The Different Forms of Edge Banding Explained

In our Everything you Need to Know about Edge Banding guide, we covered edge banding across a wide scope. In this next post, we are delving into the different forms of edge banding you can choose for your panels, from a bespoke edge panelling and banding service such as Alexander Cleghorn.

There are a number of different materials to choose from when it comes to edge banding. Popular materials in the market available include ABS, veneered wood and PVC. Not only is there an extensive range of materials available, but there are also various colours, textures and finishes that offer the flexibility and range you are looking for to meet your exact interior needs and requirements.

Our range of melamine, laminate and MDF panels at Alexander Cleghorn means that our variety of edge banding is just as broad. Read on to discover more about our top four forms of edge banding materials to discover what will suit your exact needs and requirements.

What is PP?

PP is produced from Polypropylene, which is a common thermoplastic polymer. This type of edging material is tough yet flexible which allows good processing and application. It is also extremely useful for the application of items of smaller radius.

Polypropylene is a popular choice of banding material due to its resistance to chemical corrosion, as well as its resistance against forms of physical damage. For example, its resistance to forming fatigue cracks so that it does not break overtime.

An adequate advantage of PP is that this material can be easily disposed of. Moreover, there is no need for time-consuming tasks such as sorting and separating edge bands from boards. Due to its disposable and environmentally friendly advantages, as well as the ability to be joined to panels by using heat instead of glue, makes PP an extremely conventional material to choose.

What is PVC?

PVC is produced from Polyvinyl Chloride, which is a plastic material frequently used for edge banding. This particular material is both robust, durable and solid with high resistance against abrasion, chemical damage as well as UV light damage. PVC is also extremely suitable for long-lasting applications with easy machining processes.

PVC tapes are generally flame retardant, and most importantly 100% recyclable. Making it an efficient and environmentally friendly choice for your banding. 

PVC is one of the most commonly used plastics for edge banding, and is often the choice for high-volume users and applications. PVC tape is also suitable for straight panel edging as well as curved panel edging.

What is ABS?

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene or otherwise referred to as ABS, is a newer form of plastic material used for edge banding applications. ABS shares copious characteristics with PVC, however, ABS is not flame retardant but is free of Chlorine. 

ABS is also ecologically sound due to it being 100% recyclable and contains thermo-disposable characteristics.

What are Veneered Tapes?

If you are requiring a clean and solid-wood finish to your plywood or veneered panel, then veneered tape is the better solution and option to choose from.

Veneered tape banding is a real-wood veneer that comes in a variety of different thicknesses, widths and options. It can also be pre-sanded and can come in several sizes. 

Veneer edge banding can give your panel the overall authentic solid wood finish, to look professional on worktops, cabinets and shelving and is a favoured choice of banding material to cover the exposed edges of MDF boards.

Alexander Cleghorn

At Alexander Cleghorn, we have recently invested over £1M in state of the art machinery and equipment which allows our team of professionals to produce the highest quality panels including shaped edge banding services. At Alexander Cleghorn, we strive to provide our customers with high-quality and professionalism to ensure they receive the best bespoke panel production service with us.

To learn more, get in touch for more information about our products & services by calling us on 01621 815551 or sending an email to [email protected].