Counter TopsWe manufacture laminate counter tops with a variety of edge treatments as well as solid surface counter tops including
Corian™, Zodiaq™ and Formica™
Corian® products such as sinks and backsplashes can be perfectly integrated to create the illusion of a single, solid surface. With a cove-backsplash there are no cracks to collect dirt and moisture
Corian® wipes clean. Because Corian® is nonporous, stains can't penetrate the surface-and neither can mold, mildew, or bacteria. Corian® also resists burns and scratches.
Zodiaq™.
DuPont™ Zodiaq® is 93% pure quartz crystal, which gives Zodiaq® a natural depth and radiance without the imperfections common in unimproved stone. And because quartz is one of nature’s strongest materials, Zodiaq® is also incredibly durable and resists both heat and scratches. Custom-fit to your exact specifications and virtually maintenance free—Zodiaq® is perfect for your home, naturally.
Care & Maintence
Highly durable and functional for just about
any interior surface. A long history of advances in design and craftsmanship.
It makes dirty dishes seem almost respectable.
GRADES FINISHES SIZES
Grade 10 General Purpose Grade (HGS, Nominal Thickness .048"(1.2mm))
Grade 12 Horizontal Postforming Grade (HGP, Nominal Thickness .039"(1.0mm))
Grade 20 Vertical Postforming Grade (VGP, Nominal Thickness .028"
(0.7mm))
Grade 25 Postforming Grade (Nominal Thickness 0.038" (1.0mm))
Grade 32 Fire-Rated Vertical Grade (VGF, Nominal Thickness .032"
(0.8mm))
Grade 41 (HCS, Nominal Thickness .051" (1.3mm))
Grade 43 (HCS, Nominal Thickness .062" (1.6mm))
Grade 50 Fire-Rated General Purpose Grade (HGF, Nominal Thickness .048"(1.2mm))
Grade 51 General Purpose Grade (HGS, Nominal Thickness .050" (1.2mm))
Grade 52 General Purpose Post-Forming Grade (HGP, Nominal Thickness
.039" (1.0mm))
Grade 72 Cabinet Liner Grade (CLS, Nominal Thickness .020" (0.5mm))
Grade 87 Fire Rated Backing Sheet Grade (BLF, Nominal Thickness .028"
(0.7mm))
Grade 89 Fire Rated Backing Sheet Grade (BCF, Nominal Thickness .048"
(1.2mm))
Grade 91 Backing Sheet Grade (BKL, Nominal Thickness .020" (0.5mm))
Grade 92 Backing Sheet Grade (BKH, Nominal Thickness .048" (1.2mm))
Artisan (-43)
Chematte (-29)
Corrugation (-11)
* Matte (-58)
* Polished (-90)
* Sparkle (-42)
Weave (-12)
Etchings (-46)
Honed (-77)
3', 4', 5x8', 10', 12'
GRADE DEFINITIONS
Grade 10 General Purpose Grade (HGS, Nominal Thickness .048"(1.2mm))
The most widely specified grade; recommended for horizontal and vertical
interior applications.
Grade 12 Horizontal Postforming Grade (HGP, Nominal Thickness .039"(1.0mm))
Postformable to permit bending on suitable commercial postforming equipment.
Use whenever forming is desired for decorative or functional purposes
in interior applications. Optimum postforming temperature is 325°F
(163°C). Note: When used with a polished finish, Grade 12 is recommended
only for light duty horizontal surfaces.
Grade 20 Vertical Postforming Grade (VGP, Nominal Thickness .028"
(0.7mm))
Outside and inside radii to 3/8" (9.5mm). A forming grade designed
for vertical or light duty horizontal interior applications requiring
radiused edges. Thinner than Grade 12; excellent for postformed radii.
Installed panel width not to exceed 24" (609.6mm) maximum.
Grade 25 Postforming Grade (Nominal Thickness 0.038" (1.0mm))
intended for application to interior horizontal and vertical surfaces
where design, appearance, quality, durability and resistance to relatively
harsh acids, alkalis, corrosive salts and other destructive or staining
substances are required. Available only for Formica Chemtop chemical
resistant laminate items.
Grade 32 Fire-Rated Vertical Grade (VGF, Nominal Thickness .032"
(0.8mm))
Intended for use in vertical and horizontal interior applications which
require low flame spread ratings to conform to building codes. Classified
by Underwriter’s Laboratories, Inc. and meets most military and
marine specifications. Slightly thinner than Grade 50. Available only
for selected Fire Rated Laminate items.
