Preventing Solid Tambour Stress Fractures

At White River Hardwoods, our “solid” style tambour panels are designed to be used as panel inserts for frames. Due to the machined profile and the material's thinness, these panels perform best when used with additional framing or backing.

Installation Guidelines

• Center Panel Inserts: Allow for movement within the frame to accommodate natural expansion and contraction. Apply finish to both sides and let the panels air dry – oven drying is not recommended.
• Standalone Panels: When using as a stand-alone panel, ensure a backing of at least 0.375” thickness. For enhanced stability, we recommend using an MDF panel. Our solid ¼” and 3/8” thick tambour panels made from MDF Plus can be used without an additional backer but must be sealed on all surfaces prior to installation.

Environmental Considerations

Panels installed in areas with extreme humidity variations—such as fireplace surrounds, oven hoods, or bathrooms—may experience greater expansion and contraction regardless of finish or construction. For these environments, periodic resealing is recommended to minimize moisture loss.

Warranty Information

Our warranty covers products installed and finished according to these guidelines for one year after purchase. This ensures you receive optimal performance and longevity from your tambour panels.