How to install flexible ceramic

Flexible ceramic installs faster than tile or stone because it glues on and cuts with a knife. Here's the essential method — always follow the specific adhesive and substrate guidance for your project.

1. Prepare the substrate

The base must be sound, clean, dry and reasonably flat — concrete, brick, cement render, plaster, drywall or plywood all work. Remove dust and loose material and prime absorbent surfaces where required.

2. Plan the layout

Dry-lay or mark out panels to plan joints and grain direction. Because sheets are large, fewer joints mean a more monolithic, natural-stone look.

3. Apply adhesive and set panels

Apply a suitable adhesive to the substrate (and back-butter if specified), then press the panel firmly into place, working out air and ensuring full contact. Wipe any squeeze-out immediately.

4. Cut and wrap corners

Cut panels to size with a sharp knife or shears. For columns and curved corners, warm/flex the panel as needed and wrap it continuously to avoid visible joints.

5. Finish and protect

Point or seal joints as specified, clean the surface, and protect from heavy traffic while the adhesive fully cures. The finished wall needs only routine cleaning thereafter.