Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to all your questions about FlexStone’s faux-stone shower materials.
Get Your Questions Answered
What is FlexStone made of?
FlexStone is a composite paneling product that is designed for use in wet-wall bathroom applications. FlexStone is comprised of multiple layers of engineered thermoplastic, a printed image, and a lightweight PVC backing, all bonded using high heat and pressure.
Where can FlexStone be used?
FlexStone is well-suited for bathroom wet-wall applications, such tub and shower walls, splashes, skirts, trims, shampoo and soap shelves, cubbies and more. FlexStone is also and excellent choice for other projects, such as wall-cladding, wainscoting, window sills, etc.
Can FlexStone be used over existing tile?
Yes, FlexStone can be installed over existing tile. Remodel Trim Molding will be needed to allow for the extra thickness when installing over existing tile. Remodel Trim Molding is sold separately. If the existing tile has a glossy surface, be sure to rough it up with sand paper before installing FlexStone. This will result in better adhesion of FlexStone to the tile.
What kinds of backer materials can be used with FlexStone?
FlexStone can be installed over a variety of backer board substrates, including sheetrock, cement board, or even existing tile. Be sure to consult local building codes to determine the appropriate backer board.
What kind of tools do I need to install FlexStone?
Required:
- Tape Measure
- Utility Knife
- Caulk Gun
- Pencil or Marker
- Clamp
Helpful:
- Drill
- Paddle Bits
- Painter’s Tape
- Clean Cloth
- Denatured Alcohol
- Compass
What type of adhesive and silicone should I use to install FlexStone?
We strongly recommend using the Performance Pro adhesive and silicone included in your FlexStone kit.
Use the Performance Pro adhesive and silicone included in your FlexStone kit. The adhesive provides strong initial tack, easy application, and long-lasting flexibility—no bracing required. The PRO-3000 silicone is color-matched to FlexStone wall panels, mildew-resistant, and forms durable, waterproof bonds on a wide range of surfaces. Additional adhesive and silicone can be purchased separately at performanceproadhesives.com with fast shipping.
What should I use to clean FlexStone?
Care and maintenance of your FlexStone surround is easy using common household cleaners. Clean with a soft sponge or cloth, and mild nonabrasive cleaners. Often, warm soapy water and a sponge will be adequate for regular maintenance. FlexStone has no grout lines to clean, and is nonporous, so sealing is never required.
How thick is FlexStone?
FlexStone wall panels are ¼” thick.
Where can I purchase FlexStone?
FlexStone is available for retail and contractor sales at:
- Menards Home Centers
- HomeDepot.com
- Lowes.com
- Wayfair.com
Will I need to brace the FlexStone wall panels once I glue them to the walls?
Not if you’re using the included Performance Pro adhesive. Performance Pro is a very user-friendly adhesive with excellent “green strength” (initial tack). Bracing the wall panels is not necessary. It guns easily and cures with ideal elasticity, ensuring years of high performance. Unlike some adhesives that are hard to apply and cure brittle, Performance Pro allows the wall to flex with the natural expansion and contraction of your home.
Where is the flashing tape found in the FlexStone kit?
The flashing tape is located between the long trim pieces inside the kit box.
Do I need to fill the gap behind the bottom of the panel and the nailing flange of the shower base?
Yes, this 1/4″ gap can be filled using a strip cut from the FlexStone back panel with adhesive, or simply by applying a heavier bead of adhesive.
Where does the substrate end?
Leave at least a 1/4″ gap between the top of the shower base’s nailing flange and the bottom edge of the wallboard substrate.
Do I need to notch out the panel or trim for the shower base threshold?
Yes. A threshold template is included with the installation instructions. You’ll need to scribe and notch the wall panel so it rests flat on the shower base floor. If the vertical trim piece is placed directly on or just outside the threshold, notching the trim may not be necessary.
Does it matter which side of the panel I cut from?
Most installers prefer cutting with the image side up. However, when using a hole saw to cut holes for the shower head or valve, it’s best to cut from the back side.
Do I need to mortar set the FlexStone base?
If the subfloor or slab is flat and level, mortar is not required. If the surface is uneven, use a rapid-set thinnest or quick-set self-leveling compound to prepare the floor. Allow it to dry completely before installing the base.
How do I clean up excess silicone?
Use a soft white cloth and denatured alcohol to clean any excess silicone or adhesive.
What drain do I need to get?
We recommend either the Oatey 42150 or Sioux Chief 827-2B compression brass drain.
If I run out of adhesive mid-installation, is there an alternative?
Acceptable alternatives include Gorilla Heavy Duty Adhesive Ultimate, Gorilla Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive, or Loctite PL Premium MAX. Note that these are not true polyurethanes like Performance Pro and will cure harder, with less flexibility.
Can I drill or screw into the shower base threshold or trim for my shower door?
Yes, but always drill a pilot hole first and fill it with silicone before inserting the screw.
Do I need to add a brace under the caddy between the studs?
Yes. Installing a bottom plate between the studs will provide extra support.
What is the thickness of the panels for plumbing rough-in?
With adhesive, plan for an overall thickness of approximately 1/4″.
Can I mud and tape the substrate before installing the surround? Will the adhesive stick to drywall mud?
Yes. Just ensure the mud is fully dry and dust-free before applying the adhesive.
Will Performance Pro adhesive stick to RedGard?
Yes, Performance Pro adheres well to RedGard.
Can I use plywood as a substrate?
Yes, but it’s recommended to apply a waterproofing compound such as RedGard over the plywood first.
How much weight can the shower base support?
When properly installed, the FlexStone shower base is rated to hold up to 300 lbs.
Can I use a FlexStone base with tile walls?
Yes.
Can I use a tile base with FlexStone walls?
Yes.
Do the shower base or shelf have any texture to help prevent slipping?
Yes. Both the base and shelf have a built-in non-slip surface.
Should I use Performance Pro adhesive or silicone to install the wall panels?
Use Performance Pro adhesive to bond the wall panels to the substrate. Use Performance Pro silicone to seal joints—where wall panels meet each other, the base or tub, and where trim overlaps the panels.
Should I apply Performance Pro adhesive in beads or dots?
Performance Pro cures by air exposure. If applying in beads, do not seal the perimeter of the panel. Beads should be 3/8″ thick and spaced about 3″ apart. If applying in dots (dollops), they should be about the size of a Hershey’s Kiss and spaced 3–4″ apart.
Are FlexStone panels strong enough to support a shower door?
Yes, but install blocking or additional vertical studs at the door mounting points.
Are FlexStone panels strong enough to support safety grab bars?
Yes, as long as appropriate backing is installed at the desired mounting locations.
What type of drill bit should I use to pilot holes in the panels?
A standard wood drill bit will work well and won’t crack the panel. Masonry or glass bits are not necessary.
