Autex Acoustics Mirage™ Install Instructions
General guide for experienced tradespersons installing Mirage™ panels in common wall and ceiling applications.
Manufacturer's Documents
Autex recommends familiarity with product and installation procedures. Relevant documents include:
- Mirage™ Data Sheet
- Mirage™ Manufacturer's Guarantee
- Mirage™ Install Instructions
- SpinFix™ Product Guide
Copies are available upon request or from the Autex Acoustics website.
Considerations for Devices Generating Heat
High temperatures can be detrimental to wall and ceiling linings. Situations include:
- Radiant heaters
- Lighting
- Heat pumps
- Reverse cycle air conditioners
- Solid fuel stoves
Refer to current documents for NCC provisions and relevant standards (AS 2918, AS 5601, AS/NZS 3000). Ensure appliances do not cause Mirage surface temperature to rise above 80°C.
Inspection Before Installation
Check materials are as ordered, free from damage or faults, and labels are correct. Ensure all required sheets are from the same batch to avoid colour variation. Report any variations to Autex Acoustics before commencing.
Transportation, Storage & Handling
Handle Mirage with care to avoid damage, delamination, or distortion. Store indoors, dry, and protected from crushing. Do not accept damaged product; note condition on freight documents and contact Autex Acoustics. Store on a flat, clean, dry surface.
On-site Panel Care
Mirage panels are semi-rigid and can be creased or damaged if bent, stored improperly, or dropped on corners/edges. Use clean cloth gloves to avoid soiling.
Substrate Preparation
Before commencing, tape all joins, gaps, and cracks in the wall/ceiling substrate to prevent dust ingress. Ensure surfaces are prepared to a minimum Level 3 finish. Very porous surfaces may need sealing. Gloss/semi-gloss finishes should be lightly sanded and cleaned. All surfaces must be clean, dust-free, and dry.
General Mirage Installation
Install according to these instructions, specifications, and customer requirements. Seek clarification for conflicting information. Plan installation before cutting. Panels are supplied squared and chamfered. Trim only along outer edges. Perform a 'dry fit' first. "Measure twice and cut once" is recommended.
Installation Using Adhesives
Follow adhesive manufacturer's instructions for spread rates, tack-off times, and application. Clean spills immediately. Progressively check for appearance, quality, and adhesion. Notify Autex Acoustics of any variations.
Recommended Adhesive
Autex Acoustics recommends contact-type or high grab MS polymer adhesive. Consult local suppliers with product samples and substrate specifications. It is the installer's responsibility to ensure adhesive and substrate suitability.
Installation Using SpinFix™
SpinFix™ is an adhesive-free system using recycled PET clips. Follow SpinFix installation guidelines.
Install Mirage Walls
Install on a clean, flat, prepared wall. Panels have a directional sticker; ensure all panels are installed in the same direction. Contact spray adhesive or high grab MS polymer adhesive is recommended. Install each panel individually, applying adhesive and rolling.
Adhere to substrate using contact spray adhesive
Apply adhesive to panel and substrate. Tack-off correctly. Fit panel, smoothing towards joins. Roll entire panel with a wide roller (100-150 mm) for adequate transfer and bond. Small wallpaper/vinyl rollers are not suitable.
Adhere to substrate using high grab MS polymer adhesive
Use a caulking gun for MS polymer adhesive (min. 6 mm bead). Apply straight, continuous beads at max 600 mm intervals. Outermost beads 30-50 mm from edge. Apply anti-pillowing beads. Install panel before adhesive skins. Minimize time between application and installation. Press panel firmly, especially at edges, using a wide roller (100-150 mm) for adequate contact. Note: Insufficient pressure risks detachment. If wet grab strength is insufficient, increase bead size or reduce spacing. Temporary bracing may be needed.
