Contractors, architects, and interior designers know that when it comes to constructing a space, using high-quality materials that are durable and versatile is more economic in the long run. Choosing an innovative material like HPL sheets can help keep your structure looking picturesque for years to come. But before we dive into the applications for this material, let’s first discuss what are HPL sheets and what makes them the ideal material for your project.
Are you ready to know more? Keep reading to learn how to elevate your project’s overall design!
What is HPL?
HPLs are a favorite amongst construction professionals for their versatile and aesthetic finishes, but it’s best to understand what this product is before learning about its applications.
What are High Pressure Laminates (HPL)? HPLs are a composite finishing material that’s made with decorative paper and resin. This favored building material can withstand the wear and tear of daily use and withstand temperature changes with minimal maintenance, making it an economic choice for residential and commercial projects. In fact, depending on where you’re applying this material, it can last up to 15 years or more. This is all thanks to the multi-step process that HPL sheets go through.
How are HPL Sheets Made?
Creating this visually appealing laminate sheet involves a long process that consists of bonding different papers to resin. The usual composition of a sheet is 60 to 80 percent paper to 30-40 percent thermosetting resin.
We list down the different layers that make up this durable building material below:
Overlay
The overlay is the topmost layer that’s coated with a transparent melamine to make HPL sheets scratch and stain resistant. Additional design inclusions like a metallic finish or texture can also be added to this layer.
Décor
The visual appeal of your laminate sheet is dependent on the pattern or color of this layer. This layer is placed right before the overlay.
Fitterboard
Fitterboards are made of stacked kraft paper. The stability and thickness of the panel are conditional to this layer’s build.
Bottom
The foundational layer of HPL sheets contain melamine-impregnated paper. The special paper gives this layer its structural solidity, moisture resistance, and adhesive properties.
Advantages of HPL
Choosing an HPL sheet for your construction needs has a myriad of benefits. Not only is it low maintenance and built-to-last, but it’s also resistant to fading even when the natural elements are acting upon it.
Below are some advantages you can reap by choosing this product for your interiors:
Reliable
As we’ve mentioned above, the multi-step process and the number of layers HPL sheets have makes it a reliable fixture solution for you. Feel at ease knowing that the daily wear and tear of usage or any accidents or hits against this surface won’t affect its appearance.
When building a space, you’ll be thinking about so many things. Lessen your load by choosing a material that’s proven and tested to stand the test of time.
Timeless
The sturdy materials used to make HPL sheets keep them looking pristine for years to come. HPL’s creation process and properties give it excellent UV-ray resistance. Unlike other finishing solutions that will fade because of daily sunlight and humidity, this building material will still look its best, no matter the weather.
Versatile
Ease of application to any surface, whether straight or curved, is a quality that HPL sheets boast. This material can also hold up in either vertical or horizontal applications, given that it was installed correctly.
Consistent
A quality that you may look for in your finishing solutions is the design’s consistency. Choosing materials like wood for your countertops or cabinets can be quite taxing because of its lack of visual continuity. In addition to that, it can be costly to find a solid wood panel that’s large enough for your needs.
Choosing HPL panels for your fixtures can eliminate the stress of inconsistency in design.
Manageable
This sheet’s overlay material makes it easy to clean. Keep your laminate looking spotless by just wiping it down with a damp microfiber cloth.
Infiltration Resistant
The layers of resin and melamine-impregnated paper give this building material its water-resistant properties. You can install these laminates in areas with high humidity levels and feel at ease knowing that your structure will still look as elegant as ever.
If before one of the biggest concerns in using HPL sheets was that the material could encourage bacterial growth, there are now innovations to combat it. Antibacterial HPLs are now available in the market to lessen bacterial growth and keep your surface hygienic.
Safe
A big worry that people often have nowadays is the safety of the chemicals used during the manufacturing of goods. The good news is that all the materials used to create HPL panels are harmless, making them a safe option for any application.
Heat Resistance
HPL sheets can handle heat exposure up to 180 degrees Celsius, making them much more heat resistant than other thermoplastics in the market. Additionally, HPL sheets for kitchen applications are a common practice because this material isn’t easily combustible and will not help spread fires should there be one.
Although, it’s best to remember that the degradation of HPL sheets can speed up with extreme temperature exposure.
Economic
As you can see from the many benefits we’ve mentioned above, HPLs are a sturdy option that will last you a long time. You’ll surely get value for your money by using this material for your building.
Types of HPL Sheets
HPL Sheets have a variety of surface finishes that can help you achieve stunning results for your construction project.
We’ve enumerated several types of finishes and designs that you can use for your building:
Textured Laminates
Not only are these HPLs visually appealing, but they also provide an interesting tactile finish to your surfaces.
Solid Color Laminates
Painted walls will eventually fade because of the sun. Keep your area looking fresh by lining your walls with HPL laminate sheets.
Wood Grain Laminates
The difficulty of keeping wood grains and textures consistent is put to rest with this type of laminate sheet. It’ll give your space that rustic look while also providing the tactile experience of wood.
Uses of HPL Sheets in Interiors
Because of the many designs and textures that HPL sheets have, you can use them for various interior and fixture finishes. Fulfill your visual goals by using various HPL sheets for your needs.
Walls
HPL panels can easily hold up in vertical applications, making them a great option for your wall’s visual aesthetic. In addition to its stability, you’ll also need not worry about discoloration and repainting your walls because of its UV resistance properties.
Tables
The heat and infiltration resistant properties of HPL sheets make them an excellent choice for surfaces. You can use any of the textured laminates for a satisfying tactile experience for your tables.
Fixtures
Elevate your interiors by using laminate sheets to add texture and color to your fixtures. Applying HPL sheets to cabinets and shelves can instantly add depth and character to a room.
Designing Your Space with Quality in Mind
We’ve talked about what HPL panels are and how they can elevate your project’s visual aesthetics in an economically friendly way. Now, the only thing you’ll need is to ensure that the design you’ve chosen is consistent by finding a trusted supplier.
If you’re looking for a supplier that can deliver your needs in the volume and time that you need, then feel free to contact us at Decocity.
We’ll help you achieve your goals of a visually pleasing design with a strong foundation without breaking the bank.