The integration of natural wood finishes in showers and booths represents one of the most demanding challenges in contemporary architectural design. Natural wood finishes in areas with direct water exposure require specific technical solutions to ensure both durability and proper structural integration.
Technical Requirements for Wood in Showers
Wood finishes for showers and booths are subjected to extreme conditions, combining constant water exposure, temperature variations, and high ambient humidity. To meet these demands, materials with specific properties must be selected:
Key Characteristics
- Surface impermeability: The outer coating must create an effective barrier against liquid water penetration.
- Dimensional stability: The ability to maintain dimensions with minimal variation under changes in humidity and temperature.
- Chemical resistance: Tolerance to personal hygiene products and household cleaners.
- Non-slip properties: Especially critical for flooring applications.
Parklex Prodema’s NATURHARDPANEL-W panels meet these requirements thanks to their structure, which consists of a core of cellulose fibers treated with thermosetting resins and a natural wood surface layer protected with specialized technical coatings.
Installation Systems for Shower Booths
Installing wood panels in showers requires specific methodologies to ensure proper integration and durability:
Substrate Preparation
Before installing the panels, the substrate must meet essential requirements:
- Prior waterproofing: The substrate must be fully waterproofed with approved systems.
- Flatness: The substrate’s flatness must be verified to avoid stress on the panels.
- Structural strength: The substrate must support the weight of the panels and their fastening elements.
Panel Fastening
In interior design projects that embrace the warmth and naturalness of wood, shower booths can incorporate this material with excellent results, provided certain technical criteria are followed during installation.
One key aspect is the transition between materials used on bathroom walls and those applied inside the shower. This transition must be carefully addressed, both aesthetically and functionally, ensuring harmonious visual continuity and proper watertightness.
Equally critical is the treatment of corner joints within the shower. Precise panel installation in these areas ensures the system’s watertightness and a flawless final appearance. Specifically, the lower corner can be addressed using an overlapping edge system, applying a sealant along the panel to prevent water ingress.
When installing wood panels on shower floors, their integration with vertical paneling must be considered, addressing both design and technical aspects to achieve a durable and visually cohesive result.
Installing panels on battens is the most recommended solution, as it allows for proper water drainage and promotes air circulation. These qualities are essential for maintaining hygiene in the space and ensuring the material’s long-term durability, even in a demanding environment like a shower.
Treatment of Critical Points
Construction details are critical to the success of the installation. The most sensitive areas include:
Sealing Joints and Corners
The treatment of joints between panels and at corners requires special attention:
- Vertical joints: A minimum 3 mm gap, sealed with silicone specific for wet environments, is recommended.
- Horizontal joints: These should be designed to prevent water accumulation, preferably using aluminum channels to facilitate drainage.
- Corners: These can be resolved using miter joints, overlaps, or specific aluminum channels, always ensuring proper waterproofing.
Junctions with Shower Trays
The transition between the paneling and the shower tray is particularly delicate:
- An aluminum or PVC channel must protect the lower edge of the panel.
- Continuous sealing with specific silicone is required to prevent leaks.
- A slight slope at the panel’s lower edge is recommended to facilitate drainage.
Proper installation of natural wood panels in showers and booths not only ensures their durability but also allows the warmth and natural beauty of wood to be enjoyed even in the most demanding environments, creating spaces with a unique aesthetic identity.
Need specific technical advice for your project? Contact our team with no obligation to address technical questions, analyze specific requirements, or develop customized solutions.