Figure 1 Description: Illustrates adhesive bead placement for wall installation. Shows panel dimensions (e.g., 1200mm, 2400mm/2700mm) and recommended adhesive bead spacing (30-50mm from edges, 600mm max intervals for main beads, with anti-pillowing beads). The diagram shows a vertical panel orientation.
Install Mirage Ceilings
Mirage can be installed to flat ceilings or direct-fixed to battens. For overhead installation, high grab MS polymer adhesive is recommended. Visible mechanical fixings are not recommended; consult Autex Acoustics for alternatives.
Fix to ceiling substrate using adhesives
Install on a clean, flat ceiling substrate. Install each panel individually, applying adhesive and rolling. Additional battens may be required. Follow adhesive manufacturer's instructions. Use a caulking gun for MS adhesive (min. 6 mm bead). Apply a continuous bead around the perimeter (30-50 mm gap at corners, 30-50 mm from edges). Apply internal beads at max 300 mm intervals, finishing 100 mm from perimeter beads. Install before adhesive skins. Minimize time between application and installation. Press panel firmly using a wide roller (100-150 mm). Note: Insufficient pressure risks detachment. Temporary bracing or tape may be needed.
Figure 2 Description: Illustrates adhesive bead placement for ceiling installation. Shows panel dimensions (e.g., 1200mm, 2400mm/2700mm, 1220mm) and recommended adhesive bead spacing (30-50mm from edges, 300mm max intervals for internal beads, 100mm from perimeter beads). The diagram shows a horizontal panel orientation.
Fix to battens using adhesives
Ensure batten surfaces are flat and flush. Battens should be min. 35 mm wide, with centres max. 300 mm. Apply a continuous bead of MS adhesive along the batten (min. 6 mm diameter), leaving 30-50 mm gap from the panel edge. Allow 35 mm fixing area for panel edges, potentially requiring double-battening. Install before adhesive skins. Minimize time between application and installation. Use a wide roller (100-150 mm) for adequate contact. Temporary bracing may be needed.
Diagram Description: Shows batten layout for wall and ceiling installation, indicating panel dimensions, batten width, spacing, and adhesive placement relative to edges and joins. Includes an example of double-battening at joins.
Cutting Mirage
Use a circular saw with a narrow, 80-tooth blade for smooth cuts. Duct tape the saw's shoe to prevent scratching. Trial cuts are recommended. Alternatively, use a steady hand with a sharp utility knife or a reverse-toothed high carbon steel jigsaw blade for curved cuts.
Fixtures
Remove cover plates, light fittings, and other fixtures before work. Replace them plumb, square, and true to line upon completion. Note: Electrical, plumbing, and fire safety work must be done by qualified persons.
Penetrations
Penetrations for plumbing, electrical, etc., can reduce fire and acoustic performance. Avoid where possible, especially for FRL or acoustically sensitive areas. Use only appropriately rated proprietary sealants and fittings. Consult a qualified person if unsure.
Replace
Replace any damaged or marked elements.
On completion
Ensure work is secure, smooth, and free of defects (air bubbles, wrinkles, gaps, stains). Clean adjoining surfaces of adhesive. Remove debris and waste from site.
Service & Contact Information
For more information, contact your Autex Acoustics account manager or visit autexglobal.com.
Autex Acoustics Locations:
- New Zealand: 702-718 Rosebank Road, Private Bag 19988, Avondale 1746, Auckland. T 0800 428 839, T +64 9 828 9179. autexacoustics.co.nz
- Australia: 285 Swan Street, Richmond, VIC 3121. T 1800 678 160, T +61 3 9450 6700. autexacoustics.com.au
- United Kingdom: Unit J4, Lowfields Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 9DA. T +44 0 142 241 8899. autexacoustics.co.uk
- United States: 1630 Dan Kipper Drive, Riverside, CA 92507. T +1 424 203 1813. autexacoustics.com
Autex is ISO certified (Quality, Environmental, Health & Safety). Brand names are trademarks. © 2024 Autex Industries Ltd. Users must verify suitability for their application. Information is current as of publication.