Formica
High Pressure Laminate vs. Solid Surface
Formica - 949-SP-White Sculpted Finish
C O N T E N T S
WhatisHighPressureLaminate?
HPL
High Pressure Laminate or often referred to as HPL, is a durable decorative surface material made by fusing multiple layers of Kraft paper and resin under high heat and pressure. Compared to melamine or thermofoil, HPL is typically a premium option, used when a balance between visual appeal, longevity and performance are desired.
Why it is used
Durability - Highly resistant to scratches, moisture, impact and heat - ideal for high-use areas like desktops.
Aesthetic Variety - Available in over 1,000 unique finishes, there is a texture and finish to suit many different styles and designs
Low Maintenance - Easy to clean and doesn’t require any sealing or refinishing
Bianco TFL with Formica - 8994-PX Paint Scrape Steel
WhatisSolidSurface?
Acrylic
Formica Solid Surface is a non-porous, homogeneous surfacing material made from acrylic resins and natural minerals. Compared to stone or quartz, solid surface offers a midrange solution that blends style, resilience and flexibility - ideal for areas that require a clean and integrated finish, that is a step up from HPL without stepping up to the price point of stone.
Why it is used:
Seamless appearance - Joints can be fused to create a clean and continuous look
Repairable and Renewable - Unlike stone or laminate, scratches and stains can be sanded out and refinished
Non-porous and hygienic - Resists moisture, bacteria and stains, making a smart, healthy choice.
Stylelite Champagne Acrylic Gloss, Formica DecoMetal M8547 Oxibronze
Key Differences
Feature
Material Composition
Layers of kraft paper + resin, pressed under heat & pressure
Surface Appearance
Durability
Moisture Resistance
Decorative top layer with printed pattern or texture
Highly scratch- and impact-resistant; not seamless
Moisture-resistant surface; vulnerable at seams
Heat Resistance
Moderate; can be damaged by hot items
Edge Options
Typically edged with PVC, ABS, or matching laminate
Acrylic resin + natural minerals, poured and cured into solid sheets
Homogeneous, consistent color and pattern throughout
Durable and repairable; minor scratches can be sanded out
Non-porous and seamless; fully resistant to moisture
Slightly better than HPL but not as heat-resistant as stone surfaces
Can be seamlessly integrated with molded edges
Seam Visibility
Visible seams at joints
Customization & Shaping Flat surfaces only; no thermoforming
Design Range
Repairability
Wide range of colors, woodgrains, patterns, and textures
Virtually seamless joints; smooth, continuous appearance
Can be thermoformed for curves and custom shapes
Good variety of colors and patterns; more uniform look
Not repairable if damaged
Cost More budget-friendly
Scratches, minor damage can be repaired or refinished
Mid-range; more expensive than HPL, less than quartz
Choose Your Color
Solid Surface
Béton
Gr s Gamma Blanc Bril ant
Quartz Cuivré
Showroom
Collection
Sable Perla
Luna Sand
Gris Galaxie
737 Gray Galaxy
Superficie Sólida Everform®
Choose Your Color
Showroom Signature
Collection
Choose Your Color
White Painted Wood 8902-NG
Layered Sand 9511-34
Neutral Twill 8826-58
Earthen Twill 8828-58
Weathered Ash 8842-WR
Natural Canvas Matte Finish 7022-58
Planked Deluxe Pear 6206-43
Pecan Woodline Matte Texture 5883-58
Black Riftwood Natural Grain 6414-NG
Ebony Oxide Matte Texture 299-58