Decorative & Solid Surfacing Jan 09

decorative

&

surfaces

The Perfection of a Super Matt Paint Look.

David Clouting Ltd. Perry Road, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Tel: 01376 518037 Fax: 01376 500104 Email: sales@davidclouting.co.uk Web: www.davidclouting.co.uk

New EGGER Worktop Range Offers the Latest in Style, Design and Performance

Above: Eurolight 60 mm worktop in Platinum White (W980 ST82) with Hacienda Black (H3081 ST22) MFC doors.

Below: Eurolight 60 mm worktop in Platinum White (W980 ST82)

The addition of super-thick, super-light EUROLIGHT® Worktops to its new range of stylish and durable kitchen worktops is proof of EGGER UK’s responsiveness to the anticipation of market trends.

EUROLIGHT® worktops are a significant introduction for the kitchen industry and have been developed following an increasing demand for thicker work surfaces.

Kitchen specifiers and designers now have a choice of thicknesses in EGGER’s new worktop range, which also features a combination of the very latest decor trends alongside mainstream classics, to find favour in both ultra modern and traditional kitchens.

The 38mm EUROSPAN® Worktops (chipboard core) and 60mm EUROLIGHT® Worktops (cardboard honeycomb core) are available to provide customers with both aesthetic and practical options.

A key benefit of the EUROLIGHT® 60mm worktops to fitters and installers is their weight – approximately 41% lighter than traditional 38mm chipboard worktops. This makes them easier to handle, transport and install. The rigid honeycomb core and sandwich construction uses surface layers of the very robust Eurospan® 2000 thin chipboard which means there is no compromise in stability or quality.

Designs and styles which offer the perception of high value, in thicknesses which previously would have been impractical, can be created using EUROLIGHT® and will be of huge interest to end consumers.

As the market leader in the very latest décor trends for melamine faced chipboard, EGGER has used its renowned design competence to create its new worktop range.

The new range has an exciting choice of 18 decors available in both thicknesses and includes the latest trends in colour and texture, ranging from white, oxidised metal to exotic woods, which sit alongside a selection of the best contemporary themes, such as butcher block woods, granite and terrazzo.

EGGER has also developed an innovative range of accessories for EUROLIGHT® worktops, including worktop connector bolts, a sink and hob installation system and a hard wearing, robust worktop template for ease of use.

EGGER is taking its service to another level with the new range. To help kitchen fitters and designers get to grips with these new EUROLIGHT® 60mm worktops EGGER has invested a great deal of time and money in creating comprehensive, step-by-step fitting instructions. There is also a dedicated sample hotline where brochures, swatches and point of sale materials can be ordered.

EGGER has also engineered the surface texture of each worktop to individually offer the most realistic reproduction possible, both visually and to the touch. For example EGGER’s Perfect Matt ST9 texture is a smooth, matt finish which reproduces the feel of concrete, sandstone and wood veneer, whilst its Granito ST82 texture is deep and undulating similar to that of a sandblasted granite surface.

The new range has also undergone rigorous industry testing and has been awarded the prestigious FIRA Gold Award. The surface of all the worktops in the range consist of a decorative laminate, which conforms to the EN438 standard to guarantee a hard wearing surface, which is highly resistant to abrasion, impact and household stains.

EGGER has set up a UK and Ireland distributor network to supply worktops quickly and in smaller volumes. The following distributors are currently in place: Tayfirth Laminates (Scotland), Décor Panel (Northern England), Blackheath Laminates (Midlands/Southern England), KBB (N.Ireland and Republic of Ireland) and Cookstown Panel Centre (N.Ireland).

To view the range or find out more visit www.egger.co.uk or contact Andrew Sanderson, Product Manager: Tel: 01434 613360 Fax: 01434 613302 Email: andrew.sanderson@egger.co.uk Sample hotline 01434 613304

January 2009 This supplement is targeted at kitchen/furniture designers, manufacturers and specifiers within the KBB industry including shopfitters, exhibition stand builders and purchasers of decorative surfaces.

Further supplements will be published and circulated with Panel Production throughout 2009.