Grade 41 (HCS, Nominal Thickness .051" (1.3mm))
ColorCore® surfacing material in matte finish for general purpose
interior use. Solid color throughout; eliminates the "dark line"
of standard laminates. Available only for Matte finish ColorCore®
surfacing material items.
Grade 43 (HCS, Nominal Thickness .062" (1.6mm))
ColorCore surfacing material in polished finish for vertical or light
duty horizontal interior applications. Solid color throughout; eliminates
the "dark line" of standard laminates. Available in 909 Black
and 949 White only. Available only for Polished finish ColorCore®
surfacing material items.
Grade 50 Fire-Rated General Purpose Grade (HGF, Nominal Thickness .048"(1.2mm))
Intended for use in vertical and horizontal interior applications which
require low flame spread ratings to conform to building codes. Classified
by Underwriter’s Laboratories, Inc. and meets most military and
marine specifications. Available only for selected Fire Rated Laminate
items.
Grade 51 General Purpose Grade (HGS, Nominal Thickness .050" (1.2mm))
Dimensional laminate for horizontal and vertical interior applications.
Similar in properties to Grade 10. Available only for selected Naturals
Collection items.
Grade 52 General Purpose Post-Forming Grade (HGP, Nominal Thickness
.039" (1.0mm))
Postformable to permit bending on suitable commercial postforming equipment.
Used whenever forming is desired for decorative or functional purposes
in interior applications. Similar in properties to Grade 12. Available
only for selected Naturals Collection items.
Grade 72 Cabinet Liner Grade (CLS, Nominal Thickness .020" (0.5mm))
Non-decorative surface; light duty interior use cabinet liner for balancing
and moisture control of laminate panels. Available only for Cabinet
Liners.
Grade 87 Fire Rated Backing Sheet Grade (BLF, Nominal Thickness .028"
(0.7mm))
Non-decorative surface; light duty interior use, fire-rated backing
sheet for balancing and moisture control of laminate panels. Available
only for selected Fire Rated Laminate Backing Sheet items.
Grade 89 Fire Rated Backing Sheet Grade (BCF, Nominal Thickness .048"
(1.2mm))
Non-decorative surface; general purpose interior use fire-rated backing
sheet for balancing and moisture control of laminate panels. Available
only for selected Fire Rated Laminate Backing Sheet items.
Grade 91 Backing Sheet Grade (BKL, Nominal Thickness .020" (0.5mm))
Non-decorative surface; light duty interior use backing sheet for balancing
and moisture control of laminate panels. Available only for selected
Backing Sheet items.
Grade 92 Backing Sheet Grade (BKH, Nominal Thickness .048" (1.2mm))
Non-decorative surface; general purpose interior use backing sheet for
balancing and moisture control of laminate panels. Available only for
selected Backing Sheet items.
FINISH DEFINITIONS
Artisan (-43)
A look reminiscent of the hand-rubbed, oiled finish used by craftsmen
to produce fine wood furniture and surfaces. Not recommended for heavy-duty
horizontal applications such as countertops. Available only for selected
Woodgrain Collection items.
Chematte (-29)
A matte finish slightly glossier than standard Matte (-58) which gives
Formica Chemtop its chemical resistant properties. This finish produces
laminate with a slightly different hue from its corresponding standard
laminate item. This color difference does constitute a defect. Available
only for Formica Chemtop chemical resistant laminate items.
Corrugation (-11)
A uniquely textured, linear matte finish that mimics corrugated cardboard.
The ribs have natural variations and run lengthwise on the sheet of
laminate. Recommended for vertical or light-duty horizontal applications
where cleanability is not an issue.
* Matte (-58)
A finish that imparts a warm, pleasing effect that enhances the beauty
of color and produces a greater clarity and depth.
* Polished (-90)
A high-gloss finish ideal for applications that require maximum smoothness
and reflectance. Recommended for vertical or light duty horizontal interior
applications. Not recommended for heavy-duty horizontal applications
such as countertops.
* Sparkle (-42)
A small-scale textured finish which imparts a brighter, more durable
surface.
Weave (-12)
A slightly raised intricate texture reminicent of fine woven fibers.
Available only on selected Naturals Collection items.
Etchings (-46)
A softly polished and etched surface dappled with highlights from tiny
fractures and fissures reminiscent to those found in real granite and
stone. Recommended for horizontal applications such as residential countertops
and vertical interior applications. Available only on specific stone
and granite patterns in the Etchings Finish Collection.
Honed (-77)
A low sheen satin finish with subtle surface clefts and crevices that
mimic softly brushed stone. A soft and natural finish that is appropriate
for travertines, slates, and river washed granites. Recommended for
horizontal applications such as residential countertops and vertical
interior applications. Available only on specific patterns in the Honed
Finish Collection.
