Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Cabinets
Don’t assume any cabinet will work. Cabinets must be lab-grade and designed to withstand harsh environments for years to come. What features should you insist on?
- PUR Adhesive. No other decision is more important to the life of plastic laminate lab casework than PUR. For more information, see our previous post on PUR.
- Laminate Edges. Door and drawer fronts need to be edged with 3mm PVC and adhered with PUR.
- Factory-Attached Plywood Bases. Avoid particleboard touching the floor. Particleboard is the ideal substrate for plastic laminate casework; however, it is essential to protect against moisture by using a PUR and plywood base.
Mistake #2: Choosing a Casework Color That Will Go Out of Style
Fads come and go even in the world of lab design. To avoid an outdated aesthetic, add color to the room by painting the walls.
Mistake #3: Choosing the Wrong Countertops
Like cabinets, countertops need to be lab-grade. A wide selection of materials is available, but not all are appropriate for certain conditions.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Safety Equipment
Fume hoods, safety showers, goggle cabinets, etc., are necessary and helpful components in many lab settings. In the planning stage, consideration must be given to HVAC requirements and airflow changes.
Bottom Line:
Varia can be a valuable asset to your design team, helping you choose a design layout and products that are durable, safe, and up-to-date.
