How to install VJ panels for outdoor kitchen?

[Peterershaw]

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am wanting to install VJ boards on our deck as I have an outdoor kitchen bbq being installed. Should I remove the existing fibre cement panels or put over the top? If I do put on top should I cut back the existing beading on the fibre cement panels so I get a flat finish. I am looking to remove the skirting board but do I need to do that at the top as well? I assume I will need to remove the window frame to have the VJ fit behind it. Will I need to use a weather resistant Vj panel as it is outside but it is under cover and well protected 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Peterershaw,

I'd suggest having a good look at the Easycraft - Product Fact Sheet & Installation Guidelines, as it shows details on how to install these products both directly to studs and over existing materials. 

I would be more inclined to remove the sheets, but you may think differently.

Generally speaking, it is easier to achieve a clean finish if you remove the existing sheeting and start with a clean slate. 

Most VJ sheet products, including our EasyVJ products from Easycraft Wall & Ceiling Linings, require expansion gaps at their perimeter and where they butt into things like windows. If you remove the existing sheeting, these expansion gaps can be concealed by the window architrave, skirting and a cornice or scotia at the ceiling and wall junctions. If you were to install the sheeting over the top, you would need to add additional trims to conceal these gaps, which can start to look busy and a bit messy quite quickly.  

By removing the existing sheeting, you would also open up the wall cavity so your electrician can rough in cabling with greater ease, which I am sure they will appreciate and will likely make their work cheaper for you.

Being an outdoor area, you would need to use the weather-resistant version of your panelling. I'd recommend the easyVJ100 Semi Exterior Wall Lining.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[Peterershaw]

Thanks Jacob. I am thinking I will take your suggestion and remove the old wall. I was looking at the easy craft products and the installation guide was very helpful. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Peterershaw,

Sounds like a plan.

Let me know if you need anything along the way, and don't forget to upload some finished photos. It would be fantastic to see it once it is done.

Jacob

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Peterershaw,

I've just noted that we haven't discussed setbacks on your BBQ from the wall and VJ panel. It's exceptionally important with a back-to-wall BBQ that all setbacks are maintained as per the BBQ recommendations. The VJ panel mentioned above is a compressed hardwood and considered a combustible material. You might find that your BBQ installation instructions recommend a certain setback at the rear from combustible materials. If that's the case and the wall is too close, you might need to consider having compressed cement sheet at the rear of the BBQ in that location.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Peterershaw]

Hi Mitchell that is helpful and after the feedback from Jacob I started looking at the hardie axon fibre cement product to be the cladding. My preference would be to use a traditional VJ ( grooves closer together than the axon) looking cladding that is suitable for outdoors but under cover. The installation of the cupboard’s and BBQ is being completed by an outdoor kitchen company and there is a panel that is being fitted behind the BBQ. I currently have fibre cement on the wall now but not the VJ look. Which of the fibre cement products can you suggest that has a traditional VJ look is suitable for my situation. Also I don’t believe I need to sheet the complete wall top to bottom but only enough so it goes behind the bench top level. So I would like to get the product in 3600 lengths so I can cut into 1800 sheets. Appreciate your thoughts the feedback has been very helpful. 
Peter 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Peterershaw,

What is the panel that is being fitted behind the BBQ?

Axon has the grooves spaced 133mm apart. The Easycraft VJ panel has the grooves spaced 100mm apart. The only cement sheeting I can find that is close to the Easycraft panels is the James Hardie 2700 x 1200 x 7.5mm 3.24m² Hardie Groove Lining. However, they are designed for interior use.

Mitchell

[Peterershaw]

It’s a heat shield and ventilation behind the BBQ. Regarding the easycraft panel I can’t justify the price difference so will do the Axon board. I will be placing orders for delivery and start the wall project this weekend.