Frequently Asked Questions
When you have questions about our products and processes, here's a great place to start. We've listed some of the most common questions we receive below. For additional questions, click here to submit your inquiry.
FAQs
What are phenolic panels - how are they made?
Phenolic panels, also known as high-pressure laminate (HPL) panels are made with layers of kraft paper that are impregnated with phenolic resin and a decorative layer is added before the materials are pressed into a highly durable non-porous panel used for a variety of interior and exterior applications including wall cladding, furniture, partitions, and laboratory work surfaces. For more information, click here.
Where can I find a project using Fundermax panels locally?
We have many projects across North America that have utilized our products. For additional help, click here to locate our nearest representative partner and identify a project near you.
How do you fasten phenolic panels to the wall?
Fundermax panels can be attached to the wall in multiple ways. For more information on how to attach panels to the wall, click here.
How do I find installers in my area?
Fundermax has a wide network of installers across North America and would love to help you find a contractor suited to the needs of your project. Click here to locate our nearest representative to match you with the right contractor in your area.
How durable are phenolic panels in a lab environment?
In a word - very. Chemical, stain, anti-bacterial, and moisture resistant, Fundermax Max Resistance2 material is a clear leader. These laboratory work surfaces can withstand heat up to 360 °F / 182 °C, without blistering, scorching, or impairing the surface. And due to the patented surface technology, Max Resistance2 offers high impact and scratch resistance. For more information, click here.
Can phenolic work surfaces resist bacteria?
Yes! With superior bacterial and fungal resistance, Max Resistance2 is the perfect choice for laboratories and clean rooms. The non-porous surface, which is also free of macro and micropores, ensures that Max Resistance2 can withstand frequent cleaning from harsh disinfecting chemicals, providing the optimum choice for cleaning, anti-bacterial, and disinfection. For more information, click here.
How easy is Max Resistance2 to fabricate and install?
Weighing in 6.9 pounds per square foot for standard 1" thickness, Max Resistance2 is easy to handle and install. With two sizes available, the panels enable fabricators to gain an excellent yield, plus installers can modify the panels with ease on-site. Furthermore, with its deep color core, additional edge treatments are not required. Fundermax also provides superior technical support to ensure efficient fabrication and installation. For more information, click here.
Is Max Resistance2 environmentally friendly?
Fundermax is EPD certified, plus FSC and PEFC certified raw materials are used. Credit contributions for LEED can be identified with MRc4; MRc7; IEQc4.1 and IEQc4.2 In addition, the durability of the work surface reduces the potential for early replacement and reduces waste, making it a highly sustainable choice. For more information on our sustainability, click here.
How durable are phenolic panels to scratches, impact, and weather?
Fundermax panels are highly durable for both interior and exterior applications. In terms of lightfastness, Fundermax achieves a 4-5 rating on the Gray Scale, where the industry standard is 3. For more information, click here.
Do Fundermax panels comply with the IBC code?
Yes, Max Exterior 8 and 10mm panels meet the requirements of IBC Chapter 14. NFPA285 Compliant assemblies using Exposed Fastener 8 and 10mm, Modulo 8mm, and Concealed Fastener 10mm are available. Fundermax panels may also be used as a Class A interior finish. Fundermax's NCore panels have proved compliance with 703.1 and 703.2 of the 2015 IBC Code for materials considered "non-combustible" based on code requirements and passing the ASTM E136 test protocol. For more information, click here.
What class does your material fall into in the ASTM E84 test?
Max Exterior is Class A-rated, Max Compact Interior F-Quality and Max RE are also Class A-rated. For more information, click here.
What tools do I need to cut/drill your material?
Panels should primarily be cut and drilled on a CNC router or panel saw. Field cuts can be done with common hand tools (circular saw, compound miter saws, etc..) For more information on cutting exterior panels, click here. For interior panels, click here.