Question from Sandy

Hello, it’s nice to have somewhere to be able to ask a question and receive a knowledgable reply…. 😀

I’ve done a panel which wasn’t intended to be anything special, just a practice piece really but it’s actually turned out pretty good and I’m just about to grout. I used a scrap piece of laminated particle board I had lying around and now I’m not sure what to do with the edges (or the sides). I haven’t sealed them as yet, just wondering if Bondcrete would do. I’m reluctant to tile the side edges as it’s actually in two pieces, cut along a wavy line and I think tiles would ruin the crispness of the edge. So my question is, other than edging in tile or using some kind of metal edging, what would be the best way to prepare the sides of the timber for a grouted edge. I want to avoid any minor cracks in a grouted side edge, along where the tiles are glued to the timber. I hope that makes sense.

Many thanks for any thoughts,

Sandy

Reply from Brett

Hi Sandy

Thanks for your question.

OK, first things first. Particle board is not a good substrate for mosaic due to it’s susceptibility to water damage. And not just direct water damage, but changes in humidity too.

So the reality is, you may well have problems down the track anyway, but don’t put your finished work anywhere outside or in the bathroom.

Other’s in this group might have some better ideas, but I think my inclination would be to smear a generous layer of silicone over your edge (there’s many colours available), and if the back is exposed, several generous coats of paint would be necessary.

Try and think “”how can I stop moisture getting into the particle board?””

Hope that helps

Best

Brett

Reply from Sandy

I think the board was initially from Bunnings and is white laminate on both sides, so hopefully no water will get in from there. It will probably end up in an entryway, so won’t be exposed to the elements. I will try the silicone on the edges.

The reason I thought I’d have a go with the double sided laminate was I was hoping it might be a bit stronger and therefore not warp as much as most timber seems to (for me at least anyway).

We live and learn……… 😀

Thanks for your help Brett.