3.Machining and processing HPL
Holes in the HPL cover layer have to be pre-drilled at least 1 mm larger than the screw diameter. This is necessary to avoid possible tensions in the material. Before installing the screws, the inside of the drilled hole has to be protected against water by inserting sealing compound.
Sinks, hobs
All work areas in a modern kitchen which are set into the worktop, such as sinks or hobs, can easily be installed on site. This excludes flush-mounted sinks, which can usually only be purchased ready-mounted or have to be specially manufactured. Generally, the installation instructions from the manufacturers of sinks, hobs and installed appliances must be observed.
Top-mounted sinks
Top-mounted sinks are usually supplied with dry seals and have to be installed carefully according to the installation instructions.
Only the sealing systems defined by the manufacturer are permitted for the installation of plastic sinks. All edges of cutouts must be sealed before installation. If drilled holes are required (e.g. water pipes) in connection with sink installation, the instructions on holes and cutouts must be observed.
Flush-mounted sinks
a) Installation from above
It always has to be ensured that the sink that has to be installed is suitable for flush mounting in the sense of the method described here. A sufficiently large expansion joint has to be provided and the minimum radii for cutouts have to be observed.
The process is characterised by a groove made in the worktop from above. The sink is placed into this groove. The height of the groove has to be adapted so that the sink sits flush in the worktop. Special attention has to be paid to sealing the system and the prior sealing of the cut edges.
b) Installation from below
Flush-mounting from below the worktop is more complicated and requires substantial technical skills and equipment.
Hobs
Even before the installation of a hob, the cut edge of the worktop has to be carefully protected against moisture. The supplied installation templates have to be used to provide centred positioning, so that an even and sufficient safety distance of the hob to the cut edge is ensured. Covering the edge with aluminium foil and thermal tape has proven to serve as reliable additional protection against the heat radiation. Before installation, the required opening has to be cut with great care so that the HPL remains free from splinters and grooves at the edges. Only the sealing systems defined by the manufacturer are permitted for installation.
Ovens and dishwashers
Steam from ovens and dishwashers can have a negative impact on the adhesive joint at the underside of the worktop. Therefore, worktops have to be protected with a paint coat, silicone or a self-adhesive aluminium tape in this area. The adhesive tape has to be sufficiently temperature-resistant. If the appliance manufacturer has supplied barrier profiles, they must be installed to deflect any steam and to dissipate the thermal radiation.