Products to be features in future issues will include Laminates, Veneers, Foils, MFC, Marble, Granite, Glass, Stone, Acrylic, Edging and wood-based material and products.

creativity

unlimited

LG HI-MACS® Natural Acryllic Stone™ - Engineered to be the new standard

Published by EC Media Ltd Tel/Fax: 020 8366 3331 Email: panelproduction@btconnect.com Website: www.panelproduction.com Publisher: Ernie Hollister Designer: Ian Curtis Printer: The Magazine Printing company Reproduction of any material appearing in the supplement is strictly by copyright – no part of this publication may be copied or transmitted in any form whatsoever including photography without the prior consent of the publisher. ©COPYRIGHT – EC MEDIA LTD PUBLISHED AS A SUPPLEMENT WITH PANEL PRODUCTION

CONTENTS New Egger worktop range offers the latest in style, design and performance

IFC

David Clouting Ltd – UK distributor for LG Chem introduce three new product ranges Bellisimo – brings a touch of ‘Glass’ to interiors Add a touch of Finesse

LG HI-MACS® Natural Acrylic Stone™ , manufactured by LG Chem and supplied by James Latham Plc, is ideal for many domestic and commercial sectors, including healthcare, education, shopfitting and catering. The range features a colour offering of over 60 decors, including the ‘Solid Colours’ and ‘Volcanics’ collections, with LG DecoBowl™ , LG DecoSink™ and LG Shower Trays™ also on offer.

• Available in 6, 9 and 12mm • Extensive stock holding

• LGA hygiene certificate • Samples and

p4-5

• Customer colour matching, two pallets only

• Product specialists at all

p6

• Special sizes available

• Discounts available on

• 15 year limited installed warranty

• Adhesives, adhesive guns,

countrywide

p6

• Technical support and Solid hardwood worktops John Boddy Timber

p7

High gloss laminate used for new Glasgow Casino

p8

training available

literature available

James Latham depots showroom displays

mixer nozzles and counter top cleaner also supplied

ALL PRODUCTS ARE OFFERED EX STOCK OR WITHIN SEVEN DAYS FROM THE EUROPEAN DISTRIBUTION CENTRE For futher information please contact the James Latham Marketing Department

Alchemy and nature inspire 3 form’s stunning material platforms

p9

Kronospan unveils fresh new collection for 2009

p9

EDP – delivering even more

p10

Great impressions in Duropal’s latest worktops

p10

A class act on the worktop scene

IBC

Benefits of Hi-Macs®

OBC

0116 257 3415

fax: 0116 281 3806 e-mail: marketing@lathams.co.uk web: www.lathamtimber.co.uk

www.lgchemeurope.com James Latham Marketing Department Chartwell Drive, Off West Avenue, Wigston, Leicester, LE18 2FN

January 2009 | Decorative & Solid Surfacing 3

intro David Clouting is a distributor of various sheet materials. Established in 1985. We are now a leading supplier into the UK domestic furniture market.

/* 1XWUH[ÂŒ Nutrex 3D forming PVC veneers are available in a range of Ă€nishes to ensure that kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living and commercial areas can be designed where the product compliments and adds to the visual experience.

2D versions of the vinyls are available for proÀle wrapping. Applied to MDF, Nutrex expands the possibilities of furniture design.

“Versatile Fashionable Vinyls�

Three new product introductions in 2008 has enabled us to develop an exciting range for the commercial and domestic sectors.

A signiÀcant relationship began in 1996. when LG Chem appointed David Clouting as its UK distributor for LG Nutrex PVC Àlms. Nutrex is a range of 2D and 3D thermo-formable vinyls in high gloss, printed and solid colour Ànishes.

With LG Chem’s technical advances and investment in product development and our market expertise, Nutrex has become a leading brand product in the UK furniture industry.

To continue the great success we are pleased to announce the launch of two new Àlms from LG Chem and a high gloss Acrylic Sheet from EGR: ‡ *ODVHQ D VSHFLDO LQWHULRU Àlm that laminates to the back of glass. Perfect for both domestic and commercial markets.

/* 1XWUH[Œ

3UHPLXP +LJK *ORVV

/* 1XWUH[Œ

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‡ %HQLI D UDQJH RI VHOI DGKHVLYH LQWHULRU Àlms aimed at the commercial and shop Àtting sectors. ‡ =HQROLWH D PP WKLFN KLJK JORVV DFU\OLF sheet multi-purpose product.

