Choosing the Right Substrate for FLOAT Concrete Wall Panels

Whether applied to a feature wall, façade, or ceiling, FLOAT concrete wall panels rely on one crucial factor: the right substrate. While these lightweight panels (just 13.6 kg/m²) are highly versatile, their success depends on a surface that is flat, stable, and properly prepared.

Behind every FLOAT installation lies a hidden foundation – materials that quietly support the structure while enabling the panels to perform beautifully for years to come. From interiors to exteriors, here’s where FLOAT panels find their perfect match.

For Interiors:
Wood-based boards like MDF, plywood, and OSB offer easy installation and dependable support, ideal for residential feature walls or retail spaces. Similarly, plasterboard provides a consistent and stable surface, making it a go-to choice for homes and offices.

For Exteriors:
Fibre cement boards are built for the outdoors, handling moisture and weather while maintaining strength. Top-hat battens, made from steel or aluminium, streamline alignment for large-scale commercial facades. And brick walls – when properly prepped – offer classic strength and stability.

Render & Concrete:
Rendered walls, skim coats, and raw concrete surfaces bring smooth, adhesive-friendly backing for both internal and external designs. For moisture-prone areas, render-primed surfaces offer additional protection.

Painted Surfaces & Ceilings:
Even stable painted walls can support FLOAT panels, making retrofits fast and effective. On ceilings, FLOAT expands the design envelope, utilising mechanical fixings such as split battens and retainer clips to create immersive, modern environments.

Whichever route you choose, the key is a stable base. When the foundation is right, FLOAT’s panels do the rest, seamlessly elevating your space with contemporary texture, bold form, and lasting impact.