If you’re working in an unfinished job site, wait until the building is sealed off and the heating and cooling systems are up and running before acclimating or installing the FPR panels. Pay especially close attention to getting the right climate set up if you’ll be installing the panels in a high-humidity or low-temperature environment.
Avoid placing the panels on concrete or any surface that could become damp overnight.
Don’t skip this step! If you cut the panels before they’ve had a chance to acclimate, they may shrink or grow to the incorrect size.
Fiberglass particles can be incredibly itchy and irritating, so choose well-fitting protective gear to prevent them from getting embedded in your eyes, skin, and respiratory system. [2] X Research source To be fully covered, you may wear a Tyvek suit.
For example, if you’re cutting a panel to fit along a wall measuring 9 ft (2. 7 m) wall, don’t cut the panel to 9 ft (2. 7 m). Instead, cut it to 8 ft 11½ in (2. 7305 m) so that you can leave 1⁄4 in (0. 64 cm) of space at both the top and the bottom. Allow for at least 1⁄8 in (0. 32 cm) of clearance around molding, piping, fixtures, and electrical boxes. The larger the panel, the more expansion space you’ll need to allow for. So, for a wall measuring 12 ft (3. 7 m) high, you’d leave about 3⁄8 in (0. 95 cm) of space at the top and bottom, instead of the 1⁄4 in (0. 64 cm) needed on on either side for a 9 ft (2. 7 m) high wall.
Avoid cutting the FRP panels from the front side, as you might end up with some nicks or chips along the front side of the material. [3] X Research source
If you’re using a circular saw, just make sure you provide enough support beneath either side of the panel to avoid making incorrect cuts or chipping the surface of the material. When making cutouts, use a jigsaw to give the inside corners a radius of at least 1⁄8 in (0. 32 cm) to prevent stress cracking. [6] X Research source
Unlike saws, shears work well for both straight and curved cuts. Keep in mind that most trimmers will cut out a thin strip from your material. Make sure you line up the blades accordingly so you don’t shave off too much of the panel. [8] X Research source If you’re making cutouts, create a radius of about 1⁄8 in (0. 32 cm) around the inside edges. [9] X Research source
Consider wearing acoustic earmuffs or earplugs, too, if you’ll be drilling for a while.
Consider placing a wooden backer board beneath the FRP to add some stability and to help you achieve the cleanest possible cut as the drill bit pokes through the other side. [12] X Research source
Alternatively, you can use non-carbide drill bits for thin pieces or small quantities. Just be aware that the material will quickly dull the blades.
In general, you’ll want to leave more room on larger panels, but refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct clearance measurements. If you fail to drill a large enough hole, the panels may buckle and bulge out over time. [15] X Research source
