How to Install Neowall WPC Slat Wall: Complete UK Installation Guide

Neowall WPC Slat Wall systems offer a modern, durable way to upgrade both exterior and interior walls across UK homes and commercial spaces. Designed to withstand British weather while delivering a premium architectural finish, correct installation is essential to ensure long-term performance, ventilation, and visual consistency.

This complete UK installation guide explains how to install Neowall Slat Wall correctly, covering preparation, tools, subframes, spacing, fixing systems, trims, and both vertical and horizontal installation methods, based directly on Neowall’s official guidance.

Browse the full range here: Slatwall Panels.

What Is Neowall WPC Slat Wall?

Neowall WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) Slat Wall is a profiled cladding system designed to create a contemporary slatted appearance. It is commonly used for:

• External house façades
• Garden rooms and outbuildings
• Feature walls and elevations
• Commercial buildings and offices

The system combines wood fibres and polymers, giving it resistance to moisture, rot, insects, and warping, ideal for the UK climate.

Why Proper Installation Matters (Especially in the UK)

Although WPC Slat Wall is engineered for durability, installation quality directly affects performance.

Correct installation will:

• Handle UK rain, frost, and temperature changes
• Prevent water ingress behind the cladding
• Maintain airflow and reduce moisture build-up
• Preserve structural integrity and appearance
• Ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations

Poor installation can lead to expansion issues, trapped moisture, and premature wear.

Tools & Materials Required

Before starting, Neowall recommends reviewing all installation instructions fully and preparing tools in advance.

Essential Tools

• Electric drill
• Circular saw or fine-tooth saw
• Tape measure
• Guiding ruler or straight edge
• Spirit level

Materials Needed

• Neowall WPC Slat Wall boards (view options: Slatwall Panels)
• Joists (subframe battens)
• Starter clips (recommended: Outdoor Slatwall Starter Clip & Screw Set (Pack of 50))
• Stainless steel screws
• Edge trims and corner trims

Step 1: Site Preparation & Planning

Surface Requirements

The installation surface must be:

• Clean, flat, and structurally sound
• Built to comply with UK building regulations
• Suitable for mechanical fixing

Neowall specifies that Slat Wall must never be installed directly onto uneven or unstable surfaces.

Planning Ahead

• Measure total wall area (width × height)
• Calculate material quantities with allowance for cuts
• Plan board direction (vertical or horizontal) before starting

Step 2: Understanding Expansion & Contraction

WPC materials expand and contract with temperature changes.

UK Best Practice

• Expansion is most noticeable in warm weather
• Install boards shortly after cutting
• Avoid leaving boards in direct sunlight before fixing
• Do not force boards tightly together

Neowall highlights expansion control as critical to preventing deformation over time.

Step 3: Installing the Subframe (Joists)

The subframe provides structural support and airflow behind the cladding.

Joist Installation Rules

• Joists must be fixed at 400mm centres
• Use expansion screws for fixing
• Ensure joists are level and plumb
• Maintain consistent spacing around windows and doors

Both vertical and horizontal layouts follow the same joist spacing principle.

Step 4: Vertical Slat Wall Installation

Vertical Installation Process

1. Fix joists vertically at 400mm centres
2. Install starter clips at the bottom of each joist (use: Outdoor Slatwall Starter Clip & Screw Set)
3. Slot the first slat board into the starter clip
4. Fix one screw at the end of each board
5. Continue upward, ensuring alignment remains straight

Important Notes

• Keep a joint next to window edges (recommended 50mm spacing)
• Cut boards neatly at openings
• Reinforce board connections at least every 30mm

Step 5: Horizontal Slat Wall Installation

Horizontal Installation Process

1. Fix joists vertically at 400mm centres
2. Install starter clips at the base (use: Outdoor Slatwall Starter Clip & Screw Set)
3. Slot boards horizontally onto clips
4. Fix one screw at the board ends
5. Continue upward, maintaining even spacing

Key Differences

• Extra joists may be required around windows
• Double joists are recommended at board joints
• Ensure consistent spacing at the top and bottom edges

Step 6: Windows, Doors & Cut-Outs

Best Practice

• Install additional joists around window frames
• Use Styrofoam or backing support where required
• Cut boards precisely to maintain clean lines
• Reinforce joints around openings

Step 7: Trims, Corners & Finishing

Trims complete the installation and protect exposed edges.

Trim Options

• Edge banding
• L-shaped trims
• Joint trims for board connections

Corners

• External corners: Use L-trims or dual trims
• Internal corners: Trim optional, panels can meet cleanly

Trims should be fixed with stainless steel screws for durability.

Step 8: Rooflines & Top Edges

At rooflines:

• Install trims beneath the roof edge
• Secure trims using screws
• Maintain clean alignment

Neowall notes that trims are not always required for internal corners, depending on design preference.

Common Slat Wall Installation Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect joist spacing
• Ignoring expansion gaps
• Poor alignment at the windows
• Blocking airflow behind panels
• Using non-stainless fixings

Avoiding these mistakes ensures long-term performance in UK conditions.

Maintenance After Installation

One of the biggest advantages of Neowall Slat Wall is low maintenance.

Ongoing Care

• Rinse with water to remove dust
• Clean with mild detergent if required
• Avoid harsh chemicals

No painting, sealing, or staining is required.

Why Choose Neowall Slat Wall for UK Projects?

Neowall Slat Wall systems are:

• Designed for British weather
• Moisture- and rot-resistant
• Visually modern and architectural
• Suitable for residential and commercial use

When installed correctly, they deliver a long-lasting, premium façade solution. Shop the range: Slatwall Panels.

FAQs: Neowall Slat Wall Installation (UK)

Can Neowall Slat Wall be installed vertically and horizontally?

Yes. Neowall Slat Wall supports both vertical and horizontal installation methods, provided joist spacing and fixing guidelines are followed.

What joist spacing is required for Slat Wall?

Joists should be installed at approximately 400mm centres to provide adequate support and ventilation.

Is Neowall Slat Wall suitable for UK weather?

Yes. The WPC construction is designed to resist moisture, temperature changes, and rot, making it suitable for UK climates.

Do I need expansion gaps for Slat Wall?

Yes. Allowing for expansion is essential to prevent warping or movement, especially during warmer temperatures.

Can Slat Wall be installed around windows and doors?

Yes, with additional joists and careful cutting to maintain structural support and clean edges.

Final Thoughts

Correct installation is key to unlocking the full performance and visual impact of Neowall WPC Slat Wall. By following this UK-focused guide and Neowall’s official recommendations, homeowners and professionals can achieve a durable, low-maintenance, and modern wall finish that stands up to British weather for years to come.

Ready to start your project? Explore Slatwall Panels and don’t forget your installation essentials: Starter Clip & Screw Set.