Types of Laminates and Their Properties

Laminates are a type of highly popular surfacing material made from layers of kraft-paper glued together under high pressure and temperature. In essence, they are made from selected decorative paper and Kraft paper, which are then treated with melamine and phenolic resins. Laminates can be availed in a wide array of attractive colors, shades and textures. They can replicate the look of most other materials such as wood, metal and mosaic at a fraction of the cost. Laminates are widely used on surfaces as varied as doors, walls, shelves, tabletops and cabinets. They are used in one form or another in almost all modern residential and commercial constructions. According to your needs and preferences, you can choose from an extensive range of laminate types, including high pressure, digital, HD Gloss, anti-bacterial and fire retardant laminates.

Some of the different types of laminates and their unique properties have been listed below for your perusal.  

    1. High Pressure Laminates: High pressure laminates are manufactured using absorbent kraft-paper along with a layer of decorative paper, layered with chemical resins. These are then further hardened under heat and pressure. The high bonding strength of high-pressure laminates makes them resistant to moisture and high temperatures while also providing excellent dimensional stability. Special treatment used for surface protection also makes them resistant to scratches and dents. High pressure laminates are used to surface doors, cubicles, walls and worktops.

2. Gloss Laminates: High gloss laminate sheets are developed by manufacturers to create a high-end gloss on the surface of the laminates. Advanced technology is used to manufacture this type of laminates. Resistant to scratches and abrasion, high gloss laminates are premium products that are sturdier and more durable than most of their counterparts, and are therefore ideal for horizontal application. With their exquisite, glossy surface, these laminates give a high-end feel to any room wherein they are installed. They are widely used in commercial areas and have good color fastness, which makes them resistant to xenon light.

Apart from these, you could also buy fire-retardant laminates, chalk and marker grade laminates, unicore laminates and antibacterial laminates, depending on your own needs and preferences. For the high quality products, however, you should be sure that your laminate supplier has certifications such as Greenguard, FSC, ISO, ISI and OHSAS. Additionally, you should only commission the best laminate companies in India to supply the laminates meant for the refurbishment of your property. If you do so, you can be sure of getting the highest quality products at very competitive rates.