3 Things you Must Know When Choosing a Balancing Backer

When it comes to producing high-quality panels for work surfaces and furniture, the balancing backer you select can make a significant difference between a product that lasts and one that falls apart prematurely. Because of the role it plays in ensuring the structural stability of your panels, don’t make the mistake of making it an afterthought! Here are three key questions to ask before you select your model.

1.      How thick is the core material?

The thickness of your core is a major indicator of how much strength your balancing backer needs to bring to the application. A thicker core is naturally more rigid, meaning it can resist warping more easily. A thinner core, on the other hand, is more susceptible to movement when conditions like humidity change. If your backer is too strong or not strong enough for your core thickness, you risk warping. Matching the right backer to the core thickness ensures you maintain balance throughout the life of your product.

2.      How Much Support Does the Final Application Offer?

Think about where the panel will live and how it will be used. A countertop that’s fully supported by cabinetry needs less balancing force than a large conference table with open spans. The level of built-in support determines how much the balancing backer will have to do on its own. Underestimating the stress on an unsupported span can lead to warping or premature failure – all of which can be avoided with the right choice at the front end of your project.

3.      What is the Laminate Grade used on the Face?

The laminate grade affects the weight, stiffness, and tension on the panel. Postforming grades, for example are thinner and more flexible, while horizontal grades are thicker and more rigid. If your balancing backer doesn’t closely match the specs of the decorative face laminate, you introduce uneven tension into the panel. That imbalance can cause warping, and even delamination – especially in high-humidity environments.

There is no one size fits all when it comes to a balancing backer, which is why we have 10 models. Our team of balancing backer experts can help you narrow down exactly which PolyBak model will bring the perfect balance to your product. To contact our team call 616-243-2700 or email sales@richwoodind.com.