High-pressure laminate is available in a variety of thicknesses, typically ranging from 0.7 to 1.5 millimetres. The most common thickness is 0.8-1.0 mm, which is suitable for most furniture and interior applications. The choice of thickness affects the durability, workability and suitability of the material for different applications.
What does high pressure laminate thickness mean in practice?
The thickness of a high pressure laminate is measured in millimetres and directly affects the material's durability and performance. Thickness determines how well a laminate can withstand shocks, abrasion and bending. Thinner laminates are more flexible and easier to work with, while thicker ones offer better resistance to heavy use.
The thickness also affects the installation and joining of the laminate. Thicker laminates require more precise edge treatment and may show up more clearly at joints. The thickness of the material also determines the tools and techniques required for installation.
In practice, thickness is one of the most important selection criteria when designing the load and service life of surfaces. Choosing the right thickness ensures that the material will perform optimally in the intended application.
What are the most common thicknesses of high pressure laminate on the market?
Most common thicknesses are 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 1.0 mm and 1.2 mm. Of these, 0.8 mm is the most common choice for furniture surfaces, while 1.0-1.2 mm is suitable for worktops and heavier duty applications.
A thickness of 0.7 mm works well for light interior applications such as the interior surfaces of cabinets or wall panels where the load is low. This thickness is also an economical option for large surfaces.
The 1.0 mm thickness is a popular choice for kitchen furniture and office surfaces where good durability is required for daily use. It offers an optimal balance between durability and workability.
The thickest 1.2-1.5 mm option is suitable for public spaces, worktops and other heavy-duty surfaces. These thicknesses are highly resistant to impact and abrasion, but require professional installation.
How do you choose the right laminate thickness for your project?
The choice of thickness is based on the intended use and load. For furniture surfaces, 0.8-1.0 mm is usually sufficient, while worktops and public areas need a thickness of 1.0-1.2 mm to ensure durability.
For kitchen and bathroom furniture, a minimum thickness of 1.0 mm is recommended for moisture retention and durability requirements. For office use, 0.8-1.0 mm is sufficient for most applications.
In public areas, such as restaurants or healthcare facilities, a laminate of 1.2 mm or more is often necessary due to intensive use and cleaning requirements. Aesthetic considerations are also important - thicker laminates give a higher quality appearance.
Your budget will also influence your choice, as thicker laminates are more expensive. However, it's worth remembering that choosing the right thickness will save on repair and replacement costs in the long run.
Does the thickness of the laminate affect installation and workability?
Thickness has a significant impact workability and installation techniques. Thinner laminates are easier to cut and shape, while thicker ones require more powerful tools and more precise handling.
The choice of cutting tools depends on the thickness. 0.7-0.8 mm laminates can be cut with standard laminate saws, but 1.2 mm and thicker often need more powerful saws or a router to get a clean cut.
The treatment of the edges varies according to the thickness. Thicker laminates will show up more clearly at the edges, which requires more careful finishing or the use of edging tape. Bonding is also more important on thicker laminates to ensure even adhesion.
Installation time increases with thickness, as thicker materials require more pre-treatment and more precise fitting. However, a skilled installer can take advantage of each thickness to achieve the optimum result.
Choosing the thickness of the high pressure laminate is an important decision that affects both the quality of the end result and the success of the project. Finding the right thickness requires careful evaluation of the application, load and budget. At Lorella, we can help you find the right thickness for your project. laminate solutions and we offer expert support in material selection. Contact one of our experts for more information.