David Clouting Ltd. Perry Road, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Tel: 01376 518037 Fax: 01376 500104 Email: sales@davidclouting.co.uk Web: www.davidclouting.co.uk

Premium High Gloss was introduced Woodgrain designs are the most in 2008 in response to the increasing realistic available, available in three demand for quality high gloss kitchens, different grades: bedrooms and bathrooms. “Mirain� grade introduces 3D visual A new manufacturing line, installed prints. The printing technique takes

by LG, ensured a high quality high PVC gravure printing to a new level gloss product is produced, with of realism. “Mirain� is world class capacity available to ensure that and provides the most realistic customers are serviced with standard representation of wood veneer. stock and make to order lead-times.

Premium Woodgrains: Pearlescent printing has been a major success Key beneďŹ ts of Premium High Gloss: for woodgrain designs and remains highly popular in looking for ‡ 6XSHUE WKHUPDO VWDELOLW\ LQ KLJK authenticity and a natural look. temperature Standard Woodgrains are widely ‡ ([FHOOHQW JORVV\ VXUIDFH DIWHU used and Ă€nd their niche in budget forming ‡ ,PSURYHG VSHFXODU VXUIDFH TXDOLW\ ranges where contemporary looks are combined with durable lacquer - reduced “orange peelâ€? effect. and emboss combinations.

/* *ODVHQ Glasen is bringing specialised printing technology to glass Àlms for the ÀUVW WLPH ,W SURYLGHV LQ FRQMXQFWLRQ ZLWK glass, the ultimate high gloss product in both looks and surface performance.

Glasen from LG is a special interior Àlm that laminates to the back of a single sheet of glass.

There is a range of stunning designs that revolutionise how decorative glass can be used.

High pearl printing gives a wonderful 3D effect to provide a high quality product that consumers will aspire to.

Suitable for both domestic and commercial markets, typical applications are: 6SODVKEDFNV .LWFKHQ DQG %HGURRP GRRUV :DOO 3DQHOV :RUN VXUIDFHV 7DEOH WRSV +HDGERDUGV

“The Ultimate High Gloss Product�

/* %HQLI %HQLI LV D UDQJH RI VHOI DGKHVLYH LQWHULRU Àlms developed for the commercial and shop Àtting sectors that provides a total redecoration solution. %HQLI SURYLGHV WKH FDSDELOLW\ RI HQWLUH URRP VXUIDFHV WR be styled and modiÀed without the disruption of replacing existing Àxtures and Àttings.

The range consists of: ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡

$UW /HDWKHUV 5HDO )DEULFV / 6HULHV PHWDOOLF SULQWV DQG WH[WXUHG Ànishes) ' 6HULHV ZRRGJUDLQV DQG VROLG Ànishes).

%HQLI FDQ EH DSSOLHG WR D UDQJH RI GLIIHUHQW VXEVWUDWHV including: :RRGV &RQFUHWH /DPLQDWHV 3ODVWLFV 9DULRXV PHWDOV *\SVXP ERDUGV

“Complete Room ModiĂ€cation without Disruptionâ€?

=HQROLWHΠ=HQROLWHΠLV WKH QHZ VXSHULRU KLJK JORVV PXOWL SXUSRVH product that gives a superior high gloss glass appearance without all the installation restrictions and cost of glass, or the design limitations of aluminium.

Providing a sleek and modern Ă€nish with a range of FRORXUV =HQROLWHÂŒ LV D VLPSOH HDV\ DQG FRVW HIIHFWLYH ZD\ to give your kitchen, bathroom, or bar and recreation areas a new designer look!

Whether you use it as a kitchen splashback, shower recess, a feature wall or facias for drawers and cupboards, =HQROLWHΠZLOO EULQJ WR OLIH DQG DGG D VSODVK RI FRORXU WR new and renovated rooms.

0DGH IURP XQLTXH SDWHQWHG SRO\PHUV =HQROLWHΠZLOO QRW crack, warp, shatter, stain or distort from normal household activities.

