Arborite Counter Top Laminates
Arborite Counter Top Laminates bring hundreds of colours, patterns, and finishes to kitchen, bath, and laundry surfaces -- from solid colours and wood grains to stone and marble looks -- without the weight, cost, or air quality concerns of natural stone. All Arborite laminates are Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified, guaranteeing low-emission materials safe for residential interiors. High-pressure decorative laminate construction delivers a durable, low-maintenance surface that is easier and faster to install than stone. See the full collection at your local Windsor Plywood location or on the Arborite mobile app.
Features
- Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified -- guaranteed low-emissions, safe for kitchens and bathrooms
- High-pressure decorative laminate -- will not add harmful contaminants to indoor air, unlike some natural stones
- Hundreds of colours, patterns, and finishes -- wood grain, stone look, solid colour, and specialty textures
- Cost-effective alternative to stone -- significantly lighter and easier to transport and install
- Low maintenance surface -- resists staining, moisture, and everyday wear
- Suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and commercial countertop applications
Specifications
| Product Type | High-pressure decorative laminate (HPDL) |
|---|---|
| Brand | Arborite |
| Certification | Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified -- low-emissions |
| Colours and Patterns | Hundreds of options -- wood grain, stone look, solid colour, specialty finishes |
| Thickness | Confirm with your local Windsor Plywood location |
| Sheet Size | Confirm with your local Windsor Plywood location |
| Suitable Applications | Kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, laundry surfaces, commercial counters |
| Availability | In-store -- selection varies by location. Some colours may be special order. See full collection on the Arborite app. |
Common Uses
Arborite laminates are used for kitchen and bathroom countertops, laundry room surfaces, commercial reception desks, retail display counters, and office workstations. The wide range of finishes makes laminate the practical choice for renovation projects where stone is cost-prohibitive or structurally impractical, and for commercial applications where surface replacement on a regular cycle is expected.
Pairs Well With
For a natural wood countertop alternative, Acacia Wood Counter Tops and Unfinished Hevea Wood Countertop are available at Windsor Plywood. For cabinet and shelving surfaces that coordinate with laminate countertops, see Melamine sheet goods.
Pro Tips
- Apply laminate with contact cement to a substrate such as particleboard or MDF. Allow both surfaces to dry to the touch before joining -- contact cement bonds on contact, so alignment must be confirmed before pressing the surfaces together.
- Use a J-roller after pressing to ensure full adhesion across the entire surface, paying particular attention to edges and corners where delamination most commonly starts.
- For edge treatment, a matching laminate edge strip or a solid wood edge band produces the cleanest finish. File or router trim the edge flush after bonding -- do not use a belt sander on laminate edges as it will round the corner and expose the substrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Greenguard certification and why does it matter?
Greenguard certification means the product has been independently tested and verified to emit low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor air. This matters in kitchens and bathrooms where surfaces are in constant contact with food preparation, water, and steam. Some natural stone and certain adhesives used in stone installation can off-gas at levels that exceed indoor air quality standards -- Arborite's certification confirms it does not.
How does laminate compare to stone for a countertop?
Laminate is lighter, significantly less expensive, and faster to install than stone. It does not require sealing, does not chip or crack under normal use the same way stone does, and is available in far more colours and patterns. The trade-off is that laminate cannot be repaired if deeply scratched or burned, whereas some natural stone surfaces can be refinished. For most residential kitchens and bathrooms, laminate is a practical, durable, and cost-effective choice.
Can I install Arborite laminate myself?
Yes. Laminate countertop installation is a common DIY project. You will need contact cement, a substrate (typically particleboard or MDF), a J-roller, and a router or file for edge trimming. See your local Windsor Plywood location for the full range of adhesives and installation accessories.
How do I clean and maintain a laminate countertop?
Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool, and bleach-based products as these will dull the surface over time. Use a cutting board -- do not cut directly on the laminate surface. Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on laminate as sustained heat can cause bubbling or discolouration.
Where can I see the full Arborite colour range?
The full Arborite collection is available on the Arborite mobile app and at your local Windsor Plywood location. Colour and pattern availability varies by branch -- contact your local store to confirm what is in stock or available to order.