What is HI-MACS?
It is a solid surface material comprising of 75% natural mineral and pigments set in an acrylic matrix.
Who makes HI-MACS?
It is made by the LG Group, which was established in 1947, a major global company with operations in 132 countries.
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 commercial property. Please refer to the Applications section
How many colours are there?
There are currently 80 colours in the range (July 2007) and the range is continually being increased.
Does the colour fade over time?
HI-MACS is UV stable so the colour will not fade.
Can any colour be used for all applications?
Some 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 brochure or advice can be sought from our fabricators or branch offices.
What sizes are available?
Every HI-MACS installation is bespoke so there is virtually no limitation to length, width or depth.
What sink or bowl can be used?
There are currently 18 designs of sink available in up to 80 colours and 10 designs of bowl available in up to 69 colours made from HI-MACS. These can be seamlessly integrated into a worktop. Should you wish, sinks or bowls made from other materials can be used.
What finish is available?
HI-MACS can be sanded to give any finish ranging from matte to high gloss. However, to keep cleaning and maintenance to a minimum, a semi-gloss finish is recommended.
How is it cleaned?
Normal cleaning is just done using soapy water. If a mark remains on the surface, materials such as Cif or Flash can be used. Please refer to the Use & Care section.
Does it scratch?
HI-MACS is a high quality surface material and cutting of food should not be done directly on the surface. A chopping board should be used to maintain the high quality finish.
How does it react to heat?
In common with other high quality surfaces, pans or trays taken out of the oven or from the hob should be placed onto a trivet of some sort. Fabricators can carve grooves into which metal rods can be placed and pans or trays may be placed on these. The rods are removable for cleaning.
Why are joints 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?
Retailers, architects, designers and fabricators can have full sample cases. For clients wishing to choose between a number of colours, individual sample pieces are available. Please refer to the samples & literature section.
Are brochures available?
There are a number of brochures available from our branch offices, retailers and fabricators. Please refer to the samples and literature section.
Where can displays be seen?
Enquire to our branch offices and locations of displays can be provided.
Who can fabricate HI-MACS?
There is a nationwide network of companies who are specially trained to fabricate HI-MACS. Some specialise in commercial work and some specialise in retail kitchen and bathroom work. Please enquire to our branch offices to find the right fabricator for your project.
How does it compare to granite?
It 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. HI-MACS is translucent so lighting effects can be achieved dependant on the colour or thickness. When fabricated by a member of the HI-Macs Quality Club there is a 15 year limited installed warranty covering the material and fabrication. Unlike some companies, this warranty does not decrease in value over time.
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 depends on the size of the installation and complexity of design. Also, cost does vary depending on which colour is used. Fabricators can provide quotations. As it will last as long as required the life-cycle cost compares most favourably with other surface products.