“A Splash of Living Colour�

Bellissimo Brings a Touch of “Glass” to Interiors Bellissimo Furniture has brought out the perfect material for today’s minimalist interiors, from kitchens and bathrooms to commercial premises, such as shops, bars and offices. Zenolite looks like glass and beads water in the same way where applicable, but has 25 times the impact resistance. Applications range from room dividers, doors, wall panels and furniture, to splashbacks in kitchens and bathrooms.

Zenolite is made from an optical polymer which offers a high-gloss finish in numerous colour options without the weight, installation and cost restrictions of glass.

Ideal for home or commercial applications, Zenolite represents a stunning new option for furniture and surfaces, which is perfect for contemporary interiors. It can replace tiles and many of the more traditional panelling materials.

Bellissimo managing director Warnock Watson said: “Glass has been used tentatively in some situations where a more robust material would allow a bolder design approach. Zenolite allows designers to achieve the glass look with none of the draw backs and restrictions. It has tremendous visual and practical appeal.”

Ideal for home or commercial applications, Zenolite represents a stunning new option for furniture and surfaces

For more information: Tel: 01772 696959 Email: warnock.ktw@btconnect.com

Add a Touch of Finesse The Finesse range of veneered MDF and particleboard is perfect for furniture, cabinet-work and shopfitting due to its high quality face veneers, core board, product consistency, and it provides real value for money. Finesse veneered panels are graded to meet the exacting demand of James Lathams’ customer base. It is available in a range of decors, including traditional species such as Oak, Ash and Maple, plus Black Walnut, Zebrano, Cedar of Lebanon and many others. Finesse is available in thicknesses from 6mm to 31mm ex stock, with alternative thicknesses also available to order. Standard board size is 2440mm and 3050mm x 1220mm, but sizes up to 3050mm x 2070mm can be supplied to order.

The Finesse range of veneered MDF and particleboard is available from James Latham in a large range of decors

6 Decorative & Solid Surfacing | January 2009

For more information: Tel: 0116 257 3415 www.lathamtimber.co.uk

Solid Hardwood Worktops from John Boddy Timber To complement their wide range of kitchen mouldings, John Boddy Timber have introduced a special range of quality solid hardwood worktops.

The unfinished laminated block style worktops offer superb choice and variety to enhance many different kitchen designs. The species available are: Ebiara, Ash, Beech, Beech Red Heart, European Cherry, Iroko, Maple, West African Mahogany, European Oak, European Walnut, Wenge and Zebrano.

The worktops are all 40mm thick available in dimensions of 3000mm x 650mm, 4200mm x 650mm and 3450mm x 900mm.

This is yet another extra service from John Boddy Timber following their substantial ongoing investment in top of the range production equipment for value-added timber products.

Samples of JBT Solid Hardwood Worktops

Tel: 01423 320204/214 Fax: 01423 324334 Email: sales@john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk www.john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk

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January 2009 | Decorative & Solid Surfacing 7

High Gloss Laminate Used for New Glasgow Casino The new Alea Glasgow Casino features Abet’s new high gloss HR LAQ high pressure laminate in all its washrooms.

Decra Plastics worked with casino architects Real Studios Limited to design the washrooms and specified Abet’s HR LAQ as it not only provided a collection of bold and bright colours but also provided very high resistance to scratching, wear and abrasion making it perfect for this kind of application where the combination of high performance and visual appeal are paramount.

HR LAQ is a Collection of Horizontal Grade Standard (HGS) laminate which provides architects and designers with a choice of 24 bold and bright colours. Having only recently been launched, it has already proved very popular with architects, designers and shopfitters worldwide. In response to this, Abet will be extending the range of finishes and colours for HR LAQ and in addition, the company will add certain decorative designs and finishes from other Collections to the range, including the popular Legni woodgrain and I Finti ranges.

Abet’s HR LAQ is a collection of Horizontal Grade Standard laminate with a choice of 24 bold and bright colours providing a choice to architects and designers ▼

8 Decorative & Solid Surfacing | January 2009

Samples and technical literature are available from Abet's sample line: Tel: 020 7473 6915 www.abetuk.com

Alchemy and nature inspire 3form's stunning material platforms

Top: Varia Alchemy Collection – Wave Gold Bottom: Varia Nest Collection – Thicket Raven

Founded in 1991 in America, 3form created a vision to develop design-driven materials with an unyielding commitment to environmental responsibility. In autumn 2008, marking significant success and expansion in Europe, 3Form opened its new Dutch based operation in Rotterdam, with a dedicated production facility that serves the European Design and Architecture community.

