Nano panel joints are coming loose: What are the causes and how to fix them?

During the installation of Nano cladding panels, especially those with a width of approximately 400mm and a standard length of 3m, some projects may observe small gaps at the tongue-and-groove joints. These gaps are usually very small, within a certain range. 0,5 - 1mm.

This condition only occurs in This percentage is very low, approximately 2-3% of the total number of completed projects.However, if the user or contractor does not fully understand the technical cause, even small gaps can give the impression that the surface is not truly seamless. Understanding the mechanism behind this will help in quick resolution and prevent damage to the cladding system's structure.

Currently, Kosmos is implementing two approaches For this case, it includes: Adjust the joint during installation. or Cosmetic treatment using colored sealant..

Why do gaps appear at the joints of nano-coated panels?

The phenomenon of gaps in Nano wall panels does not stem from a single cause but is usually the result of four converging technical factors during the manufacturing and installation process:

1. Manufacturing tolerances: Even with standardized quality control, products still have certain tolerances. With Nano cladding panels, an allowable error of ±5% can result in joints that are not perfectly tight, especially when using panels of large lengths.
2. Material expansion rate: Nano cladding panels have high stability; the shrinkage after immersion in water at a temperature of (20 ± 2)℃ for 24 hours only ranges from -0,05% to 0,01%. However, when converted to a 3m length, this dimensional change can still create very small gaps at the joints.
3. Application surface conditions: If the surface difference exceeds 2mm/1m length, the panels will be slightly misaligned during installation. This prevents the interlocking system from fitting perfectly, resulting in gaps at some joints.
4. Installation technique: Une uneven or incorrect application of force during the tongue and groove jointing process, starting with the first panel, can create a cascading misalignment effect. Subsequent panels, even if the correct size, are prone to slight shifting, resulting in gaps at the joint.
   

How to fix gaps in the joints of Nano cladding panels?

There are two options for dealing with gaps in the joints of Nano cladding panels:

1. Use colored sealant to fill the gaps: For small gaps of 0,5–1mm, using a sealant that matches the surface color of the cladding panel is a simple and effective solution. The sealant helps cover the gaps, creating a seamless surface without removing the panel or interfering with the cladding system's structure.
2. Apply pressure: If detected early during installation, the worker can manually apply pressure to the edges of the panels to ensure a tighter fit of the tongue-and-groove joints. Afterward, secure them in place. stainless steel shelf and screws are used in the tongue-and-groove position to ensure long-term stability.

Does the gap at the joints affect the durability of the nano-coating panels?

Small gaps at the joint It does not degrade the durability or structure. of the Nano cladding panel. Essentially, this is a matter related to the aesthetic finish and does not affect the long-term usability of the material.

The durability of the Nano cladding system depends primarily on three main factors:

1. Base surface: Walls or ceilings must be dry, clean, and flat, with a surface area not exceeding 2mm/1m.
2. Construction process: Combine construction adhesive and stainless steel spacers, with a spacing of ≤50cm.
3. Material properties: The moisture resistance, dimensional stability, and mechanical strength of the cladding panels are not affected by small gaps of 0,5 – 1mm.
   

A gap of 0,5-1mm at the joints of Nano cladding panels is a rare technical issue and entirely controllable. This small gap does not affect the structure and can be properly addressed by pressing or filling with colored sealant to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the project. Kosmos is ready to provide further advice on this matter. Nano panel installation techniques by number 0932.067.388