I making up a bath panel for the side of my bath out of 7mm T&G. So that I can remove the panel the T&G is backed by 2 spruce battens (approx 180cms x 3.5cmx x 1.8cms) running horizontally behind the T&G. The battens will rest in notches cut into the timber frame (because of the small gap between the edge of the bath & the timber frame I didn't have much choice).
The problem is that the panel has become slightly bowed horizontally. It's bending about 7or 8 mms away from the bath in the middle of the panel & it's enough to cause the panel to stick out beyond the bath. It doesn't help that the horizontal top of the timber frame which it rests on is also slightly bowed, but in the other direction giving a () type effect (ie from above).
How can I straighten the panel? It's the batten at the top that I'm more concerned about (as it shows more). My ideas are to use clamps or a weight to straighten it or try sticking some kind of wood behind as a stiffener. Are these sensible ideas - if so are there any tips about how to do it quicker (eg dampning, cooling or warming the timber. Any other suggestions or tips would be very welcome as it's causing me a real headache.
Thanks,
Michael