3form designs and produces highly decorative and functional panels in three material platforms - 'Varia', 'Chroma' and 'Glass' that can be used as separation walls, ceilings, sliding doors, table tops and bar counters or as a design statement on walls and railings. All materials are characterised by their beautiful decorative translucency, design aesthetic, fabrication flexibility, and the strong environmental and social commitment of the 3form organisation in the design and manufacturing of its solutions.

The translucent materials can be applied to any design project from hospitality, corporate, leisure and high-end retail spaces. Panels can be fabricated in an unlimited number of shapes and the 3form multidisciplinary architectural team provides expertise and support throughout the design, specification and installation process.

Stronger and lighter than glass and the most flexible of the 3form platforms, 'Varia' panels provide the utmost in translucent, aesthetic control, creating and fabricating designs as diverse as the imagination. Made from Ecoresin, created from PETG with 40% recycled material, Varia is the

ultimate custom material that beautifully blends high design with low impact. The Autumn collections, entitled Nest and Alchemy reflect the parallel design trends for natural and metallic materials.

Available in a special palette of inspiring colours and made from 100% cast acrylic, Chroma infuses a layer of colour into the panel. Naturally or artificially illuminated, Chroma has a radiant jewel-like colour and a remarkable luminosity.

3form Glass is a premium product with clear opacity and outstanding depth. Interlayers of materials like sequins, natural bubbles, willow, and flora and fauna can be delicately suspended in the glass.

"High design, Low impact" describes 3form's corporate commitment to environmental stewardship. 3form designs products that are aesthetically refined, good for people and kind to the environment and the company is committed to increase the overall percentage of recycled content in its materials. Sustainability is the core of the company's corporate culture and is apparent in its products, processes and business practices. 3Form was recently included on the American Institute of Architects top 10 green building products.

For more information: Tel: 020 7734 8103 Email: david@3form.eu www.3form.eu

Kronospan Unveils Fresh New Collection for 2009

Sambesi Zebrano is Kronospan’s first tropical based decor

Kronospan has launched a fresh new set of melamine decors for 2009. The collection has been created following extensive research into the market and designed to complement forthcoming interior trends influencing both the private and commercial sectors.

These are the first decors to be announced, with more to be unveiled later in 2009. The initial four

are designed to suit a range of environments and include a mix of bold new tropical decors alongside some that offer a new slant on traditional favourites.

Samira Maple is a refreshed version of a favourite decor, completing the Maple portfolio. Ideal for bedroom, kitchen and office furniture, this new option is designed to appeal to a wide market within the commercial sector. The Samira Maple very closely replicates the look of real timber, incorporating accurate plank width and the full knots which give a highly realistic finish. The decor is a match to Cova Products’ Samira PA. Miracosa Pear spans both the both domestic and commercial sectors, breathing new life into a familiar style. The Miracosa Pear’s subtle, warm tones work well in kitchen, bedroom and bathroom areas. Again, this decor is a very accurate reproduction of the original timber and offers a very elegant finish. Miracosa Pear matches LG Nutrex’s u9701-RIB. Walnut Lyon is a lighter alternative to the existing Walnut Tiepolo and a match for Hornschuch’s Light

Dijon Walnut 4120006. Completing the Walnut palette, the new decor is boldly linear, creating a contemporary finish ideal for bedrooms and kitchens. This new decor is flexible in use and can either be used to produce a very subtle effect, or alternatively can be specified to create a bigger impact by running it horizontally with bold, slab doors.

Sambesi Zebrano is Kronospan’s first tropical based decor, designed predominantly for use in the commercial sector, ideal for door fronts in hotels, bars and restaurants. A true reproduction of Zebrano veneer, the Sambesi Zebrano is an inviting, powerful decor designed to complement strong, contemporary colours such as matt grey work surfaces or splashes of vivid lime green or Ferrari red. Sambesi Zebrano matches with Cova Products’ Sambesi PA.

