PVC Cabinet Board Application

Melamine is considered, and often referred to as, a direct or low pressure laminate (LPL) because it is manufactured with a pressure of 300-500 pounds-per-square-inch. Layers of paper are saturated with a melamine resin until they are converted into a solid, plastic surface via thermal fusion. The melamine sheets are molded together as one of the layers of plastic laminate, which is then bonded together with particleboard or to another backing material to create a durable plastic sheet, which is PVC cabinet board is used to give products such as Formica an attractive surface.

Available in a wide selection of textures and natural wood grains, melamine panels are a cost-effective, multipurpose option for adding color and finishes to designs and projects. Generally sold already attached to the particleboard, melamine is durable, scratch and shatter resistant, and waterproof. Granted, while the material itself is waterproof, if water gets into the particle board underneath, it could cause the melamine to warp. Additionally, even though melamine is very sturdy, if it’s not installed properly, the particle board can bear damage and cause the melamine to chip. Because it has voids on the ends, melamine will require an edge-banding to cover the area. Projects constructed with melamine generally have up to a five-year lifespan.

 

[Simran Rai]

Melamine is a type of low-pressure laminate (LPL), created by thermally fusing layers of paper saturated with melamine resin under 300–500 psi. Once solidified into a plastic surface, it is bonded to a backing material like particleboard to produce durable panels used in furniture, cabinetry, and surfaces like Formica. Melamine panels are praised for their affordability, variety of colors and textures, scratch and shatter resistance, and waterproof surface. However, moisture infiltration into the underlying particleboard can lead to warping, and improper installation may result in chipping. Edge-banding is typically needed to seal the exposed edges. While melamine is a practical and stylish choice, particularly for budget-conscious designs, its average product lifespan is around five years. Proper installation and care are crucial to maximizing its durability and aesthetic appeal in both residential and commercial applications.​