Richlite
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Richlite is a high performance material appropriate for any residential or commercial surface application. In fact, it's been used for industrial purposes by the aerospace and marine industry for decades; as a sanitary food prep surface for commercial kitchens for 50 years and as a popular outdoor skate ramp surface for 12 years. The material is dense and durable with comparable features to solid surfaces and stone
Palette of Designs: Richlite's rich palette includes several color options:
Northwest Collection is available in FSC Certified and/or recycled colors with names that reflect natural and historic landmarks near Richlite's headquarters in Tacoma, Washington:
Sustainability: While Richlite aspires to make its mark in the architectural and design world through creative product offerings, our ultimate goal is to achieve success while leaving a smaller imprint on the environment. Richlite is committed to minimizing its impact on the globe by using only sustainably-derived resources, pursuing environmentally sound manufacturing and business practices, and working with partners who share in their initiatives to maintain a healthy planet.
All Richlite materials are made using Richlite's innovative WE Technology utilizing either FSC Certified or post-consumer recycled paper. In addition, Richlite products are GREENGUARD Certified for indoor use in residential, school and institutional environments and can contribute to LEED points.
Palette of Designs: Richlite's rich palette includes several color options:
Northwest Collection is available in FSC Certified and/or recycled colors with names that reflect natural and historic landmarks near Richlite's headquarters in Tacoma, Washington:
- Grays Harbor (100% recycled),
- Chocolate Glacier (100% recycled),
- Yellow Island,
- Blue Canyon,
- Redstone,
- Black Diamond,
- Browns Point, and
- Green Mountain.
- Other recycled products include r50 and r100, names which reflect their percentage of recycled content.
- Rainier
- Shasta
- Adams
- Hood
- Little Tahoma
- Baker
Sustainability: While Richlite aspires to make its mark in the architectural and design world through creative product offerings, our ultimate goal is to achieve success while leaving a smaller imprint on the environment. Richlite is committed to minimizing its impact on the globe by using only sustainably-derived resources, pursuing environmentally sound manufacturing and business practices, and working with partners who share in their initiatives to maintain a healthy planet.
All Richlite materials are made using Richlite's innovative WE Technology utilizing either FSC Certified or post-consumer recycled paper. In addition, Richlite products are GREENGUARD Certified for indoor use in residential, school and institutional environments and can contribute to LEED points.
Patina + Aging: Over time and with use, Richlite will develop a seasoned appearance that is characteristic of the material. There will be more luster or burnishing in areas of heavier use. Overall it will appear softer and deeper in color and pattern. Aging is a natural process that begins immediately and may take a number of years to complete. It is similar to the manner in which natural wood products oxidize and age over time. The speed of aging will be affected by the amount of natural light the product is exposed to. Typically the process is noticeable after one to three months. In general, color change is least noticeable in darker colors and more pronounced in lighter colors. The manufacturing process does not allow absolute control over the color of the final product. Slight variations between sheets may occur but will lessen as they age. The effect of aging in Richlite is primarily a result of the resin component, which begins as pale amber and deepens to a rich shade of sienna.
Stain Resistant: Generally speaking, Richlite resists stains quite well. As with most material, there is potential for some staining. Richlite stands up well to anything acidic, but high-alkaline products may pull or alter color after prolonged exposure. Stains may be cleaned with soap and warm water and scrubbed with a soft bristle brush. More stubborn stains may be repaired by a light refinishing of the material. Refer to the Care and Maintenance for further information.
Scratch Resistant: It's significantly harder than wood but, like most countertop materials, can, under force, be scratched or gouged. Richlite countertops should not be used as a cutting surface. Because Richlite is a solid color throughout, when scratches do occur, they can easily be buffed or sanded out. Use of a separate cutting board is recommended. Most cuts, scratches and nicks can be repaired with a light refinishing.
Heat Resistant: Richlite is heat resistant up to 350°F. Due to its high heat resistance, the material does not need additional protection near stove areas though a trivet or hot pad is recommended to ensure no damage will be caused by exceedingly hot pots and pans pulled directly out of the oven.
Sanitary: The surface is impervious and does not support the colonization of bacteria.
Finish: Richlite looks natural, is non-porous and has a matte finish. The surface of the manufacturer provided samples has been sanded, buffed and sealed with two coats of finish. Richlite does not maintain a polished or glossy surface. A finish is recommended by the manufacturer as the best balance for initial look and feel and eventual wear and patina. Two good options are:
- Bioshield Wood Counter Finish is a great eco-friendly choice. The finish is oil-based with a hardener mixed in so it stays on the surface much longer and will not be removed with soap and water. It also acts as a better repellent to water marks, stains, etc. This is the preferred finish for residential use as it has low VOCs.
- Richlite Color Enhancer is the most maintenance free finish, but it will require some maintenance. It is recommended for larger commercial projects and can be applied easily in the field.