SIBU polystyrene sheets offer a versatile solution for renewing and finishing furniture surfaces. These flexible and thin design sheets easily adhere to a variety of furniture surfaces, bringing a new look and texture. The wide range of patterns, colours and surface textures of SIBU tiles enables countless design solutions for professionals and homeowners alike. The material's easy workability, lightweight construction and excellent moisture resistance make it an ideal choice for a wide range of furniture projects.
SIBU-polystyrene sheets as furniture renewal
SIBU polystyrene sheets are manufactured by the Austrian company SIBU Design GmbH & Co KG. innovative interior panels, specially designed for finishing furniture and interior surfaces. At the core of these panels is polystyrene, a light, durable and malleable material, often with a decorative layer such as metal, imitation leather or abstract patterns.
The basic characteristics of SIBU panels are that they are very thin (typically 1-3 mm), lightweight and flexible, making them easy to handle and install. They adhere effectively to most surfaces with a suitable adhesive and conform to a variety of shapes, including curved surfaces.
SIBU tiles are ideal for covering furniture because they are not only visually appealing, but also functional: they are highly resistant to wear, moisture and temperature fluctuations. They can be used to make completely new furniture or to refurbish old furniture, giving it a new look without major structural changes.
What are the technical characteristics of SIBU polystyrene sheets?
SIBU polystyrene sheets offer an excellent combination of practicality and aesthetics. Technically, the boards are typically 1-3 mm thick, making them ideal for thin surfaces where there is no room for thicker materials. The weight varies depending on the model, but on average they are very light (around 350-700 g/m²), which facilitates handling and reduces the overall weight of the furniture.
Flexibility is one of the main advantages of SIBUs. The material folds easily, allowing installation on curved surfaces and edges without cracking. Most models can be folded up to 90 degrees.
In terms of durability, SIBUs are highly resistant to moisture, UV radiation and temperature fluctuations (typically -20°C to +60°C). They do not mould or yellow easily, ensuring a long service life even in harsh environments. Depending on the surface material, they are also quite scratch resistant.
In terms of fire safety, most SIBU models are in fire class B2 (normally flammable), and special B1 (flame retardant) panels are also available for specific needs. Chemical resistance varies depending on the model, but in general the boards are highly resistant to common household cleaning products.
How are SIBU panels installed on furniture surfaces?
The installation of SIBU panels on furniture surfaces is relatively simple, but careful preparation is important to achieve a high quality outcome. Start by checking that the installation surface is clean, dry, free of grease and dust. The surface should also be flat and stable - plywood, MDF, chipboard and many other furniture boards are ideal as a base material.
The tools needed are simple: a sharp knife or scissors to cut the board, a ruler, a pencil, and, if necessary, sandpaper to smooth the surface. You will need a suitable adhesive for fixing - for most SIBU boards we recommend using SibuGlue or another adhesive recommended by the manufacturer.
The installation process is as follows:
- Measure the area to be coated accurately and mark the necessary dimensions on the SIBU board
- Use a sharp knife and a ruler to cut the plate to the right size
- Test the suitability of the board before applying the adhesive
- Apply the glue evenly to the bottom or to the SIBU (always follow the instructions of the glue manufacturer)
- Place the plate in place and press evenly over the entire surface
- Remove any air bubbles by rubbing the sheet from the centre towards the edges
When working with curved surfaces, it is advisable to bend the sheet to the desired shape beforehand. With some designs it may also be necessary to heat the sheet slightly to increase flexibility. To finish edges, you can use edging strips or fold the SIBU sheet itself over the edge.
Which furniture is best suited for SIBU polystyrene sheets?
SIBU polystyrene sheets are suitable for a wide range of furniture, but they work particularly well for applications where aesthetic appeal and good moisture resistance are valued. In kitchen cabinets, SIBU panels are an excellent choice for interior door surfaces and exposed edges. They are highly resistant to splashing water and common cleaning products, but are not suitable for worktops subject to heavy abrasion.
In bathroom furniture, SIBU panels come into their own thanks to their good moisture resistance. They can be used to cover sink cabinet doors, mirror frames and storage units. The material's water resistance makes it a durable choice for damp areas.
Sliding doors and wardrobe surfaces are also ideal targets for SIBU panels. The lightness of the panels does not add significantly to the weight of the doors, which is particularly important for the functionality of the sliding mechanisms. Metallic and glossy SIBU surfaces can bring a luxurious look to a wardrobe.
Other excellent uses include:
- Bed headboards - especially those with imitation leather or soft texture
- Visible side surfaces and shelf surfaces of shelving systems that are not subject to high stress
- Table sides and tops (excluding kitchen worktops)
- TV and media furniture fronts where modern surfaces are desired
- Partitions and movable partitions, which can be used to add interest on both sides
How can you combine SIBU boards with other materials?
SIBU polystyrene sheets offer endless possibilities material combinations, making them popular with designers. With wood materials, SIBU panels create an interesting contrast - the warmth of natural wood combined with a modern, industrial surface creates a balanced whole. For example, you can coat the centre of a furniture door with SIBU and leave the solid birch frame visible, or combine wooden shelves with SIBU-coated backs.
Combining with metals works perfectly, especially when you choose from the SIBU range of metallic imitation surfaces. This creates a cohesive but multi-dimensional look. Steel-framed furniture gets a new look with SIBU-coated parts, and panels with imitation copper or brass finishes, for example, go well with genuine metal details.
With glass, SIBU panels provide an interesting textural contrast. You can combine glossy glass doors with matt SIBU elements or vice versa. Particularly stylish are the back walls of display cabinets coated with reflective or patterned SIBU panels.
With stone and concrete surfaces, SIBU panels bring softness and warmth to otherwise hard materials. Concrete walls combined with metallic imitation SIBU-coated furniture work particularly well in modern interiors.
When it comes to colour schemes, consider both harmonious combinations (the same colour scheme) and bold contrasts. The wide range of colours available for SIBU tiles allows for precise matching with other interior elements.
When you are looking for quality SIBU design panels for your project, Lore offers a comprehensive range of surface options and expert advice on material choices.