Frequently Asked Questions

I have tried to make this web site as informative as possible for you. After all, if you don't have all the information how can you make a decision?

If you have browsed through my web site and you still can't find answers to your questions then take a look at this page. If the answer isn't here then I encourage you to contact us. I never consider any question dumb or silly.

 

Why are your panels cheaper than elsewhere? Are they made overseas?

The panels are sent to you direct from the factories so that keeps prices low plus I'm endeavouring to "work smarter" to keep my other costs to a minimum. I'm proud to say the panels are Australian made.

 

What are the panels made from?

They are made from an aluminium alloy. This means they won't rust.

 

How big are the panels?

If you click on the little thumbnail images you will be taken to a page that tells you the sizes each design is made in. It also gives you a larger picture of the pattern.

 

I live miles away from you. How can I get your panels?

They can be sent anywhere in the world. I use a network of freight companies. Most usually TNT and Fastway.

 

Would I be paying freight costs all the way from Western Australia?

No. Pressed metal is not made in Western Australia. I organise for it all to be sent from the factories I deal with in the Eastern States. Freight is not usually expensive because we are sending a relatively light-weight product.

 

Can you send them with Australia Post?

No, they exceed the permissible size allowed by Australia Post.

 

We live on a farm property so it would be hard to find us - what should we do about delivery?

It's probably better to deliver your order to someone in the nearest town centre. If you have friends or family in a more easily accessible place then it is preferable to deliver it to them. Most usually it is cheaper to send freight to a more populated area too.

 

Can the panels be sent to a post office or post office box number?

No, the freight companies refuse to do this.

 

Do we have to paint the panels because we like the shiny metal appearance for our project?

All the panels should be painted. If you like the shiny metal appearance then you need to buy a paint that mimics that effect. The panels should not be left as is because they are not considered a finished product in that state.

 

What sort of paint is best to use?

Oil based, enamel paint is best. Generally, acrylic paints don't give a tough enough finish. Depending on which factory the panels are sourced from they may, or may not, need a coat of etch primer before painting.

 

How difficult is it to install the panels? I'm not a builder.

Many of my clients are home handymen and they manage quite well. I have detailed fitting instructions and I'm always here if you want to phone me or email me with queries. If you employ someone to install your panels make sure they are good with finishing off. You don't want someone who will "slap" the panels together. Choose a good builder, a cabinet maker or a shop fitter.

 

Do the panels butt up to each other?

No, they are made to lap over each other. The patterns then continue on seamlessly.

 

What is the difference between the ceiling panels and the walls panels?

They are made from exactly the same aluminium product. Many of the ceiling panels can be used on walls but you wouldn't use the wall panels on a ceiling because the wall panels have one-way vertical-style designs.

 

Can the panels be used as a splash back?

Yes. However, choice of the pattern is critical. Generally for a project such as a splash back it is preferable to use a pattern with a small repeat. Panels with large patterns can look spoilt in the places where they need to be trimmed such as at the end of the bench top. For splash back projects you need to seal the area where the panels meet the bench top.

 

Is there a minimum order quantity?

For overseas customers 5 panels is the minimum quantity. It is simply not viable to send less than five panels. For Australian customers the minimum is generally 3 panels. However if you want less than three it will be possible but with a surcharge attached.