Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
The information provided by Arpa Industriale S.p.A. ("Arpa") in this document is solely indicative. Arpa is unable to warrant the accuracy and completeness of this information. No rights can be derived from the information provided; the use of the information is at the other party's risk and responsibility.
This document does not guarantee any properties of Arpa's products.
8. Applications
1. What precautions are recommended for applications intended for dry or wet environments?
The success of applications intended for particularly dry or wet environments depends essentially on the choice of substrate and proper pre-conditioning of the materials. Where there are variations in humidity it is essential that the panel is symmetrical on both sides and that the humidity conditions are as similar as possible for both faces. Bear in mind that, as regards dimensional changes due to wet conditions, the laminate is similar to wood, so products need to be designed using appropriate adhesives, leaving adequate moisture escape routes and making screw holes a little larger. For information, please refer to Customer Service.
2. Are there recommended decors and/or finishes for particular applications?
The choice of pattern and/or finish is important both from an aesthetic and functional aspect. There are big differences, for example, between a worktop potentially subject to heavy wear and tear, a small vertical door of a little used piece of furniture and a building façade subjected to the weather, heat and sunlight! In general we can say that surfaces with more textured surface finishes and lighter colours offer better performance in terms of scratch resistance and abrasion than dark and glossy ones. Equally, smooth surfaces or those with a fine texture are easier to clean than those that are heavily and deeply textured. For information, please refer to Customer Service.
3. Can the laminate be applied directly to the walls that are to be clad?
Absolutely not if they are functioning, plastered or painted walls, for many reasons: because of the natural surface irregularities that do not allow good adhesion, because of the moisture released from the bare wall, because adhesives do not perform well when hand-applied to plaster and because the dimensional movement of HPL, which differs from that of the wall, would create stresses and possible cracking. To prevent the laminate warping, it is good practice and an indispensable rule "to let it breathe", isolating it from possible sources of moisture. In conclusion, the laminate must be applied to a framework or support that is then fixed to the wall.
4. Can HPL be used for signage?
Yes. Digital technology makes it possible to incorporate any kind of sign or wording, with perfect results. For information please contact Customer Service.
The success of applications intended for particularly dry or wet environments depends essentially on the choice of substrate and proper pre-conditioning of the materials. Where there are variations in humidity it is essential that the panel is symmetrical on both sides and that the humidity conditions are as similar as possible for both faces. Bear in mind that, as regards dimensional changes due to wet conditions, the laminate is similar to wood, so products need to be designed using appropriate adhesives, leaving adequate moisture escape routes and making screw holes a little larger. For information, please refer to Customer Service.
2. Are there recommended decors and/or finishes for particular applications?
The choice of pattern and/or finish is important both from an aesthetic and functional aspect. There are big differences, for example, between a worktop potentially subject to heavy wear and tear, a small vertical door of a little used piece of furniture and a building façade subjected to the weather, heat and sunlight! In general we can say that surfaces with more textured surface finishes and lighter colours offer better performance in terms of scratch resistance and abrasion than dark and glossy ones. Equally, smooth surfaces or those with a fine texture are easier to clean than those that are heavily and deeply textured. For information, please refer to Customer Service.
3. Can the laminate be applied directly to the walls that are to be clad?
Absolutely not if they are functioning, plastered or painted walls, for many reasons: because of the natural surface irregularities that do not allow good adhesion, because of the moisture released from the bare wall, because adhesives do not perform well when hand-applied to plaster and because the dimensional movement of HPL, which differs from that of the wall, would create stresses and possible cracking. To prevent the laminate warping, it is good practice and an indispensable rule "to let it breathe", isolating it from possible sources of moisture. In conclusion, the laminate must be applied to a framework or support that is then fixed to the wall.
4. Can HPL be used for signage?
Yes. Digital technology makes it possible to incorporate any kind of sign or wording, with perfect results. For information please contact Customer Service.