Marine Liner Installation Guidelines
NOVASUEDE® and FINESSE® are made of NYTEK®, a specially engineered nylon fiber matrix. These luxurious materials are very much like natural leather, not just in the way they look and feel but in the way they react to atmospheric conditions.
NYTEK®, like leather, will expand and contract slightly with changes in moisture content, although it will not retain much water. It regulates absorbed moisture so that it never holds more than 8 to 10 percent of its own weight.
NYTEK® products with a Majilite foam/tricot knit package are more dimensionally stable to changes in atmospheric conditions. The 1/8″ foam package is the most common construction and is the standard for headliners and panels with most major manufacturers and custom refurbishers. The foam/tricot package increases acoustical properties and gives a more luxurious padded effect. It will also mask defects and soften rough surfaces.
For best results, NYTEK® products should be installed in a humid environment. With more moisture, NYTEK® is easier to work with it and will remain tighter after installation. These fabrics are softened by moisture, making them more elastic and easier to stretch. Additionally, the fabrics are in their most expanded state when moist and by pulling them tightly, they will get even tighter as the moisture decreases. They will then remain unaffected with future changes in moisture level.
Controlling atmospheric conditions in a production environment may not always be practical. Many installers keep a humidifier or steamer in the installation area. Installers can also use a water spray bottle and apply it to the backside of the material (even on the foam back) during installation. This technique can be used if conditions are dry or whenever a tight, crease-free wrap around a tough curve or corner is desired.
In order to create a tight appearance, pull the NYTEK® product as tightly as practically possible. Also be sure to pull evenly to avoid rippling. Since NYTEK® has such high tensile strength, installers should not worry about pulling too hard.
For a stretch and staple overhead, we recommend keeping the spacing between ribs to 24 inches or less to prevent sagging. To achieve even tension, follow these steps:
- Tack or staple the material to one end of one rib or batten. Pull the material the length of the batten down to the other end to the maximum stretch possible and tack down this end.
- Lightly mist the back (foam/tricot) side of the material with water. Restretch from one end and staple. Staple along the rib without further stretching.
- Starting on one end, stretch this material straight across to the other rib or batten and staple. Use appropriate leather stretching tools for maximum stretch. Water mist if conditions have dried the material. As the material dries it will further contract and tighten.
Use a good quality clear spray contact adhesive for cementing to a flat surface. For cement bonding to wood or other porous surfaces with water-based cements, back the NYTEK® to a Majilite sheeting.
The information contained in this guide is based on laboratory tests and actual field experience. The suggestions are intended as an installation guide only without guarantee. Since applications will vary, the exact method of installation is beyond our control. It is the buyer’s responsibility to assess the suitability of these products for the specific application.
