APPLICATIONS / GUIDE 04
A wall finish should be considered in the context of its surroundings. Compare the practical questions raised by kitchens, food areas, healthcare spaces, washrooms and busy circulation routes.
Explore the spacesA BETTER STARTING POINT
Two rooms in the same building can need different wall finishes. One may be cleaned frequently; another may be more exposed to knocks. The position of sinks, equipment, doors and service openings can change the installation details as well.
When comparing hygienic wall cladding, describe the conditions of the actual space first. Then check whether the proposed sheet and full installation system meet its project requirements.
FIVE COMMON SETTINGS
These examples are prompts for planning. They do not replace the technical specification for a particular building or activity.
Working walls sit close to preparation benches, equipment and regular cleaning.
Identify areas exposed to splashes, frequent wiping and contact from kitchen activity. Plan the junctions around worktops, sinks and fixed equipment so they can be maintained appropriately.
Cleaning procedures and the layout of the production space affect the wall plan.
Map wash-down or frequently cleaned zones, equipment positions and any changes between work areas. Confirm the exact material, joints and finishes against the site’s hygiene procedures.
Different clinical and support spaces may have different maintenance requirements.
Establish the cleaning regime and any project-specific specification first. Consider the finish around corners, services and fittings, then request the current evidence for any specialist product claims.
Moisture exposure and the number of wall penetrations can influence detailing.
Look at sinks, fixtures, pipework, corners and transitions to floors and other surfaces. Confirm the substrate and sealing approach required for the intended use of the room.
Traffic patterns can create more contact with walls and vulnerable corners.
Observe where people, trolleys or equipment are likely to brush or strike the wall. A tougher sheet or additional protection may be worth considering in those zones.
ACROSS EVERY APPLICATION
Assess whether the substrate is sound and suitable for the proposed installation.
Measure sheet positions and identify corners, openings and exposed ends before ordering.
Confirm compatible trims, adhesive and sealing components for the selected material.
WHEN THE BRIEF CHANGES
Standard white PVC sheets are one option within a wider range. Colour, additional impact resistance or a specified antimicrobial surface characteristic may also be relevant to a project. Assess those needs separately rather than assuming that every wall requires the same product.
For any performance claim, check the documentation for the exact sheet and the conditions in which it was tested. The chosen wall finish still forms only one part of the site’s cleaning and maintenance arrangements.
FROM SETTING TO SELECTION
VIEW CURRENT PRODUCTS
Explore sizes and specifications at Saniclad, then confirm suitability for your particular space before ordering.