What is HI-MACS®?
It is a solid surface material comprising of 75% natural mineral
and pigments set in an acrylic matrix.
What can it be used for?
HI-MACS® is so versatile that it can be used for a wide variety
of applications in the home or in commercial property. Please refer
to the Applications section.
How many colours are there?
There are currently 82 colours in the range (August 2016)
and the range is being constantly increase. Please refer to the
Products section.
What sizes are available?
Every HI-MACS® installation is bespoke so there is no limit to
length, width or depth.
What sinks or bowls can be used?
There are currently 20 sink designs and 12 vanity bowl
designs made from HI-MACS® available in over 60 colours. These can
be seamlessly integrated into a worktop. Should you wish, sinks or
bowls made from other materials such as stainless steel or ceramic
can be used.
What finish is available?
HI-MACS® can be sanded to give any finish from matte to a high
gloss. However, to keep cleaning and maintenance to a minimum a
semi-gloss / satin finish is recommended.
How is it cleaned?
Normal cleaning is just done using soapy water. If marks remain
on the surface, materials such as Cif or Flash can be used. Please
refer to the Use and Care Section.
Does the colour fade over time?
HI-MACS® is UV stable and does not fade.
Some applications are external, such as cladding or signage and
some colours are more suitable than others.
Can any colour be used for all applications?
Dark heavily pigmented colours will show ordinary wear and tear
more readily than lighter textured colours. Advice on which colour
to use for your project is contained within the Colours section and
brochure or advice can be sought from your fabricator.
Does it scratch?
HI-MACS® is a high quality surface material. A chopping board
should be used for food preparation and avoid moving rough based
objects across the surface.
How does it react to heat?
In common with other high quality surfaces, pans or trays taken
off the hob or out of the oven should be placed onto a trivet of
some sort. Fabricators can incorporate hob bars into an
installation.
Why joints are called inconspicuous?
In most cases the joint between one piece of HI-MACS® and
another will be virtually invisible. In some cases under close
inspection a joint may just be visible.
Are samples available?
50mm x 50mm colour samples are available on request. Please
refer to the Contact form.
Are brochures available?
A4 colour brochures are available. Please refer to the Contact
form.
Who fabricates HI-MACS?
There is a nationwide network of fabricators who are specially
trained to fabricate HI-MACS®.
Some specialise in residential work and some specialise in
commercial work.
How does it compare to granite?
HI-MACS® is non-porous and requires no special sealing. Joints
are inconspicuous and therefore more hygienic. There is a much
wider choice of colours and effects. In the unlikely event HI-MACS®
is damaged it can be repaired. Virtually any design can be achieved
so length, width or depth presents no obstacles. HI-MACS® can be
thermoformed (heated and shaped) so complex curves are
possible.
Some colours have translucent properties so lighting effects can
be achieved dependant on the colour or thickness.
When fabricated by a fabricator who is a member of the HI-MACS®
Quality Club there is 10 + 5 year limited installed warranty.
How long will a HI-MACS® installation last?
Quite simply it will last as long as you want it to.
How much does it cost?
Every installation is bespoke so cost is dependent on the size
and complexity of design of the installation. Also, cost does vary
depending on the colour chosen. Fabricators will provide
quotations.
As it will last as long as required the life cycle cost compares
most favourably with other surface products.