Installation Manuals and Guides

Can I install the Panels Myself?
If you have no prior experience in installing tiles or wall panels, we highly advise you to hire a qualified professional to achieve the best results.

Any qualified tiler can easily install our panels.

If you choose to install panels with LED lights, in Switzerland you might need the assistance of a qualified electrician.

Does Kandes Offer Installation Service?
Please reach out to our customer service team to find a certified Kandes Installer in your area.

Is it necessary to hire an electrician for the installation of 3D Panels with LED lighting?
If the installation involves fixed wiring or changes to existing circuits, Swiss law requires a licensed electrician authorized by ESTI.

For simple plug-in of led strips (3D Panels with LED integration option, such as LIGNEO or CASCADE), this may not be necessary—but we recommend consulting a professional to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

What types of walls are suitable for installation?
Panels can be installed on:

Drywall
Concrete
Plaster (if stable and smooth)
Wood (must be primed and secure)

What are the most important things to consider before starting the installation?
Plan thoroughly before starting the installation. Read the installation guide carefully and watch the video tutorials provided. Ensure all necessary tools and materials are prepared in advance.
Complete all other works beforehand. Electrical, plumbing, window frame installation, and similar works must be fully completed before you begin installing the panels.
Store panels correctly upon delivery. Keep them upright, exactly as they were positioned on the pallet. Let them acclimatise for at least 24 hours in the room where they will be installed.
Check the wall conditions. Ensure the wall meets all surface requirements as outlined in the installation guide.
Measure and plan ahead. Carry out all necessary measurements before starting the work. Lay out the panels on the floor to plan the composition, allowing for 1–3 mm gaps between each panel.
Skirting board. If the wall does not have a skirting board, make sure to install a temporary guide. This will support panels' weight during installation. Once the adhesive has dried and panels are securely fixed to the wall the temporary guide can be removed.

What paints are suitable for painting the 3D Panels?
Any paint suitable for gypsum surfaces can be used. For best results, we recommend acrylic paints applied with a professional spray gun for an even finish.

Always prime the panels beforehand to ensure optimal paint adhesion.

What adhesive should be used to fix panels to the wall?
For the Priming of the walls we advise using CERESIT CT 17 PRIMER or similar.

As an adhesive to fix panels to the wall we advise using KNAUF Perlfix or similar.

To fill in the seams between panels we recommend using Rigips VARIO or similar.

Can the Panels be cut to size?
Yes, the panels can be cut to size using fine-tooth saw.

After cutting the panel gently sand the edges using fine 600 sandpaper.

How big should be the gap between panels?
We recommend using 1 mm tile spacers during installation. This ensures minimal seams and allows for a clean, refined finish when covering the joints in the final steps.

What tools and materials are required for installation?
You’ll need the following:

Laser or water level – for precise alignment
Notched trowel – to evenly apply adhesive
Construction syringe or silicone spatula – for applying grout in tight spaces
Coarse sandpaper – to smooth panel edges before mounting
Measuring tape – for accurate wall dimensions
Saw with straight teeth or angle grinder – for cutting panels around obstacles
Mixing bucket – for preparing adhesive
Gypsum adhesive – formulated for optimal bonding
Grout – for filling joints between panels
Primer – compatible with your final paint
Paint sprayer or brush – to evenly apply paint

Are there any safety precautions I should follow?
Wear gloves during handling and installation to protect your hands. Work in a well-ventilated space, especially when using adhesives, grout, and paint.

How can I repair or replace a damaged panel?
For minor damage:

Fill dents or scratches with gypsum joint compound, sand smooth, and repaint

For severe damage:

Carefully remove the damaged panel
Smooth the wall, then install and finish a new panel with grout and paint

How hard-wearing are the panels?
When installed and maintained properly, Kandes gypsum panels are hard-wearing. They’re made from high-quality plaster, a material used in construction for centuries.