High-pressure laminate is an excellent choice for hotels and restaurants because it can withstand intensive use and is easy to keep clean. When choosing a floor covering, it is important to consider the thickness, surface texture and colour scheme that are appropriate for the use of the space. The right laminate combines durability, hygiene and aesthetics with the requirements of professional kitchens and customer areas.

What is high pressure laminate and why is it suitable for hotels and restaurants?

High pressure laminate is a high pressure, high heat surface material consisting of several paper laminates and resin. It forms a durable, uniform surface that is resistant to abrasion and easy to clean.

The material is ideal for public spaces because of three important properties. Durability is the first strength - laminate resists constant use, dents and scratches better than many other surface materials. Hygiene is another major advantage, as the sealed surface does not absorb dirt or bacteria. A third strength is ease of maintenance, as the surface is smooth and easy to wipe clean.

In hotels and restaurants, these features are crucial. Catering establishments need materials that look clean despite constant use. In professional kitchens, cleanliness and hygiene are statutory requirements, and high-pressure laminate is an effective response.

What characteristics make laminate durable for hotel and restaurant use?

High pressure laminate technical features are wear resistance, moisture resistance, heat resistance, impact resistance and chemical resistance. These make it the ideal choice for intensive professional use.

Wear resistance means that the surface can withstand constant abrasion and use without losing its appearance. This is important for table tops and worktops that are used on a daily basis. Moisture resistance protects the material from swelling and damage in humid conditions, which is essential in kitchens and washrooms.

The heat resistance allows hot dishes to be placed on the surface without immediate risk of damage, although the use of a saucer is recommended. Impact resistance protects the material from cracking and chipping when dishes and utensils are handled vigorously. Resistance to chemicals is an important property, as professional cleaners will not damage the surface.

How to choose the right thickness and quality of laminate for different applications?

The thickness of the laminate is selected according to the application: table tops 0.8-1.3 mm thick, wall surfaces 0.6-0.8 mm and doors and furniture 0.7-1.0 mm thick. Thickness has a direct impact on durability and service life.

Countertops and worktops are the most exposed to wear and tear, so it's a good idea to use thicker laminate. Restaurant tables and bar counters benefit from a thickness of 1.0-1.3 mm to withstand the constant use of dishes and glasses. Hotel tables can survive with 0.8-1.0 mm thickness because of less use.

For wall surfaces, a thinner material is sufficient because they do not experience the same mechanical stress. For kitchen walls, a thickness of 0.7-0.8 mm provides sufficient protection against splashes and cleaning. Walls in customer areas can cope with a thickness of 0.6 mm.

Quality classes are determined by the operational load. Heavy-use areas need the highest quality laminate, while less-used areas can benefit from mid-range quality laminate solutions to improve cost-effectiveness.

Which colours and surface textures work best in hotel and restaurant environments?

For colour choices favour medium tones and textured surfaces that hide dirt and signs of wear. Overly light or dark monochrome surfaces should be avoided, as they easily reveal stains and fingerprints.

Greys, browns and off-whites are practical choices. They suit a wide range of interior styles and stay cleaner for longer. Wood patterns and stone designs are popular because they add a natural look to a space and effectively hide small scratches.

For surface textures, a matte finish is a better choice than a glossy one, as it is less likely to show fingerprints. A slightly rougher surface also offers better grip in wet conditions. A deeper texture helps hide signs of wear, but it should not be so deep that cleaning becomes difficult.

The brand look is best achieved with neutral primary colours, which can be complemented with colours in other materials. Timeless choices will last longer than on-trend colours, which makes economic sense for professional use.

How to effectively maintain and clean your laminate in a professional environment?

Laminate daily cleaning with a mild all-purpose cleaner and a microfibre cloth. Stains should be removed immediately to prevent them from sticking to the surface permanently. Drying with a clean cloth prevents water marks from forming.

Greasy stains can be removed with a dishwashing liquid that dissolves grease effectively. Abrasive cleaners and harsh cleaning products should be avoided as they can scratch the surface. Steel wire and scouring pads are strictly forbidden.

Professional cleaners are suitable for laminate, but should be tested on an unseen area first. Chlorinated agents can cause discolouration and should be used with caution. Disinfectants are allowed and recommended to maintain hygiene.

For long-term maintenance, regular cleaning is more important than harsh cleaning agents. It is always a good idea to place a tray under hot dishes, even if the laminate is moderately heat resistant. The use of cutting boards protects the surface from wear and tear caused by cuts and scratches.

A properly selected and maintained high-pressure laminate will serve the hospitality industry for years. The material combines practicality and aesthetics in a way that meets the demands of professionals. At Lorella, we can help you find the right laminate solutions for your project that will stand the test of time and use. Contact our experts to get a tailor-made solution for your needs.