Formica® Compact Grade laminates are well suited to wet area applications such as shower cubicles or swimming pool lockers, providing that certain safeguards are observed.
Compact Grade laminates will withstand frequent wetting with hot or cold water, and/or prolonged exposure to high humidity, but are not recommended for applications involving long-term total immersion.
Use only CGS (standard) Compact Grade laminates in wet areas, as the hygroscopic nature of flame-retardant additives may give rise to surface blisters on CGF laminates if they are exposed to wet conditions for long periods.
In common with all other high-pressure decorative laminates, Compact Grade laminates undergo a certain amount of dimensional movement when subjected to changes in humidity. To minimise the risk of bowing as a result of this movement, observe the following points.
1. Cut panels with the long edge parallel to the length of the sheet. Dimensional movement across the width of the sheet is twice as great as it is along the length, so cutting panels with the long dimension running across the width of the sheet greatly increases the risk of bowing.
2. As far as possible, the ambient conditions should be the same on each side of the panel, as it is important that both sides gain or lose moisture at roughly the same rate. Where panels are mounted on a wall or enclose a vanity unit, provide adequate ventilation to ensure that temperature and humidity conditions at the backs of the panels are essentially the same as those at the front.
3. Make fixing centres sufficiently close to prevent excessive freedom of movement. Shower cubicle doors greater than 1500mm high should have three hinges.
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