Low maintenance materials should be used to keep maintenance costs to a minimum and to maintain a good quality appearance for long periods of time. Therefore, building systems, materials, and finishes with minimum replacement costs are optimal. Maximising efficiency, increasing productivity and containing costs are key.
An example of an area where operational performance can be a costly to maintain if not considered when selecting materials is washrooms. How would you select the right system or components for toilet partitions? If it is a high traffic area, then it needs highly robust and impact resistant solution. Typically 3 material options are available in Australia. The first and most commonly used is compact laminate. 13mm Multipurpose Compact Laminate is the preferred material to be used in toilet & shower cubicles within educational buildings. This is due to its strength and durability. To ensure dimensional stability, a top rail is required which negates the flex in the product. Compact laminate can also be used for benchtops and wall lining. When selecting materials for wall linings in washrooms, 5mm compact laminate is a low budget but effective option for wet areas and high traffic areas. Unlike ceramic tiles, compact laminate is far less susceptible to cracks and damage.
