Formica Decometal

FORMICA DECOMETAL
METAL LAMINATE AND SOLID MATERIAL

Q. What is Formica DecoMetal metal laminate?

A. Formica DecoMetal metal laminate is high pressure phenolic laminate with a decorative metal foil face, protected by an anodized or lacquer finish.

Q. What is Formica DecoMetal solid metal?

A. Formica DecoMetal solid metal is 0.025" (0.7mm) thick aluminum sheet stock with a decorative anodized or lacquered surface.

Q. What is the difference between Formica DecoMetal metal laminate and Formica DecoMetal solid metal?

A. The phenolic backing of Formica DecoMetal metal laminate gives it similar handling and fabricating characteristics of regular high pressure laminate (HPL). Formica DecoMetal solid metal does not have a phenolic backing, which makes it less impact resistant. DecoMetal solid metal is typically used when it is not desirable to see the brown line from the backer.

Q. How durable is the finish of Formica DecoMetal metal laminate and solid metal and where can they be used?

A. Both materials are intended for light duty horizontal and vertical interior applications. As with any metal surface, DecoMetal products may scratch and are not recommended for high wear applications such as countertops or for use in high heat or moist areas such as backsplashes. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents which may attack the protective lacquer.

Q. Can Formica DecoMetal metal laminate and solid metal be formed?

A. Metal laminates can be formed to an 8" (20cm) radius. Do not use heat. Solid metals can be roll formed using conventional metal forming techniques. Some aluminum products are available in postforming grade as a factory order.

Q. If I want to use metal for a decorative edge treatment, do I need to buy a whole sheet of material?

A. No. Solid metal strips are offered in pre-cut 120" (304cm) length strips in widths from 3/4" to 6" (19.1 to 152.4mm) that are ideal for architectural details and countertop edge details.

Q. Do DecoMetal items move with changes in humidity or temperature?

A. Metal laminates move with changes in humidity, but less than standard high pressure laminate. Solid metals move with changes in temperature.

Q. What adhesives can be used with DecoMetal items?

A. The phenolic backed metal laminates can be adhered with contact, PVAc or rigid set adhesive. Do not hot press. Solid metals should be bonded with contact adhesive. Mirror finishes will telegraph uneven glue lines or a rough substrate; use spray contact adhesive on these items.