In the world of design, picking the right finish on a project is sometimes just as important as choosing the colour itself. In this month’s blog post, we will take a closer look at how to choose a gloss level that suits your project, the advantages and disadvantages of each finish, and the trends we are seeing in the laminate world.
Teknaform™ offers a variety of edgebanding gloss levels ranging from our Premium High Gloss (G) to our TekMatte Ultra finish (X-Z) and varying degrees of gloss in between. Gloss is measured using a 60° angle gloss meter and specs are kept to a tolerance of +/- 3. Below is a list of the Premium and Gloss Levels Teknaform™ offers.
But how do you choose the right gloss level for your next project? End use and aesthetics are key.
High gloss surfaces provide a more modern look, with reflective surfaces appearing more vibrant. Widely embraced in European design, the popularity of high gloss panels continues to rise. These surfaces are easier to clean as smudges wipe off easily and are more resistant to stains. Ideal for high-traffic areas, high gloss is often the preferred choice due to its almost effortless maintenance. However, with its higher light reflectivity, fingerprints, dust particles, and other imperfections are more visible on this surface, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain the desired appearance.
Matte surfaces on the other hand are a growing trend and show no sign of slowing down. With its low-light reflectivity, matte finishes aid in reducing glare which helps create a more understated look. In addition, this finish is excellent at hiding scratches, fingerprints, and other minor imperfections, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. While this type of surface requires less effort than high-gloss finishes, it is still recommended best for lower-traffic areas or where a more relaxed routine is the end use.
Looking for something in between? Teknaform™ offers a variety of additional options including our Classic finish (Gloss Level 14 +/-3), our Denim, Egg Shell finish (Gloss 18 +/- 3), and many more. These medium gloss finishes strike a balance between high gloss and matte, offering a moderate level of maintenance but are still more resistant to visible imperfections.
Looking for a specific finish? You can also customize the gloss level to your preference. Custom finishes require 3-4 weeks lead time to match. Consult with your sales representative about options for your next project today.