High Pressure Laminate Countertops

Components

• Manufacturers fuse layers of a machine-made material called kraft paper and phenolic resin to make laminate sheets and rolls. A final layer of decorative paper tops the laminate to create the look of the final product. A heat and pressurized process fuses the materials together to form the hard, thin sheeting. An adhesive is applied to secure the laminate to medium-density fiber board or particle board to construct a sturdy countertop.

Types

• When selecting laminate for new or remodeled countertops, the homeowner has basic or designer series from which to choose. The basic or generic laminate has a nonadhesive back that must be glued to the counter surface. Designer laminates have self-adhesive or nonadhesive backing to work with when adhering them to the counter surface. A professional or do-it-yourself homeowner can work with either application.

Decor

• The process to manufacture laminate surfaces was first developed at the Canadian-based Howard Smith Paper Mills Ltd. in the early 1940s. The new product was the result of using pulp resin from paper making. The decorative countertop surface has improved over the decades to include hundreds of hues in solid colors, simulated chrome, mirrored surfaces, faux wood grain, leather-look and botanical designs. Artistic laminate products have the look of stainless steel, granite, marble and raised embossed prints.

Benefits

• High-pressure laminate is easy to care for. The material also allows the homeowner to change out the countertop surface without tearing out the entire top. Heat, chemical and fire-resistant properties add to the quality of the product for a kitchen countertop. A surface is markedly stronger after high-pressure laminate is applied to it. This allows the countertop to hold up under heavier items such as a stand mixer.