Storage and Handling Information

The information contained within this page are requirements to ensure that applicable product warranties can be obtained and applies to Vitrabond®, VitraDual® and Ceramapanel®

Storage

  • Panels must be stored flat on pallets
  • If sheets are to be removed from pallets, these must be stored flat on bearers spaced no more than 300mm
  • For fibre cement panels with a coating, ensure the protective foam is in place between sheets when being stored
  • Pallets must be stored inside in dry conditions with covers retained on the pallets to protect from weather and any other works being carried out
  • Pallets must be staked no more than 2 high
  • Pallets must be stored in a way that allows ventilation to prevent condensation build-up
  • It is recommended that panels are only delivered when site is ready for imminent installation to protect against weather and other trades causing damage
  • Goods must not be stored in anyway that gives way to standing water on the goods (applies to Vitrafix® components too)

Handling

  • Panels must be lifted off a pallet/stack rather than being dragged
  • Panels must be lifted by 2 people
  • Panels must be carried in a vertical plane rather than horizontally
  • When unloading from a delivery vehicle, pallets must be unloaded in whole rather than breaking down and removing individual sheets off the vehicle
  • Unloading of pallets must be done using a suitable forklift, if a crane is to be used, ensure the wide straps are used (with appropriate protection) to spread the weight and that straps are placed to prevent slipping of the pallet/goods
  • Do not remove strapping etc until pallet has been unloaded from delivery vehicle
  • Aluminium panels with protective film must have the film removed within 30 days of installation.  The temporary protective film only has a life expectancy of 6 months and should be removed within this time, failure to remove may cause glue to cause issues with the paint surface

Transportation

  • Panels must be transported under waterproof covers on level pallets
  • Panel must be securely strapped to pallets to prevent movement in transportation
  • Ensure that straps for load to vehicle are not excessively tight causing damage to sheets – use of strapping corners must be used to distribute the forces