Can you help me with a bead board/wainscoting problem?

Question

The "contractor" who remodeled my bathroom did a horrible job! The tile floor was redone 5 times before it was right. Each time he returned he scuffed up the molding, walls, etc...I just wanted him out of my house for good. As the weather got cold, the bead board began to buckle and then the buckle went away. However it left behind gaps between the panels. When the weather warmed and therefore the walls warmed up, the gaps closed up. Is there anything I can do so I don't have to look at this during the cold months? Is there a way to fix the gaps? I won't call him back to fix it because he'll screw something else up, so don't bother suggesting that. Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

The only permanent way I can think of is to remove both from the wall. I don't (and probably, neither do you) know how he fixed them, but I would imagine he used some kind of builders contact-adhesive. To remove them, you'll need to use solvent.

Once you have removed them, clean the backs (the only sure way to remove any adhesive is to scrape them clean) then use flexible wood adhesive to fix the parts together (use clamps while the adhesive sets).

When the adhesive is set, seal the back with varnish or something similar and re-fix using (again) builder's contact-adhesive, following the instructions carefully (it's solvent based therfore flammable and could cause respiratory problems).

I know it sounds like a lot of work, but... have faith, you can do it.
Good luck

Answer 2

i think it buckles because he didnt even out the glue on the back of the bead board....other than removing it and installing it right u can do a quick fix and add molding at the joints and nail them every 2 inches and paint them and this will hold the joints.......but i would consider taking it off and doing it the correct way....

lic. gen. contractor