Cutting:

• The boards can be cut to required sizes using hand/machine saws. In case of hand saw use only fine tooth saw and always keep it at a low angle for cutting to ensure clean sharp edges.
• In case of machine saw, carbide tipped saw is recommended. Poly-crystalline diamond tipped saw should be used for cutting large volumes

Machining and Carving:

• The main advantage of MDF is its excellent and easy surface routing and edge shaping capability. It results in clean, sharp reproduction of designs which are free from fuzz and fibre pull (Provided the tools are well maintained and used correctly.)
• MDF can also be worked with standard hand tools. It must be ensured that blades and cutters are sharp at all times

Fixing and Joining:

Fixing and joining techniques in MDF are similar to methods used in most other wood products. In MDF, for screwing, following methods should be adopted:

• Use only a fully threaded parallel shank
• Drill pilot holes before screwing to avoid splitting
• Do not over-tighten screws as further tightening will reduce the holding power
• Never hammer the screws
• Distance of screw from corner, on surface and edges should be minimum 25 mm and 75 mm respectively

Nailing:

• Nailing can be done for typical applications like upholstery, with nails no thicker than 17 gauge. In case of pneumatic guns for volume production, adjust air pressure to avoid excess penetration of the staple. To achieve best holding power, keep the staple just below the surface
• Distance of screw from corner, on surface and edges should be minimum 25 mm and 75 mm respectively, space of individual nails/staples should be minimum 150 mm c/c

Adhesives:

• It can be glued using most of the branded adhesives available in the market.

Hardware:

• Only fully threaded parallel shank steel screws of proper size should be used
• Dowels made of plastic, metal or bamboo can be used. Diameter of the hole should be slightly larger than the dowel to allow good adhesive coverage and to avoid splitting
• All types of hinges can be used
• Cam and dowel fittings are used for CKD units where right angle joints are required
• All types of locks can be used

Storage:

• Storage area must be dry and well ventilated
• MDF should always be stored in horizontal stacks on a flat surface
• Sheets should be lifted clear off the floor using dry bearers
• Minimum sheet bearers should be provided every 50 boards of same thickness
• Spacing between bearers not to exceed 800 mm c/c
• Bearers supporting successive layers should be in vertical alignment
• Use plastic sheets if extreme damp conditions are expected
• Protect corners and edges during loading/unloading
• Do not slide, drag or drop the boards
• Prior to use, it is recommended that conditioning of the site must be done for minimum of 48-72 hours

Maintenance:

• No edge of the Pre-lam MDF should be naked. Exposed parts should be covered with edge banding tape
• Water retention is not allowed
• Rest care as per General Purpose Laminates

Maintenance:

• Abrasives: Abrasive pads, scouring powders or cleansers may permanently damage the laminate surface making it susceptible to staining
• Harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals such as oven cleaner, toilet cleaner, or drain cleaner will etch and discolour the decorative surface. High Pressure Decorative Laminates are not designed to resist continual contact with these chemicals. If any of these products spill over the surface, remove immediately, rinse thoroughly, and wipe dry
• Hot objects: Even though HPL is high heat resistance, exposure to temperatures greater than 135°C (275°F) is not recommended. Hence, do not place hot frying pans or dishes directly from the oven or cook top on the laminate surface. As a precaution, protect the surface from heat generating appliances such as pressing irons, toasters, curling irons and electric cookers by using a trivet or insulated pad. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 65°C may result in separation of the laminate from the substrate
• Sharp objects: Never use knives or other sharp objects directly on the decorative surface. Use of chopping block or counter saver is recommended
• Impact: Even though High Pressure Decorative Laminates have excellent impact resistance, chipping or cracking may occur. Do not abuse the High Pressure Decorative Laminate by dropping heavy objects such as cans, dinnerware, or glasses or deliberately hammering directly on the surface

Cleaning:

• To clean the surface, use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soap or detergent
• Stains belonging to group 2 such as coffee or tea can be removed using a mild household cleaner/detergent and a soft bristle brush
• If a stain persists, apply a paste of baking soda and water with a soft bristled brush. Light scrubbing, 10 to 20 strokes should remove most stains. Although baking soda is a low abrasive, excessive scrubbing or exerting too much force may damage the decorative surface, especially if it has a gloss finish
• Stubborn stains belonging to Group 3 and 4, which resist any of the above cleaning methods, may require the use of undiluted household bleach or nail polish remover. Apply the bleach or nail polish remover to the stain and let it stand no longer than two minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry. This step may be repeated if the stain appears to be going away and the colour of the laminate has not been affected

Warning:

• Prolonged exposure of the laminate surface to bleach will cause discoloration. Acid based cleaners will permanently damage the laminates. Never allow these cleaners, or bottles, rags or other items contaminated with these cleaners, to come in contact with the laminates. Wipe such areas immediately and rinse thoroughly with water.

Decorative Trends, Inc. warrant that, under normal use & service, the material & workmanship of their products shall confirm to the standards set forth on the applicable technical data sheet for a period of twelve (12) months from the date of sale to the first consumer purchaser. Dealers & distributors are provided with the technical data sheets, which contain specific standards of performance of the product. In the event that a Merino Industries Limited or a Merino Panel Product Limited product does not perform as warranted, the first purchaser’s sole remedy shall be limited to repair or replacement of all or any part of the product, which is defective, at the manufacturer’s sole discretion. This warranty is not transferable, and expires upon resale or transfer by first purchaser. This warranty shall not apply to defects or damage arising from any of the following: Accidents, abuse or misuse, exposure to extreme temperature, improper fabrication or installation, improper maintenance. No other warranties, expressed or implied, are made. Under no circumstances shall the manufacturer be liable for any loss or damage arising from the purchase, use, or inability to use the product, or for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages. No fabricator, installer, dealer, agent or employee of Merino Industries Limited and Merino Panel Product Limited has the authority to modify the obligation or limitation of this warranty.