FAQs
Got a question? Our helpful team is always happy to help. Or check out some of the things we’re asked most often here. From the best way to care for Compac Panels products, to what warranties cover to when to use plywood. All answered!
What does Compac Panels manufacture?
Compac Panels manufactures laminated MDF and plywood panels for further processing into finished interior and commercial products.
Our panels are used by joiners, cabinetmakers, shopfitters, furniture manufacturers, caravan and motorhome builders, commercial fit-out specialists, and re-processors across New Zealand and Australia.
Production is carried out in Dargaville, New Zealand, using quality substrates, decorative laminates and controlled lamination processes.
Where are Compac Panels made?
Compac Panels are manufactured in Dargaville, New Zealand.
We laminate MDF and plywood panels locally, allowing us to manage production quality, lead times and supply consistency for commercial customers, manufacturers and resellers.
Who uses Compac Panels products?
Compac Panels products are used by commercial businesses that manufacture, process or install interior panel products.
This includes joiners, cabinetmakers, kitchen manufacturers, shopfitters, furniture makers, interior fit-out companies, caravan and motorhome manufacturers, and panel resellers.
Can the public buy directly from Compac Panels?
No. Compac Panels supplies commercial businesses, resellers and manufacturers only.
If you are a homeowner or end user, we recommend speaking with your joiner, cabinetmaker, builder or local reseller about using Compac Panels products in your project.
What does the 10-year warrantee cover?
The 10-year warranty covers the substrate, laminate and lamination when the product is used under normal, fit-for-purpose conditions.
The warranty applies when the product is installed, handled, stored and used correctly for its intended interior application.
Is freight include in the pricing?
Freight to resellers is free to metropolitan areas on orders over our minimum freight value.
Please note that a packing fee applies to every dispatch.
For non-metropolitan areas, special freight requirements or smaller orders, freight terms may vary.
Do I need a forklift to unload my packs?
Yes, a forklift is recommended for unloading packs.
If you do not have forklift access, please let us know when placing your order. Smaller packs may be required depending on the delivery site and unloading method.
How long should I expect my order to take?
Please allow approximately one week for order processing, plus freight time.
Lead times can vary depending on product availability, order size, location and transport schedules.
Do you supply panels across New Zealand?
Yes. Compac Panels supplies commercial customers and resellers across New Zealand.
Freight is available to metropolitan areas, regional locations and approved reseller networks.
Do you supply panels to Australia?
Yes. Compac Panels products are used by customers and manufacturers across New Zealand and Australia.
For Australian supply, please contact the Compac Panels team to discuss product availability, freight and order requirements.
What types of panels does Compac Panels supply?
Compac Panels supplies a range of decorative and functional panel products for interior and commercial surfaces.
This includes laminated MDF, laminated plywood, acrylic panels, decorative panels, woodgrain finishes, matte panels, gloss panels, lightweight plywood, lining panels and specialist surface products.
What are Compac Panels products used for?
Compac Panels products are used for cabinetry, kitchens, laundries, wardrobes, furniture, wall linings, commercial interiors, shopfitting, motorhomes, caravans, displays, office fit-outs and other interior surface applications.
Different products suit different applications, so the correct panel should be selected based on the environment, finish, durability requirements and processing method.
Are Compac Panels products suitable for kitchens?
Yes, selected Compac Panels products are suitable for kitchen cabinetry and interior joinery.
Products such as Acrylic, SatinWood, NaturaWood, DecorPanel and other decorative surface ranges are commonly used for kitchen fronts, cabinetry, drawers, panels and feature surfaces.
The correct product should be selected based on the required finish, handling, cleaning, edge detail and performance requirements.
Are Compac Panels products suitable for bathrooms and laundries?
For wet areas, we recommend using one of our waterproof laminate ranges such as Acrylic, PanelLam or SatinWood, in conjunction with our HMR MDF, which is a water-resistant substrate.
These products are suitable for bathroom and laundry cabinetry when selected, processed and installed correctly for the application.
Panels should not be exposed to standing water or continuous moisture, and correct sealing, edging and installation methods should always be followed.
Are Compac Panels products suitable for commercial interiors?
Yes. Compac Panels products are widely used in commercial interiors, including retail spaces, offices, education facilities, hospitality fit-outs, display areas and shopfitting projects.
Commercial suitability depends on the product range, surface finish, wear requirements and intended use.
Where would I use lightweight plywood?
Lightweight plywood is ideal for motorhomes, caravans, transportable builds, mobile interiors and joinery where reducing weight is important.
The plywood is around 35% to 40% lighter than MDF, helping reduce the overall weight of the build. It also offers better moisture resistance than MDF, making it a practical choice for selected mobile and interior applications.
Why is New Zealand MDF better than others on the market?
New Zealand MDF is produced from fast-growing pine, which creates a long wood fibre. This helps produce a strong board with good screw-holding ability and reliable machining performance.
New Zealand only produces E0 board, which has very low formaldehyde levels. This makes it safer and more pleasant to process compared with higher-emission board products.
What does E0 MDF mean?
E0 MDF refers to MDF with very low formaldehyde emissions.
This makes it a safer and more environmentally responsible substrate option for interior panel products, especially for joinery, cabinetry and commercial interiors.
Are Compac Panels products environmentally responsible?
Compac Panels uses sustainably sourced wood and environmentally responsible laminates where possible.
By manufacturing in New Zealand and pressing panels locally, we can better control production quality, reduce unnecessary stock waste and support reliable supply for commercial customers.
Can Compac Panels products be cut, edged and machined?
Yes. Compac Panels products are designed for further processing by commercial manufacturers, joiners, cabinetmakers and re-processors.
Panels can generally be cut, edged, drilled and machined using suitable equipment, tooling and handling methods. Processing requirements may vary by product type and surface finish.
Can I request a sample?
Yes. Commercial customers, resellers, designers, architects and manufacturers can request samples to review colour, surface finish, texture and suitability.
Samples are helpful when comparing finishes, matching project materials or presenting options to clients.
How should Compac Panels products be stored?
Panels should be stored flat, dry and protected from moisture, direct weather exposure and site damage.
They should be kept in a clean, stable environment before processing or installation. Incorrect storage can affect panel performance and may impact warranty coverage.
How should Compac Panels products be cleaned?
Most decorative panel surfaces can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution.
Avoid abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, scouring pads or aggressive cleaning methods, as these may damage the surface finish.
Always follow the care and maintenance recommendations for the specific product range.
Can Compac Panels help me choose the right product?
Yes. The Compac Panels team can help commercial customers, resellers and manufacturers select the right panel range for their application.
Product choice depends on the finish required, substrate, durability, processing method, environment and end-use.
Can I order online?
Yes. Commercial customers can order online through our wholesale portal.
If you do not already have access, please contact Compac Panels or complete the Trade Account Registration form.
For help using the portal, watch our step-by-step Online Ordering Guide.
How do I download full-size product images?
Full-size product images can be downloaded from each product page.
These images can be used for presentations, project planning, client selections and design reference.