General Information: High Pressure Decorative Laminates are made up of layers of decorative and kraft paper, saturated with high performance resins and fused at high temperatures and pressure. Because of their durability, design variety and affordability, decorative laminates have been used for nearly 100 years on a wide range of surfaces: countertops, desk tops, cabinets, wall panels and furniture.
Pattern and Finish: High-pressure decorative laminates are available in hundreds of solid colors and patterns, including stone, wood and metal looks, and abstract designs. Laminates are available in a variety of finish options. The most popular laminate finish is Matte, recommended for countertops and most other applications in the home. Other popular finishes include Textured Gloss, which has the satin finish of polished stone or waxed wood, recommended for horizontal areas; and Crystal, a beaded texture that minimizes smudges, finger marks and the appearance of scratches. In general, glossy finishes show wear faster than matter finishes. Some manufacturers, however, have enhanced their smooth finishes with extra wear resistance.
Cleaning: The decorative surface may be cleaned with warm water and mild soaps, such as those used for hands or dishes. Do not use cleansers that contain abrasives, strong acids or alkalis; they will damage the decorative surface. Remove stubborn stains with a 2-minute exposure to hypochlorite bleach, such as Clorox, followed by a clean water rinse.
Scratches: Always protect your countertop from scratching by using trivets and pads. Steel wool and other abrasive pads will damage your countertop. Do not use them for cleaning and do not leave steel wool on the countertop as it can rust and stain the surface.
Staining: Laminate countertops are stain resistant. However, certain dyes and strong acids and alkalis can cause permanent damage. We recommend that you not allow any staining agent to remain in contact with the decorative surface.
Water: Excessive standing water or moisture at any seam or joint can penetrate to the substrate of the countertop causing swelling and delamination. All cut-outs for sinks, faucets, insta hots, etc., and the backsplash must be properly sealed and caulked to prevent water from migrating into the seam or cut-out. Defects of this nature are not covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Heat: Blistering or delamination can occur if the laminate surface is subjected to excessive heat. It is recommended that you protect your countertop from extreme heat by using trivets or hot pads. This is especially important where seams are located.
Assembly and Fabrication: High-pressure laminates are designed for interior use only. When applying the adhesive and bonding to the substrate, follow the techniques recommended by the laminate and adhesive manufacturer. Recommended adhesives are permanent types, such as woodworking glues and contact adhesives. The laminate can be bonded to a substrate of particleboard, medium density fiberboard or plywood.
Seaming: Placement of a factory or field seams is dependent on the application. Consult with Precision Countertops before installation or the seam placement will be at the discretion of Precision Countertops. Seams require special care and should be protected from excessive heat and moisture.
Customer Installed Laminate Tops: Upon receipt, and PRIOR to installation, the countertops must be thoroughly inspected to ensure it is free of material and workmanship defects. Any defects must be reported to Precision Countertops. The manufacturer's warranty does not cover electrical, plumbing and/or installation, which are incidental to removing and replacing a countertop. All cut-outs, seams, field joints, wall joints and backsplashes must be thoroughly sealed and/or caulked. The underside of the countertop, in front of the dishwasher, must be sealed with a water-resistant material (i.e. Thompson's Water Seal). The manufacturer's warranty does not cover damage caused by dishwasher steam.
Warranty: All laminate countertops come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty. Check manufacturer's website for warranty details.
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