For more information: Tel: 01691 773361 www.kronospan.co.uk

January 2009 | Decorative & Solid Surfacing 9

EDP – Delivering Even More

Five new Thermopal gloss edging decors have been introduced by EDF

One of Britain’s foremost suppliers of modern surfacing and edging materials, EDP, have made major strides forwards by enhancing their service to customers.

Doubling both warehouse and transport capacity coincides with new key staff appointments.

EDP’s Terry Willet says: “Working with our principal partners in edging and surface foils we are introducing exciting new colour ways and designs by consulting closely with our customers and the major board producers. Pro-activity is what’s required at this stage, and EDP will move forward in the promotion of new product lines” Five new (0.8 x 22mm) gloss edging decors have been introduced to match Thermopal board decors: Light Olive Gloss (F21/005); Black Gloss (U007); White Gloss; Cream Gloss (U240); Latte/Oyster (u130/U197). Swatches of all the new

edging are available now from EDP. EDP’s edgebanding supplier Probos also continues to update, expand and innovate their range of Proadec edging products and include them in their extremely popular Express Line range and service.

Similarly major advances are being made with the Pentadecor ranges of foils for membrane pressing. Exciting new decors being introduced by EDP for Kronospan board décor matches include Sambesi Zebrano (D8784); Samira Maple (D8783); Miracosa Pear (D8898); Walnut Lyon (D9614).

Super matt and glossline decors are being developed to match the latest vogue palette from Egger. These are four new intriguing uni-colour foils: Mussel (U100ST9); Olive (U631ST9); Lava (U741ST9); Dakar (U717ST9).

EDP say that all the stock range gloss and basicline foils in both uni-colours and decors that they have introduced over recent months continue to show strong popularity. In particular the Woodline Mocha (matched to Egger H1428) and the Red Brown Highland Oak (matched to Egger H3362) continue to enjoy high use in current designs.

Terry Willett says that EDP plan to continue to develop their supply infrastructure and work with their principal manufacturing partners so that their customers receive a superior service both in terms of supply and cutting edge product development.

For more information: Tel: 01702 618877 Fax: 01702 618811 Email: Edpgroup@btconnect.com www.edpgroup.co.uk

Great impressions in Duropal’s latest worktops

Duropal’s plum butcher block effect

Duropal’s new UK worktop collection from Pfleiderer Industrie demonstrates superior reproduction techniques.

This gives convincing granite, wood and solid surface effects in genuine high pressure laminate. The most dramatic is Astral Quartz with an enhanced high gloss surface for improved abrasion resistance. The multi shade grey/silver chips against a pitch black background will work well with many kitchens, a cost effective yet practical choice for those who love the granite look. This décor is also available in the ever popular TC

10 Decorative & Solid Surfacing | January 2009

non gloss surface finish.

Sienna and Verona are two brown enhanced high gloss granites with dramatic appeal. Again, Sienna is also offered in the TC non gloss surface finish. Crystal stone in Quartz and Castello Granite has a three dimensional appearance thanks to the surface impression and finishing. Travertine and Brown Sahara complete the new stone inspired additions.

Duropal’s single solid surface reproduction introduced in 2005 continues to be very popular so there are now three new effects including white. Woods benefit from a dramatic Japanese inspired ‘Ikebana’ and Light Tuscan Olive. For those who require a more muted look, Natural Oak, Harvard Oak, and Plum in block effects will fit the bill.

All new worktops are in the popular tight radius ‘Quadra’ edge profile including the 3 new gloss decors. Pfleiderer Industrie is also now offering matching upstands in 4100mm length for 42 decors from the worktop range, along with 19 decors in compact grade HPL back panels.

For more information: Tel: 01625 66410 Email: info@pfleiderer.co.uk www.duropal.co.uk

A Class Act on the Worktop Scene IDS’s new Tuscan Quartzstone worksurface range captures all the beauty of natural stone yet offers the unique benefits of being available off the shelf, lightweight and easy to install. As a pre-fabricated blank, arguably the biggest benefit is its excellent price advantage due to reduced installation costs.