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Use & Care
1.01 Quality Assurance
Formica® brand laminate is designed for beauty and durability. Like
any surfacing materials, however, it can be damaged by abuse and carelessness.
When you use it where recommended and care for it properly, it will
give you years of satisfaction.
PROTECTING THE SURFACE
Before selecting the surface material, consider the type of use it will
receive, as well as its texture, color, and reflective values. A rough-textured
surface has different advantages, depending upon use, than a smooth-textured
surface. High gloss finish laminates, for example, are not recommended
for use in heavy-duty applications such as countertops.
Scratch and Impact Protection
Formica brand laminate is resistant to scratches and impacts under normal
use conditions.
Use cutting boards, chopping blocks, or other protective surfaces.
>>Do not chop, slice, pound, or hammer on any laminate surface.
>>Knives or other sharp utensils may slice or scratch the surface.
>>Heavy blows from a hammer or meat tenderizer may crack or gouge
the surface.
>>Use place mats, doilies, and trivets on laminate surfaces when
necessary.
>>Ceramics and abrasive objects can cause scratching and premature
wear - do not slide these items across surface.
Follow recommendations for cleaning - do not use abrasive cleaners,
powders, steel wool, sandpaper, or Scotch-Brite® scouring pads (see
Cleaning section).
Hot Objects
Cookware still hot from the stove or oven, as well as electric skillets,
waffle irons, curling irons, and hot rollers, should not be placed directly
on laminate surfaces. Prolonged exposure to temperatures of 140°F
(60°C) or higher may cause the laminate to separate from the core
material.
Use a trivet, insulated hot pad or other protective device beneath all hot cookware, heat generating appliances, or other heated objects.
Formica brand laminate can withstand heat up to 275°F (135°C)
for short periods of time.
Avoid ironing or placing a hot iron on laminate surfaces. Do not place
lighted cigarettes directly on laminate surfaces.
ORDINARY CLEANING
Formica® brand laminate is very easy to clean.
>>In most cases, you only need to use a clean, damp, nonabrasive
cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner.
>>Rinse with clean water, using a clean, nonabrasive cotton cloth.
>>Do not flood the laminate, especially near seams, since water
can penetrate and cause the substrate to swell.
>>Dry the surface with a soft, clean, nonabrasive cotton cloth.
For specific types of surfaces, use the following care guidelines.
Matte and Sparkle Finish Laminate
Especially hard-to-clean areas may require special attention. Use a
nylon-bristled hand or vegetable brush, along with a mild liquid detergent-and-water
solution or household cleaner. Clean the soiled area, using a rotating
motion. Rinse and dry the surface as indicated above.
Sculptured and Dimensional Finish Laminate
These surfaces may require special attention to clean the depressed
areas. Use a nylon-bristled hand or vegetable brush, along with a mild
liquid detergent-and-water solution or household cleaner. Clean the
soiled area, using a rotating motion. Rinse and dry the surface as indicated
above.
High-Gloss Finish Laminate
If residual streaks and smears remain after normal cleaning, use a mild
glass cleaner and then dry with a clean, non-abrasive cotton cloth.
CHEMICAL DAMAGE
Never use cleaners containing acid, alkali, or sodium hypochlorite.
These cleaners will mar, etch, corrode, and permanently discolor the
laminate surface. Also, make sure that bottles, rags, and other materials
contaminated with these cleaners never contact the laminate surface.
Examples of cleaners containing acid, alkaline, or sodium hypochlorite
include, but are not limited to:
drain cleaners
metal cleaners
oven cleaners
ceramic cooktop cleaners rust removers
tub and tile cleaners
toilet bowl cleaners
some countertop cleaners coffeepot cleaners
chlorine bleach
lime scale removers
SPECIAL CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS
Residual Glue
Sometimes new decorative laminate has a streaky appearance caused by
contact adhesive used during fabrication. Clean with a non-abrasive
cotton cloth and an adhesive solvent such as Formica® brand Nonflammable
Contact Adhesive Solvent. Use solvent sparingly, as excessive amounts
may delaminate edges. Read and follow all warnings and instructions
on the labels of all solvent products.
Paint and Varnish
Remove most oil-based paints, varnishes and lacquers from decorative
laminate surfaces with a suitable solvent. Read and follow all warnings
and instructions on the labels of all solvent products, and remember
that most solvents are extremely flammable. Use solvent sparingly, as
excessive amounts may delaminate edges. Remove most water-based paints
with an ammoniated household cleaner. For stubborn paint spots, gently
use a plastic, non-metallic, non-abrasive pad. Never use steel wool
or other abrasive scouring pads.
