Wall Panel Installation Insider Tips: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Even the best wall panels can fail if installed incorrectly. Here’s how to ensure a flawless finish:

Prep Work: The Foundation of Success

Rushing surface preparation is the #1 cause of panel failure. Walls must be clean, dry, and flat. For new drywall, apply a primer to

seal pores—unprimed drywall absorbs moisture from adhesives, causing panels to lift. For old walls, fill cracks with spackle and sand

smooth; uneven surfaces will show through thin panels like PVC or PS.

Pro tip: Use a laser level to check for wall straightness. If walls are bowed more than 3mm, install furring strips first to create a flat

base.

Adhesive: Choose Wisely

Not all adhesives work for all panels. SPC wall panels, with their weight, require heavy-duty construction adhesive (like PL Premium),

while PVC wall panels can use a water-based contact adhesive. Never use wood glue on PVC—it breaks down over time, leading to gaps.

For humid areas (bathrooms, kitchens), opt for mildew-resistant adhesives. 

Tools Matter

DIYers can install most panels with basic tools—a utility knife for cutting PVC, a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade for SPC and

WPC, and a rubber mallet for tapping panels into place. For 3D PS panels, a jigsaw is better for intricate cuts.

Avoid using a hammer directly on panels—you’ll dent or crack them. Instead, use a scrap piece of wood as a buffer.

Sustainability Spotlight: Eco-Friendly Panels for Green Projects

As global focus on sustainability grows, wall panels are stepping up to meet eco-friendly standards. Here’s what to look for:

ENF-Grade Certification

This is the gold standard for low emissions. ENF-grade panels (like Zhuokang’s SPC and WPC options) emit less than 0.025mg/m³ of

formaldehyde—20 times stricter than the EU’s E1 standard. They’re safe for nurseries and bedrooms, and they qualify for LEED

points in commercial projects.

Recycled Materials

Many WPC wall panels contain 50-70% recycled wood fibers and plastic, diverting waste from landfills. A single 100m² WPC installation 

reuses approximately 300kg of plastic bottles and 200kg of wood scraps.

Low-VOC Finishes

PVC and PU panels with water-based paints (instead of solvent-based) release fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving

indoor air quality. Look for “low-VOC” or “zero-VOC” labels.

Longevity = Less Waste

The longer a panel lasts, the fewer replacements it requires. SPC and WPC panels have lifespans of 25+ years, reducing the

environmental impact of manufacturing and disposal. A study by the European Environmental Agency found that durable wall panels

cut lifecycle emissions by 40% compared to traditional drywall (which needs replacing every 10-15 years).

Real-World Success Stories: Panels in Action

Nothing illustrates the power of wall panels like real projects. Here are three standout examples:

Hospital Renovation, Chicago

Challenge: A busy pediatric ward needed wall surfaces that could withstand frequent cleaning, resist scratches from carts, and be

safe for kids.

Solution: SPC anti-collision panels in bright, playful colors.

Result: 90% reduction in wall damage repairs, 30% faster cleaning times, and positive feedback from families on the “friendlier”

environment.

Boutique Hotel, Lisbon

Challenge: Create a luxury vibe on a mid-range budget, with a focus on unique design.

Solution: 3D PS panels in the lobby (custom geometric pattern) and PU stone panels in guest bathrooms.

Result: Occupancy rates increased by 15% after renovation; guests praised the “high-end” feel.

Beach House, Sydney

Challenge: Protect walls from saltwater, humidity, and harsh sunlight.

Solution: WPC panels for exterior walls (resistant to salt corrosion) and PVC panels for indoor bathrooms.

Result: 5 years later, no signs of warping or fading; maintenance costs 60% lower than a neighboring house with traditional siding.

Final Checklist: How to Choose Your Panels

1.Assess Your Space

High moisture? Go with PVC, SPC, or PU stone.

High traffic? SPC is best.

Outdoor use? WPC or weather-resistant PU.

2.Define Your Aesthetic

Modern? 3D PS or mirror PVC.

Rustic? Wood-grain WPC or PU stone.

Luxury? Marble-look PVC or custom 3D panels.

3.Check Certifications

For homes: ENF-grade, low-VOC.

For commercial: Fire ratings (UL94 V-0), ISO 9001 quality certification.

4.Order Samples

Test texture, color (lighting changes how colors appear!), and durability (scratch a small area with a key).

Transform Your Space with Confidence

Modern wall panels offer a solution for every project—whether you’re prioritizing durability, design, or sustainability. From SPC’s

rugged reliability to PU stone’s elegant texture, these materials are more than just walls—they’re tools to create spaces that function

and inspire.

Ready to unlock the secret to stunning, long-lasting walls? Contact Zhuokang today for custom solutions, sample requests, or

technical specifications. With global shipping and expert support, transforming your vision into reality has never been easier.

Call to Action: Visit [Shanghai Zhuokang Wood Industry Co., Ltd.] or email [jifei@zhuokangsh.com] to discover how our wall panels

can redefine your next project.