Sandwich panels – 5 most common mistakes that can ruin your project
Sandwich panels are a modern and effective solution for thermal insulation, but even the best products can lead to problems if installation and selection are not done correctly. Thermal panels can turn any building into a true fortress against cold and heat, but only if you know how to avoid some basic mistakes. In this article from LATIVA, we will look at the most common oversights that owners and installers make when using insulation panels and how to easily prevent them.
Choosing the wrong thickness of thermal panels
Many people first look only at the price when choosing sandwich panels, but a low price per sq.m is not always the best deal. For example, if you choose wall thermal panels with a thickness of only 40 mm for a room that is constantly heated or cooled, your electricity costs can increase significantly. On the contrary – if you opt for panels with a thickness of about 80–100 mm, you will achieve an optimal balance between energy efficiency and price. It is good to consult your choice in advance with the experts at LATIVA to avoid such a mistake.
How to choose the right panel thickness?
- For heated rooms: over 80 mm thickness.
- For storage rooms and industrial buildings: recommended thickness is from 60 to 80 mm.
- For temporary structures: panels with a thickness of 40 mm can be used.
Neglecting fire safety during installation of insulation panels
Some people do not pay attention to fire safety requirements when buying sandwich panels. If it is about warehouses or industrial buildings, insulation panels with polyurethane foam (PUR) are a good choice for insulation but are not fire-resistant. For sites with increased fire risk – choose thermal panels with mineral wool, which have better fire safety properties. It is important to follow the instructions in the Installation Instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid the risk of incidents.
Wrong choice of fasteners for thermal panels
Even if you buy the highest quality panels, inappropriate screws or fasteners can cause serious damage. Sandwich panels must be fixed with special self-drilling screws that have a sealing washer and do not allow water or condensation penetration. Without the appropriate fasteners during installation, you risk the panels deforming or even falling, causing significant damage and safety risks.
Which fasteners are suitable for installing thermal panels?
- Self-drilling screws with EPDM sealing
- Fasteners with anti-corrosion coating for outdoor installation
- Fasteners with special tips for different bases (metal, wood, concrete)
Incorrect cutting of thermal panels
One of the common mistakes is improper cutting of the panels during installation. This leads to material loss, worsens the appearance and insulation properties of the facade. It is important to use specialized tools that provide a clean and precise cut. Also, if you are not sure, turn to the professional services of LATIVA to guarantee perfect results without unnecessary headaches and costs.
Insufficient attention when storing the panels
Sometimes users do not pay enough attention to the storage conditions of sandwich panels. They must be placed on a flat and dry surface and covered with protective foil to avoid damage from moisture or mechanical damage. Remember – damaged panels lose their properties and can create problems right at the start of the project.
Tips for proper storage:
- Store the panels in the original packaging.
- Provide a dry and ventilated room.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Installing sandwich panels without proper preparation
Another common problem during the installation of thermal panels is the lack of preliminary preparation of the surface on which they will be mounted. Before starting work, the surface must be clean, dry, and perfectly flat. Neglecting these conditions can lead to reduced durability and risk of water and moisture penetration, which significantly reduces the service life of the panels. If you want to be sure of a perfect result, entrust the installation to the specialists from LATIVA, who offer professional installation for every type of roofing.
How to properly prepare the surface for installation?
- Clean the base from dust and greasy stains
- Check for unevenness and defects
- Correct all irregularities with appropriate materials
Omitting additional waterproofing when installing insulation panels
Although sandwich panels have high insulation properties, they are not always sufficient by themselves. Many people think that additional waterproofing is not necessary, especially when installing panels for the roofs of halls and industrial buildings. In reality, it is important to add appropriate ARR waterproofing or SBS membrane to guarantee absolute protection of the building from weather influences. This will save you large repair costs for roofs in the future.
Ignoring the warranty conditions of thermal panels
A common mistake is users ignoring the warranties offered by the manufacturer. It is important to familiarize yourself in advance with the warranty conditions and keep the necessary documents for possible future claims. Most quality thermal panels offered by LATIVA come with clear warranty conditions that must be followed to fully benefit from the advantages of the products.
What to watch for in the warranty conditions?
- Warranty period
- Covered defects and exclusions
- Installation and operation conditions
Avoiding consultation with experts when choosing sandwich panels
Often users think they can make the best choice themselves, but reality is often different. Lack of consultation can cost you a lot of money and lost time. For example, by choosing thermal panels with inappropriate characteristics for your project, you risk compromising the entire insulation. The team of specialists at LATIVA is always ready with free consultation and recommendations to help you avoid such unwanted situations.
Avoiding common phrases related to sandwich panels – answers to frequently asked questions
You have probably asked yourself the question: “How to choose the right sandwich panels for the roof?” The answer depends on the purpose and features of the building – thickness, insulation properties, fire resistance. Or maybe you wonder: “Are special screws needed for sandwich panels?” Definitely yes! Use only self-drilling screws with a special sealing washer. Such information is important for the proper use of your panels.
Final tips and how to avoid the most common mistakes
The best way to be sure you won’t make any of these mistakes is to trust the professionals. At LATIVA we offer everything you need – from high-quality sandwich panels and suitable fasteners to professional installation. You can also rely on us for delivery to your site throughout Bulgaria – directly from the factory for larger orders or via courier companies for smaller quantities.
Are you ready to start your project with sandwich panels without any problems? Contact the LATIVA team today to get your personal offer and professional consultation.
Contact us and start your project right from the very beginning!
