This guide covers the vertical installation of Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard on walls and ceilings. Vertical installation is recommended for high-moisture environments as it allows for the best possible drainage.
Video: How to Install Trusscore Panels Vertically
Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard should be installed in temperatures between 10–20°C (50–68°F). If you are installing outside this range, refer to the Cold Weather Installation Guide.
Regardless of temperature, place the panels in the installation area for at least 24 hours before installing them. This helps reduce expansion or contraction after installation. Loosen or remove any packaging that may restrict the panels while they acclimatize.
Check that all surfaces are straight. Install furring strips or strapping where needed.
When adding strapping, use 1″×4″ or 2″×4″ furring strips.
Ensure all vapor barriers are installed to code before installing Wall&CeilingBoard.
Install Wall&CeilingBoard perpendicular to ceiling joists or roof trusses.
If installing parallel to joists, the joists must be 16″ on-center.
If furring strips or strapping are required, install them perpendicular to the framing at 24″ on-center.
Install wood blocking around all openings to properly support trims.
Install adequate backing for lights or other suspended items—never mount anything directly to Trusscore.
Do not begin installation until the building is fully enclosed, HVAC is running, and any construction moisture has been removed.
If installing Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard vertically on both walls and the ceiling, install the ceiling first.
Cut the first panel to length. Position it with the screw flange facing away from the wall. Check that the panel is parallel to the outside wall by measuring at both ends—equal measurements mean the panel is parallel.
Leave a 1/8″ gap between the tongue side of the panel and the wall. Fasten the panel at least once every 24″ using the recommended screws. Leave 1/4″ clearance at both ends of the panel for expansion and contraction. Do not overtighten screws.
If the ceiling is longer than the panel length, join panels in the middle using the H Channel Snap-In Kit.
After installing the first row of panels, install the J Trim along the top of the wall below. Push the trim tight to the face of the ceiling panels with the channel facing away from the panels, and fasten it to the wall. This supports the side of the ceiling panel that was not fastened. Cut the trim 1/2″ short in one corner.
With the first row in place, install the remaining ceiling panels. Insert the tongue of each new panel into the groove of the previous one. Press the panels firmly together to ensure a proper connection, then fasten the new panel.
Periodically check alignment by measuring from the wall to the edge of the panels at both ends. If the measurements match, the panels are straight. If not, adjust the position of the panel.
The final panel may need to be ripped to fit. Maintain a 1/8″ gap between the cut edge and the wall.
Insert the last panel into the groove of the previous panel. Then immediately install the top-wall J Trim to support the unfastened edge, pushing it tight to the face of the ceiling panels before fastening it to the wall.
Install Base Trim or J Trim along the bottom of the wall. Match the 1/2″ short trim cut used at the top corner.
Use J Trim or Inside Cove Corner Trim for corners. Start at the corner where you cut the J Trim 1/2″ short, and offset the vertical trim by 1/2″ from the corner to leave space for the final wall panel to slide behind it. Install all required perimeter trims around doors and windows.
Install the remaining J Trim along the top of the walls.
Cut the first panel to length. At the corner where the J Trim is cut 1/2″ short, place the panel with the tongue in the corner trim and the groove (screw flange) facing away.
Leave a 1/8″ gap between the tongue side and the adjoining trim. Fasten at least once every 24″ with the recommended screws. Leave 1/4″ clearance at panel ends. Do not overtighten screws.
Insert each new panel’s tongue into the groove of the previous panel. Press firmly to ensure a proper connection, then fasten the new panel.
Periodically measure from the wall to the edge of the panel at both the top and bottom. If the measurements match, the installation is straight. If not, adjust the panel.
Trim the last panel as needed. Maintain a 1/8″ gap between the cut edge and the wall.
After installing the last panel on a wall, place the next corner trim with the channel facing away from the panels. Push it tight to the corner and fasten it.
Repeat Steps 4–8 for each remaining wall.
When you return to the starting corner, insert the final panel behind the trim where the 1/2″ gap was left. Rip the panel if needed to allow full insertion behind the trim. Slide it toward the groove of the previously installed panel and press firmly to complete the connection.
For more information about installing Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard, download our detailed installation guide.
