Show Grout the Way Out

Install Mermaid panels without any need for tile, grout, seal, or trim.

Easy as 1-2-3-4

01

Prep 

We lay out everything 
you need for installation, including tools and materials.

02

Snap

Our tongue-and-groove panels snap together, making installation a 
snap, too.

03

Stick

Our adhesive makes it easy to put Mermaid right over your existing surface.

04

Seal

Our color-coordinated sealant helps keep the water out and the beauty in.

Installation Preparation 
& Requirements

Begin your project by inspecting your panels carefully for damage and verifying they are the correct size. Observe all local plumbing and building codes.

01 Gather Required Tools & Materials

Mermaid can be installed with standard woodworking tools. Download our installation guide for a complete list of tools and materials.

02 Prepare Existing Wall Surfaces

Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth so they are free of all contaminants and let dry. If installing over old tile, remove any loose tiles and rough up glossy tiles with a belt sander.

03 Remove Rough Plumbing & Fitting

Turn off hot and cold water supplies. Remove faucet handles, escutcheons, filler spouts and any other fixtures.

Dry Fitting the Tongue-and-Groove Panel System

Our patented tongue-and-groove panels let you estimate a rough "dry" fit for each panel on the wall. Remember to measure twice and cut once before you trim, place, and add adhesive.

01 Dry Fit Back Wall Panel(s)

Mark the seam or joint locations for later adhesive reference. For multiple panels, install the groove profile first. Keep a 1/8” gap from the tub deck, shower base,  and walls for every panel installed.

02 Dry Fit Wing Panel(s)

Notice, one side of the panel has a bullnose edge that can be installed on the outside edge of the shower to give a finished look without wall trim.

03 Mark & Drill Plumbing Locations

Mark then drill where shower valves or heads come through the side panel using a hole saw large enough for the opening but small enough 
to be covered by the trim plates.

Panel Adhesive Application

Our high-quality adhesive allows you to quickly (and permanently) install our panels over any existing subwall including gypsum, fiberboard, cement, plaster, and even tile.

01 Apply Back Wall Panel Adhesive

Working with one panel at a time, apply one strip of panel adhesive vertically down the two sides of each panel and one row of adhesive horizontally across the top and bottom. This is a thick adhesive, so try an electric caulking gun for easier application. 

02 Install Back Wall Panel(s)

Using suction cups, place the first rear panel onto the wall using the previously marked seam and joint locations for alignment assistance. Press firmly over the entire surface to ensure firm contact of adhesive. If additional rear panels are needed, place the second rear panel and leave a small gap to allow the tongue-and-groove to snap together.

03 Install Wing Panel(s)

Using suction cups, place the first rear panel onto the wall using the previously marked seam and joint locations for alignment assistance. Press firmly over the entire surface to ensure firm contact of adhesive. If additional rear panels are needed, place the second rear panel and leave a small gap to allow the tongue-and-groove to snap together.

04 Finishing And Trim (if needed)

Our designs can be trimmed and fitted using the bullnose edge to finish around windows, niches and exposed tile. When using our shower or tub kits, consider purchasing additional trim from your local hardware store.

Color Coordinated 
Sealant Application

Once your panels are up, it’s time to seal them with our reliable and long-lasting (and antifungal) sealant.

01 Apply Color Coordinated Sealant

Once all panels are securely in place and set, apply the sealant to all corners, seams between panels, and gaps between bottom panels. Wipe any excess adhesive from the panel with denatured alcohol.

02 Allow Sealant To Cure

Allow panels to cure for 24 hours before installing any shower accessories.

 

View Resources

Recessed Niche Installation

Corner Shelf Installation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mermaid?

Mermaid is an innovative panel system for wet applications, such as tub and shower walls, Unlike tile and grout, Mermaid panels don't need to be sealed, are easy to clean, and are offered in a number of beautiful designs. 

Why Mermaid?

Mermaid makes it easier than ever to provide consumer driven designs in a water-proof solution that is functionally beautiful, quick and easy to install, and offers the look of luxury at an economical price. EASY installation. EASIER maintenance.

What material are Mermaid panels made of?

Patented wall panel system consisting of two panels made of High Pressure Decorative Laminate bonded to a water-proof core (Wood Plastic Composite; WPC). Panels can feature a flat edge, tongue/groove edge, and a decorative bullnose edge.

What type of adhesive should I use to install Mermaid panels?

Wilsonart® Adhesive and Panel Adhesive are provided in kits, and for sale in case quantities.