DIY 8 Steps

STEP 1

Check that the surface is even and level. Use packers if the substrate does not meet the above criteria.

1. DETAILED INFORMATION

Always check the substrate is level before fixing Uni-shape Profiles. It is common to find precast panels, render, brickwork, blockwork; AAC & FRC sheet may not be true and out of level. If this is the case simply use packers to level the profile rear. Uni-shape comes in 2.4 - 3 metre lengths. It is advisable not to put any unnecessary stress on the profiles otherwise cracking can occur with daily or seasonal thermal expansion and contraction.

NOTE:

(1) In cutting, mitering and preparing Carpenters can use the same successful methods as for timber type plinths, architraves etc. when in exterior use (i.e. treat Uni-shape as you would timber lengths).

2. DETAILED INFORMATION

It is most common to run a string-line at the lower Uni-shape Moulding edge or the outside edge in the case of a window reveal. Use a temporary anchor or small timber chock along the string-line. Position the profile along this line and rest on the temporary anchor before permanent drill fixing to the substrate.

3. DETAILED INFORMATION

Drill through the moulding and into the substrate with a drill bit to suit the size of the shank of the permanent anchor. Then mechanically fasten far enough to counter sink the head of the anchor into the profile (at least 3mm below the surface of the Uni-shape Profile).

Punch home the anchor taking care not to damage the moulding. Over a 2.4 - 3 metre length profile you must (as a minimum) mechanically fix within 50mm of each end and also stagger fix one side then the other side of the profile at approximately 450mm centres between each fixing along the length of the Uni-shape Profile.

NOTE:

(1) Use Nylon Anchors* (*see supplier list N'2) with counter sunk heads and Easy-drive Anchors* (*see supplier list N'2). Harditex and CFC sheet are fixed with exterior use screws having counter sunk heads. Larger profiles fixed through the base FRC sheet and into the supporting frame. These fixing instructions only apply to standard stock products. Please check with your local technical representative for the preferred fixing method of non-standard products.

STEP 2

Run a string-line at the lower edge where the moulding will be fixed. At sufficient intervals drive in temporary anchors into the substrate. Position the profile and rest on the temporary anchors.

STEP 3

Drill through the moulding and substrate and then counter sink the nylon anchors at least 3mm below the profile surface. Punch home the anchor.

STEP 4

Use a putty knife to fill the fixing cavity with Unitex Putty. Rub the surface with a sponge until the surface matches the texture of the profile.

4. DETAILED INFORMATION

Use a spatula (putty knife) to fill the fixing cavity with Unitex patching compound UPC100 Putty* (*see supplier list N'1). When the cavity is full, rub the surface with a sponge to match the surface texture of the profile (i.e. not glassy smooth but rather a sandy smooth effect like the moulding).

NOTE:

(1) In areas of high humidity and / or wet conditions the UPC100 Putty may require an additional 5-10% cement for faster drying (mixed on the putty board).

STEP 5

From behind seal both side edges of the Uni-Shape moulding

5. DETAILED INFORMATION

When the full length of Uni-shape Moulding is finally fixed into position, both side edges must be sealed between the substrate and the leading edges of the profile. A 25% modulus capable Polyurethane Sealant* (*see supplier list N'1) should be applied neatly.

NOTE:

(1) Acrylic / Water based gap filler mastics are not to be used.(2) Sealant to be applied to rear of profile and to squeeze out to leading edges upon fixing - leaving nil gaps.

STEP 6

To join Uni-shape lengths simply align and leave a gap of approximately 3-5mm. Then fill the gap as in Step 4.

6. DETAILED INFORMATION

Uni-shape Mouldings are fitted together with a 5mm (approximate) straight cut gap. The gap is filled with a Polyurethane Sealant* (*see supplier list) and the clean surface is then leveled. Fine visible pencil joints are the result. Cracking at mastic joint will sometimes occur due to building movement, thermal expansion or a combination of drying/settling of facade profile.

NOTE:

(1) All cut ends to be dust free prior to mastic application. i.e. after cutting, seal butt ends with Cembond Masonry Sealer or similar approved by sealant supplier. Allow to dry before sealant applied.

STEP 7

Always leave the same size gap in the profile as in the engineered Building expansion gap joints. See notes below for more detailed information.

7. DETAILED INFORMATION

Definition: Dissimilar substrate junctions, precast panel to precast panel junctions. Always leave the same size gap in the profile as in the engineered Building expansion gap joints.

NOTE:

(1) In many cases where the expansion joint gaps are 20mm - mastic between the Uni-shape is not used and the gaps remain open without sealant in between. Aesthetically this can work well.

(2) For the expected movement of substrates your Builder and Engineer must design their projects with Building movement in mind. Generally for good Building practice expansion joints / movement joints should be seen on every elevation.

(3) FRC sheeting (cladding) - the gaps between FRC sheets butt jointed (3mm) are not for this purpose (Uni-shape Profiles) to be taken as expansion joints. It is the responsibility of the Builder and Architect or Engineer to predict the likely building movement, surface thermal movement etc. prior to Uni-shape installation (i.e. expect to have a minimum 10mm expansion / slip joint in every elevation). Unitex will not take responsibility for bad design that does not allow for substrate movement.

(4) In the case where a movement joint is designed around a structure (i.e. at the junction of FRC sheet on an upper floor wall to Blockwork or Brickwork on a lower floor), at this movement junction, the Uni-shape profile will be fixed to one substrate only and float over the movement joint, but not be fixed to the adjoining substrate (i.e. the movement joint is neatly hidden behind the surface Uni-shape Profile).

STEP 8

To keep the aesthetic appeal it is important not to overcoat the Uni-Shape Mouldings with texture as the Uni-Shape corners are crisp and sharp. For best results coat with a Uniflex Membrane colour of your choice or an earth tone Unitex London Finish.

8. DETAILED INFORMATION

Uni-shape Profiles by their design have sharp clean, straight lines. To keep the aesthetic appeal it is important not to overcoat the mouldings with texture. For best results coat with the colour of your choice with High Build Membrane Coating* (*see supplier list).

Uniflex High Build Membrane paint has a low sheen and gives an orange peel effect. Coverage is approximately 1 litre per metre'. Uniflex is a product from the Unitex range of surface finishes. For that flat earth tone effect use a coating from the Unitex London Finishes range.

D.I.Y. Installation Of Solid Uni-Shape

Smaller Profiles: Window Profiles (Heads & Reveals), SillsSmaller stringers, keystones, quoinsArches & Arcs

What you’ll need before starting the job:

Materials Required

Unitex UPC 100 Putty

Cembond Masonry Sealant

Unitex London Finishes Earth tone effect or Uniflex Membrane Coating

Mechanical Fasteners

Nylon Anchors

Easy-drive Anchors

Tools Required

Tape Measure

Carpenter's Pencil

String Line

Level

Putty Knife

Sealant Gun

Drill

Tungsten Tip Saw & Mitre Box or Drop Saw (sharp and clean), check your angles and measure twice to cut once.

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