Tuscan Quartzstone worksurfaces are surfaced in a 5mm engineered stone panel that is 90% stone. It’s made from granites and quartz and fused together to offer a truly versatile sheet material. IDS has taken advantage of this unique thin stone technology to bring together a range of beautiful unique stone worksurfaces that satisfy the trend for natural materials. Signifying its premium specification, the range is backed by a 10 year limited warranty.

The range offers four contemporary stone worksurfaces centred around a popular beige, grey and black palette. Worktops are available

in 2900 x 620 x 38mm and breakfast bars 2100 x 900mm x 38mm. The product is also suitable for a range of sink options including flushmount and inset.

With Tuscan Quartzstone, the stone sheet material is bonded to a moisture resistant core and faced on the underside with a 0.7mm laminate giving a superior quality finish and specification. The great advantage of this is the weight compared to granite or stone. This makes for easier on-site handling and installation with usual manpower, as well as reducing the chance of breakage. Tuscan Quartzstone can also be installed using standard joinery tools with diamond-tipped cutters that are available as installation kits from IDS. Says Andy Sutton, IDS Business Development Director: “Tuscan Quartzstone opens up the design potential and availability of an aspirational product to a wider audience. As an off the shelf ready-made blank, much like a conventional laminate worktop, Tuscan Quartzstone rings in with a definite price advantage for the consumer, as well as excellent margin opportunity for the retailer.”

Tuscan Quartzstone worktops have been designed so that any competent kitchen fitter, following the comprehensive installation instructions, will be able to install these worktops with a high standard of finish.

IDS has set up a Gold Standard Fabricator Network who will be fully trained in the product and method of fabrication. Promotional material includes a 12 page lifestyle brochure, display stand with sample blocks, a comprehensive Installation Kit and Care & Maintenance guidelines.

Tuscan Quartzstone worksurfaces are available on 48 hour delivery from all ten IDS branches.

For more information: Tel: 08457 298 298 Email: info@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk IDS’s Tuscan Quartzstone worksurface in matrix

January 2009 | Decorative & Solid Surfacing 11

Benefits of HI-MACS®

The stunning Volcanic range includes this Santa Ana texture

While HI-MACS® is generally defined within the descriptive boundaries of a “solid surface” material it is, in fact, a Natural Acrylic Stone as distinct from a Solid Surface. This is mainly because of the way it is composed and manufactured and offers designers, fabricators and users a number of important benefits which set it apart from, and in front of, general solid surface materials.

Primarily HI-MACS® is a thermal-cured surface as opposed to the more conventional chemically-cured solid surface. Thermal curing brings important benefits: • Thermal curing gives a slightly harder and more stable surface which, in turn offers better consistency • The LG manufacturing process achieves a greater translucent depth. This is because thermocuring allows particles to be more evenly distributed

throughout the material whereas chemically cured surfaces tend to only get particle distribution in the top third of the surface.

• The thermo-curing manufacturing process has allowed the introduction of the superb Volcanics collection which incorporates significantly larger particles with stunning depth translucency • Because thermal curing gives a harder surface it is more resistant to scratching and easier to work and fabricate • It is totally non-porous and light scratches can be removed with a light abrasive like a Scotchbrite pad. Deeper scratches can be removed by sanding. Should some marks persist they are easily removed with brandnamed products like Bar Keeper’s Friend™ HI-MACS® is the leading material with which to work and design. It is supplied with a protective coating that need only be removed after the sheet has been worked on CNC machines.

The material is also supplied in 6mm and 9mm sheets as standard. These sheets are for use in any situation where the application does not involve heat – so vertical surfaces, wet surfaces in showers etc.

HI-MACS is suitable for high traffic environments such as airport terminals, hotels, shops, bars and restaurants, as well as specialized healthcare, laboratory and industrial installations. It is also a natural choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

The formable properties of HI-MACS® for creating complex 3D elements are exceptional.

This includes being able to create colourmatched sinks to worktops. The material allows joints with a full seamless effect to be made.

All of these properties make HI-MACS® today’s and tomorrow’s advanced, hi-tech surface for designing and hi performance use.

For more information Tel: 01732 424240 www.lghimacs.eu

A selection of HI-MACS® colours and effects from the HI-MACS® display ‘briefcase’ used by retailers