FAQS

Placing an order is simple! You can either purchase directly via our online shop (featurepanel.co.nz) or request an invoice via email (info@featurepanel.co.nz).

Once payment has been received, we will promptly dispatch your order and provide tracking details to keep you informed throughout the delivery process.

If you have any questions along the way, our customer service team is here to assist you.

Lead times will vary based on your location.

Once your order has been received, ensuring stock allows, your order will be processed within two working days. Shipping North Island Wide typically takes 3-5 working days. Shipping South Island wide takes 5-10 working days.

We have a showroom in Mount Maunganui and we're working on having several show spaces throughout NZ, but until then, you can order samples of each profile to be delivered to your door.

Once your order has been shipped, you will receive tracking details from Mainfreight via email. You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your delivery.

Yes Feature Panels Fine Line range can be fixed over steel frames. Contact your local registered builder for the recommended screws to suit your framing.

Right here, online to be shipped to you via our website www.featurepanel.co.nz.

Although we can cut your panel to your dimensions, its strongly recommended you cut to install on site to allow for any walls that are not square.

We do however offer 1/2 panels both vertically and horizontally, to ensure minimal material is wasted and to save you unwanted costs.

No, there is no need to glue the joiner into the edge of the Feature Panel.

It should hold in place until the next panel is installed/joined, creating a seamless tongue and groove system.

We recommend that safety glasses and masks are worn when working with any timber product, especially when cutting or sanding.

You may also consider wearing disposable gloves when using adhesives to minimise the exposure to your skin.

Please refer to our 'Installation guide'.

A flexible construction adhesive or stud adhesive (MS silicone) can be used for fixing the 'Fine Lines' range to studs, noggins and on to existing walls. You must also fix into the framework structure using nails and/or screws when installing the Fine Lines Range.

When installing the Flex Range, no mechanical fixings are required.

No, Feature Panel should not be used in wet areas or splash zones. It should not be used where steam, high humidity or prolonged heat are present.

Feature Panel does not provide a list of recommended installers, nor can we take responsibility for the workmanship of any third-party installer. However, our panels are designed with ease of installation in mind, making them suitable for professional builders, carpenters, or even confident DIY enthusiasts.

To support your installation process, we offer a comprehensive range of installation guides, available on our website. If you have any questions along the way, our friendly team is always happy to assist via email or phone.

Almost all of the installation steps are covered in our DIY videos via our instagram page. You can also call or email us, should you have any installation questions, we are more than happy to help.

When using a registered builder, the builder should ensure the cavity will not have any form of condensation/moisture issues. Therefore, painting/sealing the rear sides of the board is not required. However it is imperative that any cut edges are painted/sealed.

We recommend looking at your fireplace manufacturer's advice, as this will override our recommendations.

Clearances for Panelling or Combustible Materials Around Fireplaces in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the installation of fireplaces—freestanding, inbuilt, or gas—near combustible materials like wood panelling is governed by the New Zealand Building Code and the relevant standards, including AS/NZS 2918:2018 Domestic Solid Fuel Burning Appliances—Installation and AS/NZS 5601.1:2022 Gas Installations. Below is a summary of key considerations:

1. Manufacturer’s Specifications

The first step is to always refer to the manufacturer’s installation manual. This document provides specific clearance requirements tailored to the design and heat output of the appliance, whether it’s a solid fuel, gas, or electric fireplace. The manufacturer’s guidelines take precedence over general recommendations.

2. Freestanding Solid Fuel (Wood-Burning) Fireplaces

• Standard Clearances: If no specific manufacturer instructions are provided, AS/NZS 2918:2018 sets the default minimum clearance to combustible materials at 1,250 mm from the appliance.
• Reduced Clearances with Heat Shields: Heat shields can be installed to reduce the required clearance. These shields must meet the construction and installation requirements of AS/NZS 2918:2018, such as air gaps and approved materials.

3. Inbuilt Solid Fuel (Wood-Burning) Fireplaces

• Wall Clearances: Inbuilt fireplaces are installed within a cavity, and the wall linings surrounding the cavity must meet fire resistance requirements. Typically, a clearance of 50 mm to 150 mm from combustible materials is required, depending on the appliance and cavity construction.
• Non-Combustible Surrounds: Materials such as concrete or fire-rated plasterboard may be required around the opening to ensure compliance.

4. Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces typically produce less radiant heat compared to solid fuel fireplaces, allowing for closer clearances in some cases:

• Wall Clearances: Manufacturer guidelines usually specify clearances between 150 mm and 500 mm for combustible materials.
• Flue and Ventilation: Proper flue installation and ventilation must comply with AS/NZS 5601.1:2022 to ensure safety.
• Surrounds: Some gas fireplaces are designed with built-in insulation or cool-wall technology, allowing for closer installation to combustible materials. Always verify this with the manufacturer.

5. Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces typically do not produce as much heat as wood or gas fireplaces, so they often allow installation directly against combustible materials. However, clearances specified by the manufacturer must still be followed to ensure safety.

6. Important Considerations for All Fireplace Types

• Heat Shields: Where space is limited, heat shields can be used to reduce clearances for both freestanding and inbuilt fireplaces. These must comply with AS/NZS 2918:2018 for solid fuel fireplaces or relevant gas standards for gas appliances.
• Inspection and Compliance: Installations should be performed or inspected by a qualified professional to ensure compliance with local building regulations and the New Zealand Building Code.
• Local Authority Requirements: Some councils may impose additional restrictions or vary the standards slightly. It’s always advisable to consult your local building authority for specific requirements.

7. Safety Tips and Maintenance

• Regularly inspect the fireplace and surrounding area to ensure no combustible materials are within the required clearance.
• Keep the flue or chimney clear of obstructions to prevent heat buildup and ensure proper ventilation.
• Use fire-resistant materials for hearths, mantels, and surrounds as specified by the fireplace type and standards.

By following these guidelines and consulting with professionals, you can ensure the safe and compliant installation of any type of fireplace in your home while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of interior features like wood panelling.

Our suggested 'Must Haves' to install your Feature Panel:

• Tape measure
• Circular Saw or hand saw
• Packers for the base expansion gap
• Bond adhesive/glue to attach your panel to the framing or exisiting wall
• Hammer and nails or screws (unless using out Veneer Flex Range)
• Joint sealant when using our Primed Range (a flexible and paintable MS silicon is recommended for a seamless join)
• Filler to fill nail/screw holes (primed Range)
• Sandpaper to smooth filled holes
• Your choice of interior paint/top coat to achieve the finished result

Feature Panel can be used on ceilings but is not reccomened for any floor applications.

Yes, as long as it will not come into contact with frequent liquid / water.

When installing around a kitchen island, a toe kick is recommended.

*You must check your order for any damage as soon as it arrives*

Occasionally damage occurs to orders in freight. Unfortunately this is outside of our control. However, if your panel arrives damaged, please email us immediately with an explanation and photos of the damage. Note this needs to be done within 5 days of receiving your order so we can work with Mainfreight to manage your claim.

If agreed, we will then arrange for new panel to be freighted to you and the damaged panel will then need to be picked up via Mainfreight. Note, this is a Mainfreight policy, not our own.

Returns Policy

• Change of Mind: Returns due to a change of mind, including design, colour preferences, or miscalculation of sizing, will be at your own cost and must be made within 30 days of receiving the goods.
• Stock Availability: Returns are only accepted if the panel is currently stocked.
• Timeframe: Non-sale items can be returned for an exchange or refund within 30 days of delivery.

Conditions for Return:

• Items must be unopened/unused, and in their original packaging.
• You must contact us within 7 days of receiving your order by emailing info@featurepanel.co.nz to arrange the return.
• The cost of returning items is your responsibility, and original shipping fees are non-refundable.

Important Note:

• We cannot accept returns for items if they are damaged when freighted back to us.

Refund Process:
Once we receive the returned items and confirm it’s in resaleable condition, we’ll process a refund to the same payment method used for your order. Please note:

• Refunds can take up to 30 days to reflect in your account, accounting for processing, restocking, and bank handling times.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team at info@featurepanel.co.nz.

We recommend speaking with us early in your planning to ensure selected panels are in stock and available to meet project timeframes. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements and we will confirm stock availability and provide you with accurate lead times.

As natural timber ages, the colour can change depending on your coating of choice. Our recommendation is Osmo Polyx Oil and to follow their guidelines regarding application.

Over time, wood veneer develops a unique patina, deepening in colour and gaining character with exposure to light and environmental conditions. However, prolonged sunlight exposure may lead to fading.

It is important to note that our veneer range with wood face is a natural product; each panel will have a slight pattern and colour variation. If this is a concern, please contact us for a solution.

Yes, our Fine Lines Range is. However due to the nature of our flex range, when ordering and measuring your space, please allow for 20mm 'waste' as the edges are 'raw and will likely need trimming.

Yes! You can install Feature Panel after you have completed your build/renovation. Our Fine Lines range can be installed straight on to framing timber, however our Wood Veneer range and Surface range is best applied on top of GIB.