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Maintaining Fluted Panels; It's Easier Than You Think

Fluted Panels' Appeal and Cleaning Ease

Feature panels are a rising trend in interior walls, and fluted panels are well-received for having a streamlined appeal and cleaning ease. Made of engineered composites, fluted panels have enhanced material protection for straightforward maintenance. In the previous blog post, we covered practical and expressive ways in which fluted panels define home interior spaces. In continuation, here is an informative guide on maintaining fluted panels.

Maintain Conducive Environment

Install fluted panels away from windows and doors to avoid direct sunlight and rain splatter. While they withstand environmental conditions well, it is prudent to prevent prolonged exposure to natural elements. Interior conditions are equally essential to ensure a conducive environment to protect fluted panels. Avoid installing panels near air-conditioners, heaters and other electrical appliances to prevent moisture, dryness, vibration and temperature fluctuation. Another straightforward way is to fix curtains or louvre blinds on windows to deflect or soften ultraviolet (UV) impact.

With a corrugating pattern of ridges and grooves in a geometric flow, fluted panels have a calming effect on our minds. Besides living rooms and bedrooms, installing it in kitchens and bathrooms gives a much needed soothing and decorative effect. Hence, you will want to protect the panels against grease and moisture by installing the panels away from stoves, showers and taps. Despite minimising exposure, dust and stains will spread and accumulate on grooves and ridges over time. But fret not, as simple cleaning will suffice.

Clean Dust and Dirt

Fluting has the geometric allure and alignment of linear lines, zig-zag or chevron patterns, and concave or convex shapes. Such features facilitate the flexibility to install and complement the designs or themes of surrounding interiors. Conversely, their contours and corrugation allow dust to settle in. Hence, it is essential to wipe regularly to prevent dust accumulation.

For vertical panels, wipe the contours and grooves in a top-down approach with a damp microfibre cloth to trap dust. Use a mild cleaning agent if necessary. If the panels are horizontal or with a wide width, apply a circular or "S'' motion sideways from the top panel to the bottom panel. Wash off the cloth when it builds up trapped dust and dirt before continuing wiping. In this manner, you minimise dust and dirt to redistribute back onto the surface. Through quick and regular cleaning with proper directions, it reduces the hassle and electricity costs of using a vacuum cleaner. Next, we look at how to wipe stains and splatters.

Wipe Stains and Splatters

While being careful, it is unavoidable that oil stains and liquid splatters may occur. Have trouble with kids scribbling on the wall? Use a lint-free polyester or microfibre cloth with gentle motions while wiping away the unwanted elements. Pat the affected areas with soap water or shower foam, and it is advisable to wipe vertically from top to bottom in a circular or "S" motion. Wipe dry after wiping off with fresh water. Horizontal and bottom to top directions can cause water to spread or drip and thus form streaks on walls.

This method with soap water will work for most stains and splatters. What about stubborn dirt and grime? Typically, powerful detergents or solvent cleaners will do the trick. However, they have acidic compounds that cause damage to the panels and are hazardous to our respiration. We got you covered with NBL Express’ Concentrated Vinyl Cleaner that safely cleans panels and restores shine.

For more information on fluted panels and their care instructions, you can contact us at 6252 1910 / 6465 0429 or email ecoflooring@nblexpress.com. Our showroom is at 615 Balestier Road Singapore 329910, operating from 10 am to 7 pm daily.