Have a Question? Let’s Solve It Together


From installation tips to sales inquiries, we are dedicated to helping our partners and customers. Browse our FAQs or contact our technical team for personalized assistance

Part 1｜Installation Q&A

Q1. What are the basic requirements for the wall and subfloor before installation?


The shower base must be perfectly level, and the three surrounding walls should be plumb, square, and structurally sound. The substrate surface must be dry, clean, and free of dust or grease. For timber/plywood subfloors, waterproofing treatment is highly recommended before proceeding.

Q2. Do the wall panels and adhesives need to "acclimatize" before installation?
Yes. We recommend placing the SMC wall panels and adhesives in the installation environment at room temperature for at least 24 hours. This ensures optimal bonding performance and dimensional stability of the materials.

Q3. What is the correct installation sequence for SMC wall panels?
The standard professional sequence is: install the Back Panel first, followed by the Side Panels. This method ensures the best corner alignment and gap control.

Q4. Why must both "Double-Sided Tape" and "Structural Adhesive" be used together?
Industrial-grade double-sided tape is applied to the back of the panel along with structural adhesive.

  • Double-sided tape: Provides immediate initial tack to hold the panel in position and prevents sliding or rebounding while the adhesive is wet.
  • Structural adhesive: Provides the long-term, high-strength structural bond.
    Using both ensures the panels stay flat, stable, and crack-free.

Q5. Where exactly should the tape and adhesive be applied?

  • Double-sided tape: Applied near the edges of the panel back or key support areas to prevent slipping.
  • Structural adhesive: Distributed in dots or beads across the remaining surface area.
  • Pro Tip: Do not completely seal the perimeter with adhesive immediately, as this allows air to reach the structural adhesive for a proper cure.

Q6. Is a Mortar Bed required under the shower base?

  • If the subfloor is perfectly level, the base can be installed directly with precision shimming.
  • If the subfloor is uneven, we strongly recommend a 1–2 inch (25–50 mm) mortar bed to provide full support, ensure stability, and prevent any flexing or "bouncing" when stepped on.

Q7. Should there be a gap between the wall substrate and the shower base flange?
Yes. It is recommended to leave a 1/4" (6–12 mm) gap between the bottom edge of the wallboard substrate and the top of the base flange. This prevents capillary action (wicking). A continuous bead of high-quality silicone must be applied at the panel-to-base joint.

Q8. When should holes for faucets and shower heads be drilled?
All measurements and cutting for plumbing fixtures (valves, shower heads) should be completed before the panels are fixed to the wall. This avoids the risk of damage or difficult rework after the panels are bonded.

Q9. How should the product be maintained, and what are common installation failures?

  • Maintenance: Use mild household cleaners and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that can dull the finish.
  • Common Failure Causes: Contaminated substrates (dust/oil), using the wrong type of adhesive, uneven wall surfaces, or omitting double-sided tape during the initial positioning.

Can Kostone SMC wall panels be cut to size?

Can Kostone SMC wall panels be cut to size?

Yes. Kostone SMC wall panels can be cut, either on site or pre-cut at the factory. Both options are fully supported.

Typical use cases include, but are not limited to:

● Pre-cutting openings for wall niches

● Adjusting dimensions when project sizes are non-standard

● Trimming standard molded panels to fit specific site conditions

If factory pre-cutting is required based on standard molded sizes,

Kostone can process the cutting according to customer drawings.

The cutting charge is USD 2 per cut.

Factory pre-cutting helps reduce on-site labor and improves installation efficiency and overall finish quality.

Can colors or textures be customized?

Yes, customization is available, but color and texture customization follow different processes and cost structures.

① Color Customization

Colors can be fully customized.

The standard process includes:

● The customer provides a color reference (color chip or physical sample)

● The factory performs a color matching process

● Samples are produced and sent to the customer

● Final approval is required before mass production

Color customization does not affect the structural performance of the product and is suitable for project orders.

② Texture / Surface Pattern Customization

Textures can also be customized, but at a higher cost and longer lead time.

● Texture customization typically requires new mold development

● Kostone can assist with mold design and production

● Typical lead time is 2–3 months, depending on complexity

● Mold cost varies based on texture design and mold size and is quoted case by case

Texture customization is therefore recommended for medium to large-scale or long-term projects.