Installation & Specification

1. Site Conditions

Before commencing installation, verify that environmental conditions fall within the acceptable range. Work carried out outside these parameters risks adhesive failure and compromised long-term bond strength.

In summer conditions, avoid direct and sustained sun exposure on freshly bonded panels. In winter, do not allow the substrate surface to carry visible moisture before application of adhesive.

2. Substrate Requirements

MCM panels can be bonded to a wide range of substrates. The underlying surface must be structurally sound, free of hollow sections, and clean of dust, oil, and loose material. Surface flatness and plumb must meet the minimum requirements of the applicable national plastering standard before work begins.

The table below summarises preparation requirements by substrate type.

3. Adhesive — Selection and Preparation

Two adhesive systems are available depending on application context. Both are cement-based and formaldehyde-free. Select the adhesive colour closest to the panel finish for best results at visible joints.

Mixing Procedure

1. 01 Weigh componentsPour the liquid emulsion (Component B) into a clean mixing bucket. Use a calibrated scale — ratio accuracy affects open time and final bond strength.
2. 02 Add powderAdd Component A gradually. Mix with a paddle mixer until the consistency resembles a smooth, lump-free paste. Do not add additional water.
3. 03 Batch sizeMix only the quantity that can be applied within the working time (typically 45–60 minutes at 20 °C). Unused adhesive must be sealed and re-mixed before reuse — do not add water to extend working life.

4. Installation Procedure

4.1 Layout and Setting Out

Establish horizontal and vertical datum lines across the full installation area using a spirit level and chalk line. Setting out should account for panel module, joint width, and any required cuts at perimeter edges or openings. Work from a fixed datum and check plumb regularly throughout installation.

4.2 Adhesive Application

Apply adhesive to the back face of the panel using a notched trowel. Draw continuous, unbroken ridges across the full surface. Adhesive coverage must reach a minimum of 80 % for standard panels and 90 % for flat-face panels. Leave a 10–15 mm clear margin along panel edges to allow handling without contaminating hands.

4.3 Bonding

1. 01 Position and pressPlace the panel against the substrate, align to the datum lines, and press firmly using both hands with a sliding motion to distribute adhesive evenly to all edges. Do not use finger-point pressure.
2. 02 Tap to seatUse a flat rubber mallet or bonding board to tap the panel surface uniformly until the panel is fully bedded. Confirm alignment before adhesive begins to set.
3. 03 SequenceWork from top to bottom. This prevents adhesive drips from contaminating already-bonded panels below.
4. 04 Temporary fixing (large-format panels)For panels larger than 600 × 600 mm on vertical surfaces, pin with a nail gun at the upper edge while adhesive cures to prevent downward slip.

4.4 Joint Treatment

Allow adhesive to achieve initial set before filling joints. Remove any adhesive squeezed into joint lines before it hardens — dried adhesive in joints will prevent clean grouting.

1. 01 Grout applicationApply matching grout using a piping bag or mechanical grout gun. Fill all joints completely — partial filling will allow moisture ingress and is a common cause of long-term failure on exterior installations.
2. 02 ToolingWhen the grout has reached initial set (firm but not fully hard), draw a steel jointing rod along each joint to produce a concave, dense, smooth profile. Do not tool when the grout is still wet.
3. 03 Clean-upRemove grout residue from panel faces using a dry sponge or dry cloth. Do not use wet cloths — moisture will smear grout pigment into panel texture. For stubborn residue, wait until fully dry and remove with a scraper or panel cleaning solution. Do not use acidic cleaners.

5. Corner Detailing

External corners (convex)

Two methods are acceptable. The choice depends on panel thickness and the required visual finish.

Internal corners (concave)

Overlap configuration — one panel face runs to the corner, the adjoining panel butts against it. Either right-over-left or left-over-right is acceptable. Ensure the overlapping edge is flush and properly bedded.

Window sills and reveals

Sill and reveal conditions can be treated with the same mitre detail as external corners. Alternatively, use a lapped joint — upper panel laps over lower panel edge — and finish the exposed edge with a light application of matching MCM surface glaze once the joint is clean and dry.

6. Panel Cutting

MCM panels can be cut on site with standard tools. No specialist equipment is required.

7. Surface Finish and Protection

For installations where a consistent, sealed surface appearance is required, apply MCM surface glaze (面釉) once bonding and jointing are fully cured. Apply with a brush working top to bottom in a single pass, and immediately wipe down with a clean dry cloth. Do not allow glaze to pool or run. Change wiping cloths frequently to avoid redistributing contamination across the surface.

On interior installations, MCM panels are zero-formaldehyde and do not require a curing or off-gassing period before occupancy.

8. Completed Work — Site Protection

Protect bonded panels at high-traffic locations — door reveals, corridor entries, external corners — with temporary boarding or foam protection until the project handover. Protect completed exterior work from rain for a minimum of 48 hours after installation.

After project completion, cover or protect any areas that may be at risk from subsequent trades (paint, render, sealant work) until those operations are complete.

9. On-Site Storage

On delivery, check the consignment against the order — quantity, product code, colour reference, and panel size — before acceptance. Any discrepancies should be recorded with photographic evidence and reported to the supplier before installation begins.