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Frequently Asked Questions
What melamine products does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries melamine-faced particleboard and MDF panels in white, almond, and a range of wood-grain prints. Melamine panels are used for cabinet interiors, shelving, closet systems, and painted furniture components where a hard, cleanable surface is required without additional finishing.
What is melamine and how is it different from laminate?
Melamine is a thermally fused decorative surface where a melamine-impregnated paper is directly fused to a particleboard or MDF substrate under heat and pressure. High-pressure laminate (HPL) such as Arborite is manufactured separately and then bonded to a substrate with adhesive. Melamine has a thinner surface layer than HPL, making it more economical but less impact-resistant. Melamine is suitable for cabinet interiors; HPL is preferred for countertops and high-wear surfaces.
How do I cut melamine panels without chipping?
Use a fine-tooth saw blade specifically designed for melamine and plastic-coated panels — typically 60 to 80 teeth for a 10-inch blade. Scoring the cut line with a utility knife before sawing reduces chip-out. A zero-clearance throat plate on a table saw minimizes the gap around the blade that allows panel material to deflect during the cut. Cutting with the good face up on a table saw and face down on a circular saw optimizes the chip-free face.
Can melamine shelving support heavy loads?
Melamine-faced particleboard has adequate strength for shelving under normal loads but is susceptible to sag under sustained heavy loads on long unsupported spans. Keep shelf spans under 900mm (approximately 36 inches) for books and heavier items. For longer spans or heavy loads, use a thicker panel (19mm or 25mm) or add a solid wood edge that doubles as a stiffener along the front of the shelf.
Is melamine suitable for cabinet interiors in kitchens and bathrooms?
Yes. Melamine is the standard material for cabinet box interiors in kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. Its smooth, cleanable surface is practical for interior shelves, drawer bottoms, and cabinet sides. Standard melamine-faced particleboard is not appropriate for areas with direct moisture or standing water. For under-sink applications, moisture-resistant (MR) particleboard with melamine facing is the better choice.