Metpar toilet partitions are designed for commercial restroom environments, offering a range of materials including powder-coated steel, stainless steel, and plastic laminate. Proper installation is crucial to maximizing their lifespan and performance. This article details the installation process, required tools, potential challenges, and maintenance procedures based on official Metpar documentation.
Pre-Installation Planning
Accurate measurements are essential prior to commencing installation. The process begins with a thorough field measurement of the restroom space, identifying any potential obstructions such as plumbing fixtures or walls. Review of Metpar’s layout drawings is also critical, as these drawings specify the precise locations for pilasters, panels, and doors. Planning ahead and coordinating all materials and hardware for each specific layout is recommended. Evaluation of any special conditions requiring custom-sized materials, unique hardware, or specialized tools should be completed during this phase. When determining centerline dimensions, reference the stall depths shown on the layout drawings. For Powder Shield, Stainless Steel, and Plastic Laminate pilasters, the centerline is 5/8” less than the overall stall depth. Solid Phenolic pilasters are 3/8” less. Materials typically take 2-4 weeks to arrive, depending on the material and customization options, so early ordering is advised. Ensuring all components, including hardware, are on-site before installation begins will streamline the process.
Required Tools and Materials
Installation requires basic tools commonly found in construction settings. These include a drill, level, tape measure, and screwdrivers. Specific drill bit sizes are recommended based on the subfloor material: a 1/4″ masonry bit for concrete floors and a 1/8″ bit for wood subfloors. Beyond these standard tools, the specific hardware and accessories required will depend on the chosen partition configuration. Metpar offers options such as anti-grip headrails for safety, continuous brackets for enhanced privacy, and premium stainless steel edge moldings for improved aesthetics and structural integrity.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
The installation process can be broken down into several key steps. First, mark the pilaster centerlines on the floor according to the layout drawings. Next, install the mounting brackets, ensuring they are level and properly aligned. Following bracket installation, attach the pilasters to the brackets. Finally, install the panels and doors. During installation, it is important to set the proper gaps. Metpar specifies a 1/2″ gap between the bottom of panels and the floor, and a 1″ gap for doors. These gaps are necessary for proper operation and ease of cleaning.
Addressing Installation Challenges
Several challenges may arise during installation. Uneven floors can complicate the process, requiring the use of shims to level pilasters and ensure doors hang correctly. For severely uneven floors, floor-to-ceiling mounted partitions are recommended for added stability. Misalignment of hardware is another common issue. Careful attention should be paid when installing hinges and latches to ensure smooth operation. If doors do not close properly, adjustment of the hinges or strike/keeper may be necessary.
Hardware and Accessory Considerations
Metpar offers a variety of hardware and accessory options to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of their partitions. Anti-grip headrails contribute to user safety, while continuous brackets provide increased privacy. Premium stainless steel edge moldings improve both the appearance and structural integrity of the partitions. These options allow for tailored solutions to meet specific facility needs.
Final Adjustments and Inspection
After installing all components, a thorough inspection is essential. Verify that all hardware is securely tightened and that doors open and close smoothly. Adjust door closers to ensure they close fully without slamming. A final cleaning of all surfaces is recommended to remove any installation debris or fingerprints, ensuring the partitions look their best for users. If any issues are identified during the inspection, address them promptly to maintain the quality and functionality of the installation.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining the appearance and longevity of Metpar toilet partitions requires regular care. All surfaces should be kept clean with water and a mild soap solution. Prolonged exposure to water should be avoided, as it can damage the surface finish. After cleaning, surfaces must be thoroughly wiped dry. In high-humidity environments, proper ventilation is crucial. For Powder Shield materials, periodic applications of a good quality car wax can provide maximum protection.
Troubleshooting and Support
In the event of installation difficulties, several resources are available. Metpar’s technical support team can provide guidance and insights to ensure a successful installation. Contact information for Metpar Corp is as follows: 95 State Street, Westbury, New York, USA, 11590. Telephone: 516-333-2600. Fax: 516-333-2618. Internet: http://www.Metpar.com. E-mail: [email protected].
Conclusion
Metpar toilet partitions represent a durable and functional solution for commercial restroom environments. Successful installation relies on careful planning, accurate measurements, and attention to detail. Addressing potential challenges such as uneven floors and hardware misalignment is crucial. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and ventilation, will ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the partitions. Consulting Metpar’s technical support team is recommended for any installation difficulties.