What is post forming laminate?
The aim of the post-forming process is to allow the laminate to bend, offering a greater level of flexibility. By contrast, traditional laminate tends to be stiffer and less easy to work with, not to mention thicker. Post-formed laminate was first manufactured in the 1950s, and was particularly popular in the 1970s.
When was post-formed laminate made?
Post-formed laminate was first manufactured in the 1950s, and was particularly popular in the 1970s. It still continues to be popular to this day.
How is laminate made?
Initially, laminate is made through fusing layers of both core and decorative paper into one single sheet. This sheet is then soaked with resins and pressed together using high levels of heat.
Do post-formed laminate countertops need end capping?
This is particularly advantageous when compared to conventional laminate, where the backsplash has to be added separately. The post-formed laminate countertop may also require end capping, if there is an end section on display. This is only for aesthetic purposes.
Do you need to cut post-formed laminate countertops?
Once the post-formed laminate countertops have been distributed, they simply need to be cut to the desired length, mitered and fitted. Fitting tends to involve simply dropping the countertop into place, with the backsplash already in place.
What type of laminate is used for Formica?
Formica brand laminate should be bonded to an appropriate substrate such as 45# density particleboard (CS 236-66: Type 1, Grade B, Class 2), or Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF). The use of plywood is discouraged whenever possible, due to the potential for stress cracking, shrink-back, and surface telegraphing problems. The substrate should be sanded smooth, clean, free of oil or grease, and uniform in thickness.
How should laminate flooring be stored?
Laminate should be stored horizontally, with a caul board or other protective sheet placed on top to protect the material from possible damage. The material should be protected from moisture, and should never be stored in contact with the floor or an outside wall. Optimum conditions for storage are approximately 75°F (24°C), and 45% to 55% relative humidity.
How long does it take for laminate to acclimate?
Prior to fabrication, allow both the laminate and substrate to acclimate for at least 48 hours at the same ambient conditions. Optimum conditions are approximately 75°F (24°C), and relative humidity of 45% to 55%. Provisions should be made for the circulation of air around the materials.
What is melamine impregnated paper?
Melamine-impregnated decorative surface papers are combined with phenolic-treated kraft paper and consolidated in a press at high pressures. The sheet back is sanded to maintain a uniform thickness and facilitate bonding.
Does Formica laminate marr?
Formica brand laminates with low sheen surfaces are subject to marring. Recommend fabricating with peel coat on surface (if applicable). Router base should be clean and free of burrs and debris. Table saws should be clean, flat and free of burrs.
Does Formica have a warranty?
Formica Corporation expressly warrants that, for a period of one (1) year from the date of first sale , these products will be reasonably free of defects in materials and workmanship, and that when properly handled and fabricated, will conform, within accepted tolerance, to applicable manufacturing specifications. Colors subject to dye lot variations. This limited warranty only applies to Formica® brand laminate which is stored, handled, fabricated and installed in the manner recommended by Formica Corporation. Due to the variety of uses and applications to which Formica brand laminate may be put, FORMICA
How thick is a kitchen countertop?
The smooth 1-1/2” thick front nose along with the 3/4” radius makes this the perfect countertop to complement today’s modern look. The simplicity of this countertop will enhance the look of any room.
How thick is the E top 1500?
A Crisp European styling with today’s new trends in mind. E-Top 1500 has a 180° front nose, 1-1/2” thick. The laminate wraps around the front nose giving added protection. This sleek, gorgeous design will enhance any room.
How Thick Is Laminate?
Laminate countertops are generally made out of three layers of particleboard and papers that have been soaked in resin, according to Builders Surplus. Some of that paper is brown Kraft paper, the same kind you'll find in the brown grocery bags you can get at the supermarket. The middle layer is typically the decorative design that you see when you look at the counter, with the top layer being a translucent, resin-soaked layer that protects the entire countertop.
How thick is laminate countertop?
But in general, the laminate used for high-impact surfaces like kitchen countertops is referred to as horizontal grade, and it is usually 1/16 inch thick. The standard total thickness of the three layers of laminate countertops, including particleboard and resin-soaked papers, is 1 ½ inches. Though some prefer thicker countertops to mimic ...
When did Formica start making countertops?
Formica was the originator of laminate countertops in the early 1900s. Though many other retailers offer laminate today, many people use the words "formica" and "laminate" interchangeably, so a search for formica countertops could help you find some design inspiration, even if you don't end up buying Formica-brand countertops. Advertisement.
Is laminate flooring cheap?
Laminate didn't always have the best reputation. Once known as the super affordable material of midcentury countertops and floors, some interior designers and homeowners dismissed it as looking too cheap, preferring natural stone or wood instead.
Is laminate countertop affordable?
Laminate countertops are affordable. If you're undergoing a kitchen renovation, you want to make sure you get all the details right, including the laminate countertop dimensions. But with so many options for kitchen countertops, it can be tough to know you're working with the right numbers. Learning more about laminate counters can arm you with ...
What is the middle layer of a countertop?
The middle layer is typically the decorative design that you see when you look at the counter, with the top layer being a translucent, resin-soaked layer that protects the entire countertop.
Is laminate countertop good for a do it yourself project?
In addition to quality looks, many homeowners love that laminate is durable , easy to install as a do-it-yourself project, super simple to clean and more affordable than many natural stone options.
Can you make urethane edges?
On a side note, these edges can also be produced in urethane using a fairly simple injection molding process. Big runs are needed, however, and it's a big mess.
Is a foil a laminate?
Foils are paper, not laminated to a phenolic backer as in high pressure laminate. They have some wear resistance and chemical resistance but not the impact resistance that HPL has. Some foils are impregnated with melamine resin to enhance chemical and wear resistance, so I would assume if your counter is a foil, it has been treated. Some people call thermoset melamine "foil." They claim wear characteristics are similar to .020 grade HPL liner.
Is thermofoil as durable as HPL?
In most instances Thermofoil is not nearly as durable as HPL. The product you see in the picture is likely one called Kydex. It is a heavy duty Thermofoil applied with a press like Thermofoil.
Can laminate be bent?
You can't bend laminate to around a compound curved substrate, but there are other specialized materials that will do it. December 1, 2010
Can plastic laminate be bullnosed?
It is not plastic laminate, but a different material entirely. Plastic laminate will not form bullnose edges around a radius corner. It can form a bullnose edge on a very gentle curve though. This takes special forms, lots of time, money, etc.
What is post form laminate?
Post form grade laminate is thin and often made with a different process than vertical or horizontal grade. This allows the material to bend and adhere to particleboard. The laminate layer doesn’t need to be as thick because the wood reinforces it.
What grade of laminate is best for impact resistant?
When a surface needs to be impact resistant, horizontal grade is the best option. For this reason, vertical applications that need extra strength may be created from standard grade laminate.
What is horizontal grade laminate?
Horizontal Grade Laminate. Also commonly known as standard grade laminate, this is the most commonly used grade. It gets its name from the fact that it is mainly featured in horizontal applications such as counters, islands, desks, tables, and vanities. When a surface needs to be impact resistant, horizontal grade is the best option.
