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How to use VJ panel behind vanity?

Looking at installing James Hardie Hardie Groove VJ panelling behind the vanity.

Do I need to waterproof this and if so is it better to lay cement sheet on the wall first and waterproof then lay the hardie groove on top or can we just lay hardie groove and waterproof and paint afterwards?

TIA

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Accepted answers

JacobZ

Hi @throatgoat,

Generally, these rules are designed to account for the worst-case scenario, which in this case would be the tap failing or the basin overflowing.

My understanding of the installation manual is that the back edge of the vessel needs to be 75mm from the wall, so that in the event of it overflowing, water can spill down and away from the wall. I may be wrong, but it looks like you've hooked your tape onto the back edge of the basin.

If the back edge is 75mm away from the wall, you would be fine, but if the back edge is pressed against the wall, you would not be.

I hope this clears things up.

Jacob

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MitchellMc

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news here @throatgoat, but unfortunately, Hardie Groove VJ panelling is not suitable for wet areas. These areas are typically defined as within a shower recess and also behind basins and vanities, where regular water splash is expected.

I have double-checked this directly with James Hardie Technical to be certain, and they have confirmed that Hardie Groove is not approved for use in these locations, even if it is painted or waterproofed. Because of that, installing a cement sheet first and then fixing Hardie Groove over the top would not resolve the issue, as the finished surface itself is still not suitable for a wet area.

In this situation, you would need to use an appropriate splashback behind the sink, such as tiles or another compliant waterproof wall lining, to meet manufacturer requirements and avoid potential moisture-related problems down the track.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

throatgoat

Is it then suitable to use easycraft primed vj?

https://www.bunnings.com.au/easycraft-2400-x-1200-x-9mm-easyvj100-wall-lining-primed-wet-area-interior-umr-mdf-e0_p0166124

MitchellMc

Hi @throatgoat,

The Easycraft installation manual states: Wet area products cannot be installed in direct splash zones AS 3740 - 2021 should be reviewed to ensure compliance.

However, there is an allowance if the sink is more than 75mm from the panel: Vessels such as freestanding baths, sinks, basins must be a min of 75mm away from the wall for Easycraft panels to be installed behind them. If the vessel is within 75mm from the wall then Easycraft panels must be installed with a min 150mm clearance from the top of the vessel, this requirement includes fixed baths, underbench sinks.

Mitchell

throatgoat

so I am in the clear here if i have interpreted that correct. I have over 100mm clearance so fine to install?

JacobZ

Hi @throatgoat,

Generally, these rules are designed to account for the worst-case scenario, which in this case would be the tap failing or the basin overflowing.

If the back edge is 75mm away from the wall, you would be fine, but if the back edge is pressed against the wall, you would not be.

I hope this clears things up.

Jacob

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