Kitchen Backsplash - Rib in Brushed Aluminum

Please read these installation instructions in their entirety before beginning your Fasade Backsplash installation

• Before starting make sure all surfaces are clean, dry, smooth, and free from dust, grease, wax, etc.
• Prior to installing the panels it is important to understand the overlap feature of the panels. Each panel has two 1/2″ flat edges (the longer flat edge is the top of the panel and shorter flat edge is the right side of the panel). Arrange all of the backsplash panels this way so additional panels can be added to the top or right side of any panel.
• When installing two or more panels vertically or when overlapping 4 panels, it is necessary to cut a 1/2″ notch in panels 2 and 3 (the middle panels) to avoid an overlap buildup that causes a “bump.” (see drawing)

• Start from the bottom-left and work either upwards or to the right. An exception to this rule would be designing layout of panels to be centered at a focal point, such as behind a sink or stove area, then build out from both sides of the focal point.
• Cut the backsplash panels to size using a utility knife with fresh blades or a good pair of scissors or tin snips. When using a utility knife, score the finished side of the panel using a steel straight edge as a guide. Apply light pressure on the first pass with the blade and then gradually increase the pressure on a few more passes, there is no need to try to cut through the panel. Then bend back and snap like a sheet of glass.
• Before installing backsplash panels, cut all pieces to size and check to make sure they all fit perfectly in place and overlap properly. When overlapping, leave a 1/16″ space for expansion.

Backsplash Installation – Using Tube Adhesive

• Once it has been determined that all cut pieces fit properly, install your first backsplash panel. Start at the far left, and apply adhesive to the back of your first panel. The recommended adhesive to use is LockTite PL Premium. Apply adhesive according to drawing below, using approximately 1/4″ bead. (Adhesive 10.5 oz. size covers approximately 4 backsplash panels.) *Please consult the individual adhesive instructions on the container prior to beginning your installation.

• If your panels have protective film on the decorative side, it must be removed now, prior to adding additional panels so the adhesive will bond properly at the overlaps.
• Place panel and press against the wall’s surface, using a soft cloth to apply pressure evenly across the panel and squeeze out the excess air.
• With a damp sponge or cloth, clean off any adhesive residue that is visible while it is still wet. Do not allow this residue to dry as it will be very hard to clean up when dry.
• Finish installing your decorative backsplash panels by adding additional panels in the same fashion.
• Finish the edges. If the area to be covered ends on a flat wall, and you desire to finish the cut edge of the last panel, it can be done by using a piece of matching Edge J-Trim. This trim piece slides onto the cut edge of the panel. If you have an inside corner, it is recommended to use a piece of matching Inside Corner Trim. See drawing below.

Backsplash Installation – Using Double-Sided Tape

• Apply adhesive strips: start by applying three horizontal strips of tape the length of the wall on the top, middle and bottom of the wall where each panel will be installed. Note: Carefully locate each panel location prior to installation, as the adhesive tape is very aggressive. An alternative method is to apply the double-sided tape to the backsplash first, then press into place on the wall. Use three strips of tape with this method too.
• Squeeze out air bubbles by pressing all the applied strips firmly onto the wall (use adhesive roll to squeeze out all air bubbles).
• Remove protective covering from the top layer of strips to expose the sticky adhesive surface.
• Install your first decorative panel by pressing firmly into place when alignment is correct.
• Bond overlap areas by adding a few 1″ x 1″ squares to the overlap area of each panel to get the seams to bond tightly. Make sure all protective film (if any) on the face of the panel is removed prior to adding adhesive squares.
• Finish installation by continuing to add panels in this fashion until complete.
• If the area to be covered ends on a flat wall, and you desire to finish the cut edge of the last panel, it can be done by using a piece of matching Edge J-Trim. This trim piece slides onto the cut edge of the panel. If you have an inside corner, it is recommended to use a piece of matching Inside Corner Trim. See Trim drawing above.

Backsplash Installation Tips

Tip 1. Leave protective film on panels until installation: the protective film can have several helpful uses. Use film surface to place cut marks or notes using a fine-tip marker. It also adds additional protection to panel finish while handling it during preparation.

Tip 2. Finishing panel edge under cabinets: before installation, paint the wall area just under the cabinet to match the darkest color in the panel finish. This will hide any area where a small, thin section of the wall is exposed due to the panel not fitting perfectly along the entire cabinet’s bottom edges. Or use Edge J-Trim along the top edge of the panels where it meets the bottom of the cabinets. The trim can be adjusted to butt perfectly along the bottom edge of the cabinets. Inside corner trim or caulk can be used at the bottom of the backsplash transition between the countertop and the backsplash.

Tip 3. Cutting panels for outlets and light switches: measure and mark the border of where the opening will be with a marker on the protective film. Score along the entire border, and using a utility knife, make a few passes with a bit more pressure each pass. Then in the center area to be removed, cut a 1/2″ to 1″ triangular hole all the way through the panel. Next using a good scissor or tin snips, cut angled cuts from the edges of the cut triangle to the corners of the border scores. The final step is to then carefully bend each corner area along the scores until they break free. See drawing below.

Tip 4. Care and Cleaning: clean only with warm, soapy water. Never use abrasive cleaners such as; Scotchbrite Pads or Brillo Pads, etc. They may harm the finish on the panels. Using a high-quality auto polish can help protect the finish.

CAUTION: Even though these panels are “Class A” fire retardant, they can be deformed with excessive heat. Never expose to heat over 140°F. Keep toaster ovens, cooking ranges, etc. 2-3 inches away from the backsplash panel’s surface.