The lacquer is applied on a MDF panel (US EPA TSCA Title VI) and hardened under special lamps that emit high energy laser light for both the gloss and matt finishes. An ultraviolet excimer laser is used for the latter finish. This system allows a quick, effective hardening of the resins, producing a very hard, durable film that is soft to the touch, measuring 2 gloss units. With this particular planar painting process, the door is edged on four sides with a polypropylene strip, laser-glued and coated on the inside with matching melamine.

Where to find them

• Doors

Technical data

A door is called lacquered when it is coloured with various types of paints instead of being covered with a superficial layer of wood or laminate. In recent years lacquering has taken giant leaps, both in practicality and in resistance, not to mention in its attention to the environment. Curtain lacquering with UV technology is done on an acrylic base for a high level of surface and colour stability over time. In this case the products applied are hardened thanks to irradiation carried out by special lamps that emit high-energy ultraviolet light. These systems allow for a very quick and effective hardening of the resins, which normally produce very hard and resistant films (Franco Bulian, deputy director Catas - Ambiente Cucina). The surface's finish is therefore highly resistant to scratches and wear and is easily cleaned.

Maintenance

Lacquered doors require few yet fundamental rules of use and maintenance. Normal cleaning must be done with a soft, slightly dampened microfibre cloth. For stains, a mild liquid detergent can be added to the damp cloth, for example a glass cleaning product. To remove any traces of humidity and streaks, wipe the doors with a dry microfibre cloth. Do not use abrasive products (creams and powders) or those containing aggressive substances like alcohol, acetone, trichlorethylene, bleach, ammonia and their derivatives. Also avoid the use of rough cleaning materials, e.g. abrasive sponges or scouring pads, which would irreparably scratch the doors. The glossy and matt lacquered surfaces must not be excessively cleaned. In fact, excessive rubbing can compromise the uniformity of the coating (the matt finish can become polished, while the shiny surfaces may lose their flatness and take on the look of an orange peel). In any case, stains must be promptly removed and not allowed to dry, and the same goes for water and humidity. In this regard, maximum attention must be paid to staining substances like coffee, red wine, ink, etc. (in particular on light colours): "the natural or artificial dyes contained in these products can sometimes 'migrate' deeply into the lacquer, forming an indelible stain or streak" (Franco Bulian, deputy director Catas - Ambiente Cucina). Direct and prolonged exposure to sunlight should be avoided or reduced and managed (e.g. with the use of curtains). Attention also to collisions and contact with sharp and cutting objects: the paint film covering the lacquered panels could be damaged.
In use and maintenance of UV-lacquered doors, since the edges are present on four sides, we recommend paying particular attention to the edging of the panels. In fact, if they are neglected or subjected to excess heat, water and humidity, they can weaken and facilitate the occurrence of faults. For this reason, always dry damp vapours, condensation and water, avoid direct contact with heat sources and do not use cleaning devices that produce steam at high temperatures.