How to Install MDF Overlapping Assembly Wainscot

IMPORTANT WARNING!
This product will expand and contract. Loosely fit individual boards together to allow for expansion. DO NOT tightly press individual boards together. They WILL buckle when expansion occurs. Leave a minimum of 1/8” at the edge of first/last board and corner. Best installed in a climate-controlled environment. Allow ample time for product to acclimate to room temperature.


To minimize expansion or contraction of the product, open all packages. Place the pieces flat with space between each for air to circulate. Allow 72 hours for pieces to adjust to
the temperature and humidity of the room in which they will be installed — not in a damp or unheated area.


Your MDF has a primer only finish, it will require a finishing coat of paint. MDF can be painted either before or after installation.


Expansion and contraction are inherent characteristics of MDF products due to humidity. The manufacturer cannot be held liable for contraction and expansion of planks.


If walls are cracked, uneven or extremely rough, planks should be glued and/or nailed to a framework of 2” x 4”, 1” x 3” or 1” x 4” strips of kiln-dried wood.


If walls are in good condition, glue or nail wainscot directly on existing drywall, plywood or paneling.


Note: In rooms with extremely high moisture (e.g., saunas, bathrooms or laundry areas), apply a vapor barrier, like 4 mil polyethylene, between the studs and wainscot. An oil based paint will offer more moisture resistance than a water based paint.


Glue or nail wainscot base trim to wall with grooved end up.


PLANKING:
Start with top lap edge toward corner. Leave about 1/8” space between your first piece and corner, allowing for expansion. Make sure first piece is plumb. Secure first piece by nailing close to the overlapping edge with 1” finishing nails. (Contractor’s glue can also be used.)


Add new pieces of wainscot by simply overlapping each piece. As you are working, check frequently for plumb with level or tape measure.


When you come to a corner, rip the piece to proper width. Finish corner with corner round, cove or square stock. Secure with glue or 1” finishing nails.


TIPS
• Nailing: Use nail gun for fastest, easiest application. Putty nail holes before painting.
• Your MDF has a primer only finish. It will require a finishing coat of paint. MDF can be painted either before or after installation.
• Check frequently for plumb with level or tape measure.
• Gluing: Use quality panel glue to secure.
• To maintain House of Fara MDF products, simply wipe with damp cloth.