What size are the RealCast Slab panels?
RealCast Slab panels come in two sizes, 24”x 48” and 48”x 48.” Both are approximately 3/8” thick.
What material are RealCast Slab panels made from?
RealCast Slab panels are made from highly durable, fiber-reinforced concrete. The concrete is CSA cement, which is used to ensure the highest quality performance.
What is CSA cement?
CSA cement distinguishes itself from Portland cement with a high-speed bonding, fast strength development, and a shrinkage reduction. CSA cement has been used for decades as a binder in concrete for bridges, airport runways, and concrete road-repair.
Are there thickness variations in RealCast Slab panels?
Yes, since the panels are a poured concrete product, they naturally will vary slightly in thickness, typically about 1/8” but sometimes more. This is due to the molding process and the way the concrete naturally settles, most often causing variation from the panel edges and the middle. RealCast Slab panels will typically have these variations in thickness and also in corner formation (such as slightly rounded corners in some panels). These variations are typically not an issue as they mimic the same variations and inconsistencies found in poured-in-place concrete. But if you have some joints where the thickness is causing too much of a difference between two adjacent panels, they can be buttered or furred out slightly with any backer.
Are RealCast Slab panels paintable?
Yes, they are paintable using standard latex paints.
How heavy are RealCast Slab panels?
RealCast Slab panels are approximately 2.5 pounds per square foot.
Are RealCast Slab panels okay to use around a fireplace?
Yes, RealCast Slab panels are fine to use in most fireplace applications as they are non-combustible. If in doubt, always follow the fireplace manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can RealCast Slab panels be used as a kitchen backsplash?
Yes, they can be used as a backsplash tile. However, although they are sealed with a commercial grade sealant, they are still considered porous and could potentially be stained by cooking grease/animal fats/and or other food products. In the situation you decide to use RealCast Slab panels as a backsplash, we recommend ordering panels from us with no sealant & contacting a local concrete supply/tile store to find out the recommended top coat sealant for the use. Otherwise, going the ceramic/porcelain tile route would be best.
Can RealCast Slab panels be used in a shower?
Yes, they are suitable for use in showers; however, there are a couple of things to consider. There are small indents in the panels that would be susceptible to water getting trapped and potentially leaving water deposits or stains. It is also possible to order the Slab panels without the standard sealant, allowing you to apply a specific moisture sealant on site, if desired. Or you can use the standard panels that have a penetrating sealant and just add an additional surface sealant. The surface sealant could be applied heavy enough to fill the pits as well.
Lastly, RealCast Slab panels are typically installed without grout, but in a shower application you would need to grout the seams to prevent water from getting between the panels.
Can RealCast panels be used outside?
Yes, RealCast panels are exterior-rated for use outside. RealCast panels are considered large-format tiles and local building code and guidelines should be used.
Should a rain-screen be installed behind RealCast panels?
Yes, in most cases a rain-screen should be installed, but it is not always the case. It is important to check with your local building codes for this information, and it can also depend on the type of wall substrate you are installing over.
Are there any additional items that are to be purchased along with RealCast panels?
This depends on the specific application and the desired look. Adhesive will be needed, but what you are installing over (to) will help determine the best type for the specific application. RealCast panels can be installed with or without tile grout, again depending on the application and desired look. If heavy corner protection is desired, metal corner trims are also available through Wall Theory.
Are there any accessory trims available for RealCast panels?
Yes, there are steel corner trims available in two different finishes: stainless steel & raw steel. These trims can be found on the Wall Theory site.
How much does it typically cost to ship RealCast panels?
Shipping costs will vary depending on the amount of product ordered, final destination distance, and time of the year. We always recommend checking before ordering.
What are the average lead times for shipping RealCast panels?
Average production time is about 2-3 weeks. We always recommend checking before ordering.
How many RealCast Board-Form panels come in a box?
There are typically (4) 24x48” and (2) 48x48”RealCast Slab Panels per box.