MATERIALS & FINISHES

MELAMINE
Melamine is regarded as a practical and economic door finish. These days laminate is known for its durability- look for High Moisture Resistant Board (HMR). Optional PVC edges can be used as they further protect from chipping and moisture. In addition, the melamine range offers an incredibly interesting and exciting selection of colours and finishes.
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VACUUM SEALED
Vacuum Sealed is arguably one of the most durable door finishes currently available with the added option of having a profile on the door. The vinyl is wrapped around the door (including all edges) and then heat-sealed. The range offers either a textured, wood-grain look or high gloss finish in a wide selection of colours.
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TIMBER VENEER
Timber Veneer is definitely back in vogue with a large selection of timbers species/ colours available. For durability, once again look for the 16mm High Moisture Resistant Board (HMR) and that veneer is then sealed with a clear Sealer and clear Laquer. Edges in solid timber are also an option for further protection of knocks and chips.
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POLYURETHANE
Polyurethane is known for its durability and easy cleaning. It is a combination of paint and polyurethane – sprayed on Medium Density Fibre Board (MDF). To get a good finish and gloss level at least 4 coats are required. It can be colour matched to any colour on the paint charts as well as plain colour laminate chips and is available in either high gloss or satin finish.
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SOLID TIMBER
Timber doors have been around for a long time and remain very popular. Timber being a natural product is logged from forests all over the world (through responsible forest management and conservation) and is subject to subtle colour and grain variations. Timber doors can be stained, lime washed or even hand painted (if the natural colour doesn’t suit) and there are numerous profiles depending on the look you want to achieve- be it traditional or modern. Once again, ensure the timber is sealed with a clear Sealer and Laquered finish to protect from heat and moisture.
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LAMINATE
Laminate is a practical and hardwearing surface. The textured finish is particularly durable and was exclusively developed for bench tops. There are a number of different edges available, the most popular being the rounded edge (bullnose) and of course the selection of colours is endless.
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GRANITE
Granite is magnificent to look at, functional and hard wearing. It is a natural material- polished stone-and therefore slightly porous. To avoid staining ensure that any liquid spills are promptly removed. Depending on where the granite is quarried there will be colour and grain variations so it is advisable to select your own slab. There are numerous styles of edges to choose from available in either 20mm or 40mm.
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CORIAN
Corian is considered the ‘Rolls Royce’ of benchtops and this is reflected in the price. It is a non-porous acrylic surface.
The bench tops can be completely moulded - that means no visible joins anywhere! (Sinks and splash-backs in Corian can also be incorporated). Corian is the only bench top surface on which you can use fine steel wool or sand0aper to erase most accidental damage. It comes in a variety of colours with inlays of other colours possible. Beware, there are many other acrylic surfaces but none of which are good.
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TIMBER
Timber bench tops look stunning- be it in traditional or ultra modern kitchens. Small, select pieces of timber are glued together ensuring little movement (expansion or contraction) of the bench tops occurring. Colour variations do occur, as timber is a natural product. There are two kinds of finishes available to seal the timber. Country Oil- a combination of Urethane and Oil Polyurethane – which is usually, applied in two coats. There is extensive rubbing back between coats to not only ensuring a perfectly smooth finish but which also protects the timber grain from absorbing grease, grime and moisture.
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