Replacing a Wayside Exhibit Panel

Wayside exhibit panels must periodically be replaced due to damage or deterioration. Fiberglass panels exposed to severe sunlight should be replaced about every two years. The following steps explain how to replace a panel. For panels mounted in standard wayside exhibit frames, the process takes less than 10 minutes.

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Wayside Exhibits »

1. To receive new panels or other materials to maintain your wayside exhibits, contact Wayside Exhibit Minor Rehab Coordinator Susan Haines (phone: 304-535-6033; email: Susan_Haines@nps.gov).

2. To replace a wayside exhibit panel, three tools are needed: a hammer, pliers, and punch.

3. To replace the panel, first remove the top edge of the frame.

4. The frame is secured with "drive rivets," so called because they are secured by "driving" a pin into them, then driving it all the way through to remove it.

5. Using the hammer and punch, drive the center pin all the way through. (If you can catch and save the pin, the rivet can be reused).

6. Using the pliers, on the underside of the frame squeeze together the expanded prongs of the rivet, then remove the rivet from the top (you might have to tap it from the underside).

7. Once all of the rivets are removed (usually 3 on a standard frame) remove the frame piece and slide the old panel out.

8. Clean debris from the bottom channel of the frame (you can use the punch to do this), making sure the “weep” holes on the bottom of the frame are clear. The weep holes allow rainwater to drain, or weep, from the exhibit.

9. After the frame is clean, slide the new panel into place.

10. Put the top frame piece back in place and secure it with the drive rivets. Place the rivet in the hole, then use the hammer to drive the center pin into the rivet until the pin is flush with the rivet head. This expands the prongs on the underside, securing the rivet and frame.

11. Now, stand back and admire the panel. Or, better yet, stand back and watch visitors enjoy the fresh exhibit.