SandFlex Installation
STOP
BEFORE YOU UNROLL YOUR SANDFLEX PRODUCT, ENSURE THAT IT HAS WARMED UP TO ROOM TEMPERATURES. You may need to use a heat gun and gently warm it as you unroll to avoid cracking.
INSTALLATION
SandFlex is a thin roll of sandstone veneer with a fabric mesh backing and can be applied over numerous surfaces such as concrete, drywall, painted surfaces, ceramic, wood, plywood, MDF, cabinetry and many others.
SandFlex is used in generally the same way wood veneer and laminate products are used. The minimum inward or outward radius it will flex depends on the surface texture of the sandstone before it starts to crack. Warming SandFlex with a heat gun, making it more pliable, will help achieve a tighter radius.
Tools
SandFlex’s thin profile allows it to be cut with a standard utility or Olfa knife or shears for tighter curves. Additional installation tools required: Smooth Trowel or putty knife, 3/16” V-Notched Trowel, Rubber Covered Veneer Roller, Eye protection.
Safety First
Ensure that proper eye protection is worn when cutting SandFlex rolls. If cutting SandFlex with any tool which creates dust, work outdoors if possible in a well ventilated area or use a properly filtered ventilation system and a NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator.
Base Preparation
Any of the substrates mentioned above are suitable for SandFlex installation. The type of adhesive should be chosen relative to the base material and projected usage. Be sure to test any of the adhesives you intend to use and ensure that your surfaces are clean and free of an contaminants that will hinder proper adhesion.
SandFlex rolls are pre-sealed to protect the roll surface during installation. After installation we recommend resealing the surface as further protection with natural stone sealers. Varnish, urethane, lacquer or other clear finishes may also be used to protect the surface. Ensure that you test these products so they don’t adversely effect the appearance of the SandFlex.
Adhesives
SandFlex should be applied with a premixed wall and floor tile adhesive such as Duoflex 90 from Flextile, using a 3/16” V-notch trowel. Any adhesive that you are considering for use with SandFlex should be tested prior to use.
Design
Initial prep and design for the area which you are covering will be worth while. An initial dry fit of SandFlex allows for the placement of rolls, textures and colours before final positioning.
Application
A 3/16” V-notched trowel is recommended for applying adhesive on substrate. Once your roll has been applied to your surface it is important to remove air bubbles which may be trapped between the SandFlex and the substrate. Starting in the center of the roll and working outward towards the edges apply gentle, even pressure on your rubber covered veneer roller. Take care that you are not pushing your roller too heavily or you will force the adhesive out around the edges.
SandFlex may be butt together or you can create a tiled look by leaving a grout joint between the rolls. A modified, non-sanded or water based epoxy grouts work well to fill the grout lines. Remember to re-seal after grouting is completed.
