Compact laminate worktops information guide.
Our featured compact worktop brands: Aria, Duropal, Spectra, Fenix, Zenith, and Kronospan all contain compact worktops within their extensive ranges.
What are compact laminate worktops made of?
Compact worktops are available in 12-20mm thickness. Zenith for example is made up of a black core created from layers of kraft paper impregnated with phenolic resin, a decorative paper is then placed on either side along with an overlay paper and impregnated with melamine resin to create a durable, waterproof, and stylish worksurface.
A compact laminate worktop (sometimes called solid laminate) is an extremely versatile worktop. Compact worktops can be fitted in bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and many more areas. They are 100% waterproof.
The benefits of compact:
- Unlike a normal laminate worktop with its chipboard core, with compact worktops an under-mount sink can be installed, creating a streamlined design effect. You can even install drainer grooves into the surface due to its solid core which creates a sleek finish.
- Compact worktops can also be used as cabinet cladding due to the decorative design on both sides and its thinness
- Coordinated open shelving is also a popular option to fit with modern open-plan designs, make use of any offcuts or purchase additional material to achieve this look.
Is specialist tooling required for compact worktops?
No – the same tooling as basic worktop installation is all that is required to fit Zenith solid laminate worktops, including; handheld routers, drills, sanders, jig saws and blades, worktop jig, hand-held circular saws, extraction units, clamps, biscuit joint machine, and biscuits. Additional pieces may be needed for sink installation and most manufacturers have an installation kit that can be purchased.
Compact worktops create a very modern look and with all the in-trend designs now available they are a very desirable addition to any room.
Our do's and dont's guide for compact laminate based on issues our customers may have encountered:
Do: Store correctly; when you receive your worktop. It is important to store correctly by laying the worktops, splashback, or upstands flat on the floor and preferably in the room they are going to be fitted. If there is more than one worktop use bearers between each top to seperate. This will avoid bowing. Please see our info regarding bowing and correcting worktops.
Don't: Sand the surface. Compact laminate is still a laminated surface and any trauma, damage, or sanding to the surface during installation will cause damage. After installation, it is important to use chopping boards.
What if my worktop gets damaged? Unfortunately, unlike solid surface worktops, the surface of compact laminate cannot be restored.
Please view the slimline section on our website to view the different brands and ranges available. Nationwide delivery on most brands. https://www.solidsurfacekitchens.co.uk/slimline-surfaces-307-c.asp