We all want furniture that makes our interiors look rich and luxurious, made of wood that’s of the highest quality and appeal. However, procuring high-quality materials for furniture without leaving a dent in our pockets is almost impossible.

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Hence it’s always important to explore budget-friendly alternatives. This is where laminates and veneer sheets come into the picture. In recent times, there has been a considerable shift in the interior design and decor industry. Homeowners now prefer practical and minimalistic furniture rather than those that have elaborate designs and features. As a result, laminates and veneer sheets are recommended more often. 

But the question remains as to which one should you opt for? And which one is better in the long run? 一 laminates or veneers? Let’s find out.

Laminates and veneer sheets are the two most common finishing materials used for furniture made with MDF, particleboard plywood, or solid wood. 

 By definition, laminate is a printed surface that resembles genuine wood but is made of plastic and glued to a composite basis. Veneer, on the other hand, is a thin covering made of actual hardwood added on a cheaper material like plywood.

At first glance, it might seem like veneer is more authentic and the better choice, but that is not always the case. Both these materials have their own merits and shine in different circumstances. In the following section, we’ll evaluate the two materials on a variety of factors so you can decide which one is ideal for your project.

Laminates vs Veneers

  Laminate  Veneer 
Surface finish  Most laminates come with a sleek plastic-like finish Veneers have a natural wood-finish 
Maintenance  It is easy to clean, scratch-resistant, moisture resistant and will retain its  appearance for years  Veneers need more attention and are harder to maintain. To maintain their appeal, they must be polished on a regular basis.
Variety These come in a variety of colours and tints and are divided into categories like textured, high gloss, soft, and matte.  Different sorts of veneers are available, each with its own function. Raw, paper-backed, phenolic backed, laid up, reconstituted veneer, and wood on  wood are some of the many. 
Uses  Laminates are ideal for furniture that is used often and are in frequent contact with water. They are used for kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, tables, etc.  Veneers are preferred for furniture that are used as statement pieces. When compared to other materials, they add aesthetic value and a distinct look.
Cost  When compared to veneers, laminates are usually more pocket-friendly High-quality veneers are substantially more expensive than laminates. The price of veneer is determined by the type of wood used.

In conclusion, the better option depends on your personal preference and requirements. Both these products can enhance the looks and functionality of plywood or other wooden furniture. If your projects include the use of wood finishes it’s important you know the meaning, applications, types, and uses of laminates and veneers, as well as the fundamental differences between the two, to give clients and homeowners a wider range of options. 

At AK group’s Apple Ply, we offer not only a variety of laminates and veneer sheets but also a wide range of shuttering plywood PVC foam boards, block boards, etc. if you’re interested in making a purchase contact us for a quotation

Shop from the best plywood suppliers in Bangalore 一 Apply Ply! 

Dr Prashanth MA
Director at AK Group/Apple Plywood | + posts

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