As construction professionals, we are constantly faced with choices that affect the outcome, sustainability and economy of our projects. One of the most significant decisions relates to the choice of surface materials. Quality surface materials are the most visible part of a building and are in direct contact with users on a daily basis. Durable surfaces are not just an aesthetic choice, but a sound investment, which pays for itself in many ways. In this article, we look at why builders should invest in high-quality, durable surface materials such as laminates and composite materials.
The long-term economic benefits of sustainable surface materials
When considering the cost of surface materials, it is essential to look at the overall picture rather than just the purchase price. High-quality surface materials often require a higher initial investment, but their life cycle costs are significantly lower. For example, a high-quality laminate will last for decades, while a cheaper option may need to be replaced after just a few years of use.
A concrete example can be found in public furniture. Premium laminate furniture may cost 30% more as an initial investment, but typically has a lifespan of 15-20 years, compared to 5-7 years for the cheaper option. This means that the lower cost option will need to be replaced 2-3 times over the life of the high quality surface material, which will increase the overall cost significantly.
Maintenance costs are another important factor. Durable surface materials maintain their appearance and functionality with less maintenance, saving both labour and maintenance material costs. High-quality surface materials are also generally easier to clean, reducing maintenance labour time and costs.
Why quality laminates save time and money?
High-quality laminates offer a number of benefits that make them a cost-effective choice for many applications. Why are they an economically sound choice?
- Faster installation: High quality laminates are designed for professional installation. Their dimensional accuracy, machinability and installation systems speed up the job significantly.
- Less rework: high quality laminates are dimensionally stable, meaning they do not warp or deform easily. This reduces the need for repairs after installation.
- Excellent wear resistance: high quality laminates are more resistant to scratching, impact and chemicals than normal, which significantly extends their lifespan.
- Easy to clean: the surface of high-quality laminates repels dirt and is easy to clean, saving on maintenance costs.
For example, high-pressure laminates used in public furniture can save up to 40% in total lifecycle costs compared to cheaper alternatives, given the speed of installation, lower maintenance and longer lifetime.
General challenges and solutions for sustainable surfaces
There are also challenges that professionals face when choosing durable surface materials. The most common problems include:
Cost issues: higher initial investment can be a barrier in projects with budget constraints. The solution is to present life cycle costs in a transparent way and, where appropriate, to focus on the surfaces that are most exposed to wear and tear.
Understanding the technical characteristics: Composite materials and other special surface materials can have complex technical properties. The solution is to rely on experts and technical information provided by manufacturers, as well as on samples.
Choosing the right material for different applications: not all surface materials are suitable for all applications. For example Kerrock composite panels offer excellent solutions for damp areas, while other materials are more suitable for public spaces.
Installation challenges: the properties of even high-quality materials can be ruined by incorrect installation. The solution is to use experienced installers and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
The impact of surface materials on the value and usability of space
Surface materials are not just a functional choice, but have a significant impact on the overall value and user experience of a space. High-quality surface materials can:
Increases the value of the property: For example, composite panels and high-quality laminates communicate quality and longevity, which is directly reflected in the value of the property.
Improves usability: durable surface materials allow for more versatile use of spaces without the constant worry of wear and tear.
Create brand identity: especially in corporate spaces, surface materials are an essential part of the brand look. Composite panels offer endless possibilities for personalised, branded surfaces.
Impact on people's well-being: high quality surface materials contribute to the acoustics, lighting and atmosphere of a space, which in turn is reflected in the well-being and productivity of users.
Environmental friendliness and sustainable construction in surface selection
Environmental considerations are increasingly important in the construction sector. Sustainable surface materials support responsible construction in many ways:
A longer lifetime reduces overall material consumption and waste. For example, high-quality composite materials can last the lifetime of a building, while lower-quality alternatives need to be replaced several times.
Many high-quality surface materials are certified for their environmental friendliness. These certifications include the M1 emission rating, the EU Ecolabel and the requirements of various environmental certificates for buildings (LEED, BREEAM).
The choice of responsible materials supports sustainable development goals and helps meet modern building regulations. Surface materials can also contribute to the energy efficiency of a building through, for example, reflectivity and thermal conductivity.
In summary, investing in sustainable surface materials makes sense from a builder's perspective, both economically and environmentally. At Lorella, we help you find quality surface materials to suit your project needs, which bring value and sustainability for years to come.