Laminated Benchtop Product
& Install Guide
In this section…
Important Notice for Installers and Customers of Laminated Timber Products
Laminated products are intended solely for non-structural internal use unless explicitly specified otherwise.
Prioritize reading this section:
- Immediately seal the end grain.
- Avoid exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, heat, or wind (including from windows).
- Store wrapped in plastic, standing up with room for ventilation, and elevated off the floor in a sheltered area.
- Benchtops should be stored on edge.
- Promptly seal all faces and edges.
If there are any uncertainties or concerns regarding the product’s grade, moisture content, quality, or the installation environment, refrain from installation. Instead, seek advice by reaching out for guidance. Your careful attention to these guidelines ensures the optimal performance and longevity of laminated timber products.
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
Proper installation of the benchtop is crucial, and we strongly advise reading this guide thoroughly before commencing the installation of any benchtop or wide laminated product.
The moisture content of timber fluctuates due to varying levels of moisture absorption and release. Natural humidity, air conditioning, and appliances that generate heat or moisture (e.g., dishwashers, cooking appliances) impact timber moisture content. As air moisture increases, timber expands, and it contracts as air moisture decreases.
Laminated timber products, being natural, will naturally expand and contract across the grain with humidity changes. This movement is normal and should be considered during installation (refer to Figure 3).
The extent of movement across the grain depends on the timber species, with a general rule of allowing 1mm per 100mm.
SEALING
Effective sealing is crucial to prevent sudden and excessive moisture changes within the timber. Envelope sealing is required for all laminated timber products—covering top, bottom, edges, and ends. Pay close attention to cutout areas and exposed end grain.
If on-site cutting is necessary after coating, reseal the cut area with a minimum of four coats of a suitable sealer.
FIXING POSITIONS
Minimal fixing is necessary, as the piece is primarily secured by its own weight and plumbing. Ideally, fix into the underside of the benchtop, along the same laminate length.
Refer to the provided diagrams for examples of correct and incorrect fixing positions.
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SCREW HOLES
Fixing through framework into the underside of bench should be via a 12mm clearance hole and an 8 gauge screw with washer, allowing movement between fixing points. Holes should be predrilled.
Benchtop Should Never Be Glued Down!
Effects of services on timber benchtops.
Dishwashers, Floor Mounted Vents, Hot Water Systems & Cooktops
Where appliances have heat acting on the bench top, polystyrene or similar insulation should be installed to cut down the heat transference. Provide adequate ventilation.
Electric Kettles / Small Appliances
Use a heat pas with an air gap underneath. Quick heating kettle, often 2400 watts, will cause timber to heat up too quickly and split.
Sinks, Cooktops, Cutouts For Posts / Other
The fitting of sinks, basins, cooktops etc. must not restrict the bench top from expanding and contracting. Ensure that there is at least 5mm clearance all around the appliance. Insulation should be installed around cooktops. Rubberised joint sealant should be used for sink and basin applications.
Vegetable Storage
Where vegetables or other material that are likely to give off moisture are stored under the bench top, insulation should be installed and adequate ventilation provided.
Ventilation
Particle board or MDF tops fixed to cabinets should be removed or have large holes cut into them to assist with even and adequate ventilation.
Overhangs
If overhangs exceed 200mm, then some form of under bench bracketing should be used for support.
Wide tops & Stair Landings
With wide tops and stair landings, expansion and contraction is directly proportional to the width: therefore sealing, fixing to allow movement, allowances for moisture and heat are even more important.
Effects of Windows
Just how a timber floor is effected near a window or door, so is a bench top. The constant intensified heat generated through a window will cause those areas to shrink and fade differently to the areas away from the window. Up keep of coatings in these areas is even more critical.
In this section…
For Optimal Performance, Safeguard this Laminated Product with Appropriate Seal Coatings
To ensure peak performance, it is essential to shield this laminated product from environmental factors through the application of seal coatings. Sunlight has a degrading effect on most clear coatings, exposing the timber and allowing the impact of moisture, humidity, and heat.
When utilized in external settings, maintaining the seal coats becomes even more crucial. Immediate recoating is recommended if the surface appears worn or bare.
Several common types of seal coatings include:
- Exterior Paint: Highly recommended for its slow breakdown, providing robust protection.
- Clear Polyurethane: While coatings with UV inhibitors deteriorate and flake, full sanding and recoating are necessary every 12-18 months.
- Exterior Oil Finish: Although it has a shorter lifespan, it avoids flaking and facilitates easy re-application. Recoating should be performed at least every 9-12 months.
Preserving the integrity of these seal coatings is paramount for the enduring quality of the laminated product, particularly in external applications.