What is a Molded Melamine Table Top?
A molded melamine table top is a molded product, not a high pressure laminate. This patented process combines wood, resins and melamine to produce a unique high tech composite. These table tops withstand the extremes of moisture, weather and surface abrasion.
What is the surface made of?
The table top surfaces are Melamine, one of the world’s toughest plastics. Melamine is so scratch and stain resistant that it is used in dinnerware, ashtrays and other products that must stand up to hard use and repeated scrubbing. Melamine is so hard and non porous that even dried paint can be removed easily. It is resistant to graffiti, cigarette burns, bird droppings and all types of food stains. The surface will not harbor bacteria or mildew. Stubborn stains can be removed with household cleaners and light rubbing with 0000 steel wool.
Isn’t a Molded Melamine Table Top just particle board?
Definitely not! The core material is designed to resistimmersion in water, even boiling water, wet conditions that would cause ordinary particle board to quickly disintegrate. Also, it is molded with a fused thermoset surface that resists stains, scratches and harsh use.
Is this a laminated product?
No, the melamine on the table top surface is chemically bonded, not glued on as with ordinary indoor laminates. Glued laminates are only as strong as the adhesive, and often can be peeled apart. This process uses intense heat and pressure to chemically unite the core with the melamine surface. Since our core also contains melamine, the two components are permanently fused into a single composite
structure.
Why do new molded melamine table top come with a “crown” from production?
Molded melamine table tops are purposely made with a natural “crown“ or a convex surface i.e., the center of the table top is slightly higher than the edges . This feature facilitates the drainage of rain water when the table top is exposed to the outdoor elements. A new table top “crown” should not exceed ¼” per 1 ½ FT of length to the edge of the table top.
Will my molded melamine table top “warp” when exposed to the sunlight?
Any molded melamine table top will first lose its “crown” and it may warp slightly in the concave direction. A deflection of as much as ¼” per 1 ½ FT of length from the center of the table top should be expected. This will not affect the functionality of the table. GROSFILLEX RECOMMENDS USING LIGHT COLOR TABLE TOP DECORS IN AREAS DIRECTLY EXPOSED TO STRONG SUNLIGHT. This will minimize the physical changes which may occur as
described above.
Can I leave my Table Top out all year?
These table tops are not damaged by ice, snow or sunlight and can remain outdoors all year. Of course, protected storage in the off season will keep your furniture looking new that much longer. Unlike lacquered resin table tops, they will not discolor if stored under plastic covers or tarpaulins.
What about safety?
It will not splinter or shatter like glass. Its hefty weight stabilizes the table. It isn’t likely to tip over or blow away in a breeze like lightweight resin tops. There is no metal rim to trap bacteria and no sharp edges or protrusions that could inflict injury.
What colors or patterns are available?
Grosfillex offers popular color and decor options to pair with a variety of Grosfillex outdoor seating. Stock colors may change somewhat from season to season based on styling trends in the industry.
Can I paint my Molded Melamine Table Top?
Conventional paints do not adhere well to the melamine surface. There are some special two component
paints that may be used, but they are costly and usually require professional application.
How long will a Molded Melamine Table Top last?
This depends on the type of treatment it gets. With a little care, these table tops have lasted for many years in demanding climates. Grosfillex has a two year limited warranty on these table tops. We stand behind each top we sell.
