Moisture resistant is not waterproof
StyleLite and TruNatur standard panels use moisture-resistant (MR) MDF. EGR presents them for kitchen and vanity doors, wardrobes, general cabinetry and laundries.
MR MDF resists moisture but is not a waterproof core. TruNatur's data sheets show 24-hour thickness swell of up to 5% on MR MDF, against up to 1% on the waterproof core.
StyleLite's warranty excludes water damage, including steam and excessive moisture.
EGR Waterproof panels
EGR Waterproof uses the same waterproof core and glue under different faces. The rule is Face + Glue + Board = Waterproof.
Faces are StyleLite TruMatte and TruNatur polymer veneer for indoors, and StyleLex laminate for covered outdoor areas. Face panels are 2400 × 1200mm.
Listed uses are flood-prone areas, wine rooms, bathrooms, vanities, kickboards, mudrooms, laundries, fitness spaces, and aged care and medical. EGR says the panels can be hosed out and dried with no damage.
| Panel | Face | Use | Full submersion, no change (EGR method) |
|---|---|---|---|
| StyleLite Waterproof, 18mm | TruMatte acrylic | Indoor | Up to 30 days |
| TruNatur Waterproof, 18mm | Polymer veneer | Indoor | Up to 7 days |
| StyleLex face panel, 18mm | UV-stable HPL | Interior wet areas and covered outdoor | Up to 7 days |
| StyleLex ABS carcass, 18mm | Textured ABS/acrylic | Carcasses, kickboards | 30 days |
| StyleLex laminate carcass, 16mm | White textured HPL | Indoor and covered outdoor | 7 days |
| StyleLex WPC carcass, 16mm | Extruded vinyl skin | Internal carcasses in wet areas | 45 days |
Covered outdoor kitchens: covered, not exposed
StyleLex is the collection for alfresco kitchens, BBQ joinery and undercover exterior millwork. It is not intended for fully exposed, unroofed installations.
Install StyleLex in covered outdoor areas only, and protect panels from direct and prolonged sunlight. Do not expose them to temperatures above 70°C.
EGR's warranty defines a covered outdoor area as fully enclosed or covered, continuously shaded, and protected from direct sunlight. It also excludes direct or prolonged sun exposure.
StyleLite Waterproof and TruNatur Waterproof are indoor panels. Install them only in undercover indoor areas, away from direct sunlight.
Detailing waterproof cabinetry
Keep single doors to 600mm wide or less. StyleLex sets a maximum door of 600 × 1200mm; use multi-panel construction for larger doors.
Cut-outs are not recommended. Do not use StyleLite or TruNatur waterproof panels as routed panels that expose the core, as this may cause bowing.
Use PUR adhesive on edges in high-moisture or covered outdoor settings. TruNatur's guide also calls for sealing all edges, and for stainless steel or outdoor-rated hardware in harsh environments.
Questions people ask
Can StyleLite TruGloss be used in a bathroom?
Yes, for bathroom storage and vanity doors on moisture-resistant MDF. Where water exposure is a real risk, use StyleLite on a waterproof composite core, which carries a TruMatte face.
Which EGR panels are waterproof?
In Australia, EGR Waterproof panels: StyleLite Waterproof and TruNatur Waterproof for indoors, and StyleLex for covered outdoor areas. In the US, StyleLite MPP and StyleLex.
Can StyleLite Waterproof be used in an outdoor kitchen?
No. StyleLite Waterproof panels are not suitable for outdoor areas. For a covered outdoor kitchen, use StyleLex.
What counts as a covered outdoor area?
EGR's warranty defines it as an external alfresco or semi-outdoor area that is fully enclosed or covered, continuously shaded, and protected from direct sunlight.
Can EGR waterproof panels be hosed down?
Yes. EGR says its waterproof panels can be hosed out and dried with no damage, and will not expand or swell after prolonged moisture exposure.
