Melamine

Definition

A plastic laminate made by fusing a resin-impregnated surface material under heat and pressure into a dense, 5/8" board. It has superior scratch and water resistance and is not prone to delamination.

Purpose

Melamine is used to provide a durable, scratch-resistant, and water-resistant surface for various applications. Its resistance to wear and moisture makes it ideal for furniture, cabinetry, and countertops.

Examples of Use

• Furniture: Covering particleboard or MDF to create desks, tables, and shelves.
• Cabinetry: Providing a durable surface for kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
• Countertops: Offering a hard-wearing surface for kitchen and office countertops.

Related Terms

• Laminate: A material created by bonding layers together, often used to describe surfaces like melamine.
• Particleboard: A type of engineered wood made from wood chips and resin, often covered with melamine.
• Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): An engineered wood product made of compressed wood fibers, frequently used with melamine.

Notes

• Melamine surfaces are easy to clean and maintain.
• It is available in various colors and patterns, allowing for versatile design options.
• Proper handling is necessary to avoid chipping or cracking the edges during installation.