Stains
To remove or minimize stains, use full strength Fantastik® All Purpose
Cleaner, Formula 409,® Pine-Sol® or other mild household cleaner
on the affected area, and allow it to draw out the stain. Blot with
a clean, damp, non-abrasive cotton cloth, and then rinse with clean
water. When a recommended cleaner changes its formulation, the change
may be harmful to the laminate surface. Formica Corporation cannot be
held responsible for these changes. Solvents such as denatured alcohol
can also be used. Follow all directions and warnings on the solvent
label because many are extremely flammable.
Stubborn or "fugitive" stains that may disappear on their
own, after a short time or after repeated cleanings, include: food stains
glass rings food dyes
water marks coffee and tea stains fingerprints
Stains which are stubborn or even permanent, and may not disappear,
include: wood stains cash register inks indelible inks
newsprint marking pen inks food pricing ink
label inks
Some materials and liquids, such as dyes and pharmaceutical products,
will permanently stain laminate. Examples include: hair dyes and rinses
silver nitrate laundry bluing
tannic acid Mercurochrome® povidone-iodine
dermatological tar compounds peroxide
These stains may be reduced by applying a paste of baking soda and water
on the area to pull out the stain. The paste will be slightly abrasive,
so do not rub. Wipe up the paste with a clean, damp, non-abrasive cotton
cloth, and then rinse with clean water.
Periodic application of a self-cleaning wax can help minimize future staining.
Scotch-Brite® is a registered trademark of 3M Company. Fantastik
is a registered trademark of DowBrands Inc. Formula 409® and Pine-Sol®
are registered trademarks of The Clorox Company. Mercurochrome is a
licensed
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DuPont Zodiaq® quartz surfaces are very easy to maintain. The quartz used in Zodiaq® - coupled with high-performance, stain-resistant polymers - results in a durable, nonporous, chemical-resistant surface. Zodiaq® is also heat- and scratch-resistant, but not heat- and scratch-proof. Therefore, the use of a cutting board is recommended when using a knife.
Of course, Zodiaq® keeps its lustrous gloss and ultra-smooth surface without polishing. Because it is nonporous, Zodiaq® does not require sealants or waxes.
Zodiaq® also gives you peace of mind. In the unlikely event that you do experience any problems due to a manufacturer's defect, you can rest assured that DuPont backs Zodiaq® with a 10-year limited warranty.
Routine Care
With simple care, Zodiaq® will retain its radiant, lustrous appearance for many years. For routine cleaning, use a damp cloth or paper towel and, if necessary, a small amount of non-bleach, nonabrasive cleanser.
Even though Zodiaq® resists permanent staining when exposed to liquids (such as wine, vinegar, tea, lemon juice and soda) or fruits and vegetables, wipe up food and liquid spills as soon as possible.
For stubborn or dried spills, use a nonabrasive cleaning pad such as a white 3M Scotch-Brite®* scrub pad coupled with Formula 409® Glass & Surface Cleaner** or a comparable cleaning product.
Avoid using cleansers that contain bleach. Always follow the cleaner manufacturer's use instructions and exercise proper care when handling and storing any cleaning products.
* Scotch-Brite® is a registered trademark of the 3M Company.
**Formula 409® Glass & Surface Cleaner is a registered trademark of the Clorox Company.
Preventing Heat and Other Damage
Zodiaq® can withstand exposure to normal cooking temperatures from pots, pans and dishes without being damaged. To maintain the beauty of Zodiaq®, do not place hot skillets or roasting pans directly onto the surface. DuPont recommends the use of trivets and hot pads.
Removing Difficult Spills
Sometimes spills occur and dry on the countertop. For materials that harden as they dry (such as gum, food, grease, nail polish or paint), remove by gently scraping away the excess with a plastic putty knife.
Permanent markers and inks may adhere to the surface and should be avoided. Should these agents come into contact with the surface, clean first as outlined in Routine Care.
If the stain persists, moisten a cloth with Greased LightningT**, or a comparable product and rub it into the stain. Let the cleaning agent sit for 15 minutes and wipe the surface clean with a cotton cloth. Rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaner residue.
Avoid exposing Zodiaq® quartz surfaces to strong chemicals and solvents, especially paint removers or furniture strippers containing trichlorethane or methylene chloride. Keep nail polish remover, bleach, bluing, permanent markers or inks, and oil soaps away from Zodiaq®.
While casual exposure to alkaline materials will not damage Zodiaq®, highly alkaline (high-pH) cleansers are not recommended when cleaning Zodiaq®.
If any of the substances listed above come into Zodiaq®, rinse
the exposed surface immediately and thoroughly with water.
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