Laminates and veneers have popularly emerged to be the most used surfacing materials for walls, furniture, and countertops. However, one of the major differences between these two is the pressing mechanism used during their manufacturing process. Veneers are made of thin layers which are pressed together on a plywood base and laminates are manufactured by pressing thin sheets of paper or plastic under high pressure. The sub-base of laminate sheets can be plywood, MDF, or even particleboard.
Let us discuss some aspects that you may want to consider while choosing between laminates and veneers to decorate your space,
Look and Appearance
Veneers are directly nature-souced from trees. They create a distinctive appearance and no two veneers will look the same. They have an impressive naturally grained texture which makes them look rich and expensive. They can also be customised into different colours and finishes. Laminate sheets, on the other hand, mimic natural surfaces but are not sourced from nature. However, Royale Touche laminates come in numerous colours, patterns, textures, and customizable prints. If you are planning to choose laminates for refurbishing purposes, you will never run out of options!
Durability
When it comes to durability, laminates are incredibly durable and veneers do not come anywhere close to their long-lasting lifespan. Laminates are often resistant to fire, water, and other harsh weather condition. Since veneers are made from natural materials, they do not have such hard resistance. Unlike veneers, laminates are suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, salons and spas, restaurants, and different high-traffic areas. However, laminate sheetsare impossible to repair and need to be changed entirely in cases of cracks and chips.
Resistance to Scratches
The guaranteed lifespan of laminate sheets is a result of their implausible resistance to scratches, smudges, stains, and other stubborn marks. This makes them great surfacing materials for kitchens, kids’ rooms, and even classrooms. They are also fire-resistant, which is a great benefit in times of an emergency. Veneers on the other hand are more susceptible to scratches and marks and their top polishing layer can easily peel off over time. Made from wood, these are definitely not fire or heat-resistant. However, veneers can be polished or sanded to make them look new like before.
Maintenance
Since veneers are not resistant to wear and tear or heat, they are required to be maintained frequently. Constant exposure to water and heat can damage the wood and ruin the luxurious appearance of this surface. It is best to avoid veneers for areas with high moisture as microdroplets can seep into the layers and loosen the top layer. Laminate sheets require very low maintenance as they are primarily resistant to scratches, smudges, heat, sun, and water. These surfaces can easily be cleaned with a soft, non-abrasive cloth and some soap water.
Cost
Veneers are manufactured from natural wood and they give you the luxury of enjoying the wooden touch and an earthy ambience inside your space. They are one of the costliest surfacing materials in the market because of their naturally-rooted manufacturing process. Even the top-notch laminates produced by the best laminate brand in India will be less expensive than veneers. However, if you want to consider cost-effectivity, laminates are much more economical than veneers. They are more affordable and durable than veneers.
Sustainability
Veneers are made from renewable resources like wood, making them an effective eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to other non-natural surfaces. Laminates are factory-manufactured products which are made from compressing plastic sheets and melamine resin. If you are concerned about global ecological health and have begun the journey to achieve a sustainable future, veneers are much more eco-friendly than laminate sheets.
How Will You Know What is Best for You?
Laminates and veneers are extraordinary surfacing materials which will change the outlook of your interiors. They both can make your space look effortlessly elegant and personalized.
Veneers will give you an ageless design with raw, unfiltered interiors that brings nature inside. If you love earthy elements that make you connect better with your surroundings, veneers will never disappoint you. Laminate sheets on the other hand will create a quirky, modern design that will suit your personality and character. Moreover, with laminates, you can also opt for earthy textures but they will not be from real wood-like veneers. Laminates are most definitely the most low-maintenance and cost-effective option for revamping your personal and commercial space.