Where it all began – sheet laminate

In 1968, Llandaff Laminates Ltd was formed as a result of the demand for sheet laminate from Perstop Decorative Laminates in Sweden.

Continuing to carve out a niche in the world of sheet laminate, other laminate brands were added including Warerite, Formica and Polyrey.

As you can see, laminate has been with us from the start, please read more below to understand what sheet laminate is and the impact it has had on our lives.

What is laminate?

Laminate or more specifically HPL, stands for High Pressure Laminate, which is a type of laminate material made by fusing layers of paper and resin under intense heat and pressure. It is commonly used as a decorative and functional surface for furniture, countertops, walls, and flooring.

The production process involves combining several layers of paper soaked in resin, including decorative papers, kraft paper (a strong brown paper), and a top layer of melamine resin. These layers are pressed together under high pressure, resulting in a dense, durable, and heat-resistant sheet.

Composition of HPL Laminate

HPL laminate is made up of several key layers:

  1. Protective Layer: This is the outermost layer, which is treated with resins and can be imprinted with a texture, providing a hardwearing whilst realistic finish.

  2. Decorative Paper: This is the second layer, which is printed with a design or pattern, such as wood grain, solid colors, or intricate stone patterns. As printing technology has improved, these designs are becoming more realistic, with some even being photographic reproductions of real wood, marbles and granites. 

  3. Decor Backing Paper: This is often a light coloured paper to help with light reflection and to show the decorative paper to it’s fullest potential.

  4. Multiple Layers of Kraft Paper: These layers are composed of kraft paper that is saturated with phenolic resin. The kraft paper provides strength and stability to the laminate.

ADVANTAGES OF laminate?

HPL laminate offers numerous advantages, making it an ideal material for many applications:

  1. Durability: HPL is extremely hard and resistant to scratches, stains, and impacts. This makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or surfaces prone to wear and tear.

  2. Variety of Designs: The decorative surface of HPL laminate can mimic a variety of materials, such as wood, stone, or metal, providing aesthetic flexibility without the high cost or maintenance of natural materials.

  3. Ease of Maintenance: HPL surfaces are easy to clean and maintain. Regular wiping with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the surface looking pristine.

  4. Moisture and Heat Resistance: Due to its resin-based construction, HPL is resistant to moisture, heat, and chemicals, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas exposed to moisture.

  5. Cost-Effectiveness: HPL offers a budget-friendly alternative to natural materials, such as marble, granite, or hardwood, while still providing a similar visual appearance and functionality.

Applications OF laminate?

HPL laminate is a versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications:

  1. Furniture: HPL is often used in the production of desks, cabinets, shelving units, and wardrobes. Its durability and variety of finishes make it a popular choice for both residential and commercial furniture.

  2. Worktops: Kitchen and bathroom worktops benefit from HPL’s durability and resistance to moisture and heat, making it an ideal material for high-use surfaces.

  3. Wall Panels: HPL laminate is commonly used for wall cladding in bathrooms, commercial spaces, offices, hospitals, and retail stores, as well as in residential settings.

  4. Flooring: While not as commonly used for flooring as other materials, HPL can also be found in some floor finishes, particularly in areas where durability and ease of maintenance are essential.

  5. Cabinet Doors and Facades: The material is often used for cabinet doors and facades in kitchens, bathrooms, and office spaces due to its ability to withstand frequent handling and exposure to moisture.

Conclusion

 

High Pressure Laminate (HPL) is a versatile and highly durable surface material that offers a combination of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and affordability.

Whether you’re outfitting a commercial space, designing a kitchen, or creating a piece of furniture, HPL laminate provides a reliable solution that meets a wide range of design and performance needs.

With its numerous benefits, including scratch resistance, ease of maintenance, and an extensive selection of designs, HPL continues to be a go-to material for modern interiors and architectural applications.