors.

Ideas for decoration with an edible theme

If you plan to glue PVC panels, then you must first prepare the surface. It should be primed and left to dry completely.

Decorative plaster for brick

When we want radical changes in our interior, it is worth betting on something modern and bold. One such solution is to create a "brick wall" with decorative plaster.

And although for true connoisseurs of antiquity, all options except natural old brick or tiles from it do not count, decorative plaster is a quick and relatively simple way of radical repair.

Decorative plaster creates an attractive finish, but it is far from the original

High-quality applied decorative plaster is in many ways similar to gypsum counterparts, but much cheaper

Today, there are several ways to create such a decor. Which one to stop at depends only on your desire and capabilities. You can get more detailed information on this technology in the article "Decorative plaster for brick".