PVC laminate is the best decorative laminate used for modular kitchens, wardrobes, and furniture. These are supremely durable and long-lasting. They are used extensively in the interiors and office spaces to create a luxurious outlook. In addition, their moisture-resistant properties make them perfect to cover kitchen cabinets.
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What are PVC laminates?
PVC laminates are manufactured by layering multiple layers of paper and plastic resin and compressing them together in sturdy laminate sheets. They are used as a decorative layer to envelop raw surfaces like MDF and plywood. Numerous laminate manufacturer in India produce varieties of PVC laminates suitable for designing different parts of your house.
Properties of PVC laminates
- These are thin laminate sheets that range from 0.05 mm to 2 mm in thickness.
- They can be bent up to 90° and are quite flexible to work with.
- Different colors, patterns, and textures like wood, stone, and leather are available in metal, gloss, and ultra-gloss finishes.
- PVC laminates are resistant to water, corrosion, and heat. They can also be manufactured to have antibacterial properties.
- They are durable, long-lasting, and economical compared to other lamination sheets.
- They are also scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
Suitable surfaces to use PVC laminates
These decorative laminate sheets are widely used in,
- Kitchen cabinet units and modular kitchen.
- Wardrobes.
- Bathroom Units.
- Office Cabbinetaries.
- Wall Panels.
- Conference Rooms.
- Furniture.
- Hospitals and laboratories.
- Showrooms.
How to take care of PVC laminates?
Although these PVC lamination sheets are low maintenance, there are some steps you need to follow to improve their longevity,
- Remember, they are scratch-resistant, not stain-resistant. To clean PVC laminate sheets, use any mild liquid detergent and wipe with a soft cotton cloth.
- Acetone is a reliable solvent to remove stains. A homemade solution would be a mixture of water and baking soda.
- Dampness can leave blotches on the surface of the laminate or make it warp. Dry it manually after cleaning.
- In case of any accidental spilling, wipe it off immediately.
- Do not use varnish, wax, or polish to clean these sheets. They are not real wood. Avoid harsh chemicals or acids as well.
- Try and avoid cleaners that leave a residue.
- Avoid wet wipes for furniture as it has low chances of staining. Only dust it with a vacuum or a microfibre cloth.
- Keep sharp objects away to avoid scratches.
DOs you need to follow for PVC laminate installation.
- Read the instructions carefully in tha manual provided by the laminate manufacturer.
- Clear the room for at least 48 hours before installing the laminate sheets, as it will give you a good idea about the room temperature.
- Clean the surface and prepare it well before installation.
- Use laminate underlayment to set the laminate properly on the surface.
- Keep taping the seams of underlayment while you lay the laminate sheet.
- Make sure you leave at least ⅜ inches.
- Sway rows of at least a width of at least a plank from each other.
- Use a Universal Installation Kit to tighten joints and speed up the installation process.
- Keep the size of the expansion gap the same throughout. You can use small laminate pieces for this as scrapers.
- Inspect every plank properly to avoid damage later.
DON’Ts for PVC laminate installation
- Do not install PVC laminate on floors with a drain.
- Ensure to avoid installation of laminate on any uneven or rigged subfloor.
- Avoid installing laminate on a surface that is constantly exposed to dampness or extreme conditions of humidity.
- It is recommended not to use these lamination sheets over a residential carpet.
- Do not cut the laminate from anywhere while installing it.
- Do not install using a double layer of laminate underlayment, as it can end up separating the planks.
- Use a transition for laminate installation through openings that are less than 48 inches.
- Remember not to cut the back of the laminate sheet because it can destroy the decorative layer.
- Avoid nailing wall base molding and quarter rounds to the floor.
Things to consider before installing PVC laminate
- Carefully research on factors like the look, feel, texture, maintenance, cost, and suitability to understand your needs.
- Metal or high gloss laminate sheets give a premium, modern look to the kitchen. The matte ones have a less amount of reflective sheen. Gloss sheets are more expensive, and the matte ones are easier to clean.
- The texturedlaminate sheetsare beautiful to look at and are scratch-resistant but, they are very difficult to clean due to their slightly uneven surfaces.
- Choose the antibacterial laminate sheet if you want to install them in your kitchen.
The advantages outweigh the disadvantages of using PVC laminates. They are great interior designs and are extremely cost-effective. You can always contact your laminate manufacturer if you face trouble while installing. Royale Touche, one of the best laminate brand in India, provides you with numerous varieties of lamination sheets and guides you to select the required sheet according to your needs Read More
