Google Search
Ads & Sponsors

LPL versus HPL

By Mister Slatwall

Many people do not understand the difference between low pressure laminate melamine (LPL) and high pressure laminate (HPL). First, let's define each one.

LPL is a piece of paper with a color printed on it and a modified acrylic overcoat which gives it some scratch resistancy. It is as thin as paper, with no backer.

HPL is a piece of paper with a color printed on it and a full acrylic overcoat which gives it a lot of scratch resistancy. It has a phenolic backer and this gives "thickness" to the laminate.

LPL is the least expensive way to color slatwall and still provide great value. LPL usually comes in white, black, almond, gray. It also comes in a variety of wood colors such as maple, birch and cherry. It also comes in a host of other specialty prints such brushed aluminum.

In my 35 years in the slatwall industry, many store planners have told me they expect fixtures and slatwall to last about 7 years. Of course, this assumes that the slatwall is not going to be abused or overloaded. LPL slatwall can also be cleaned using a damp cloth and a mild soap. LPL is as much as 60% cheaper than HPL slatwall. LPL slatwall usually ships within a week. HPL slatwall usually takes 2-3 weeks.

So, if LPL is so versatile, why even consider HPL?

HPL is generally used when you want a certain color and it is not available as an LPL. For example, if you want to have your slatwall or store fixtures red, it is unlikely that you will find that color in an LPL unless you are willing to commit to approximately 20000 lineal feet of custom LPL. HPL is used more as a design element. So, sometimes, the cost does not matter as much.

Most slatwall sold in the US is the LPL covered panels. So there you have it. You now know all about LPL and HPL.
I hope this makes it easier for you to buy slatwall .