Veneer sheets and laminates are two of the most profound names you will stumble upon while exploring surfacing solutions in the interior design market. Both have made a name for themselves as modern, reliable, and ergonomic surfacing solutions to traditional wood-based products such as furniture, doors, wardrobe, and so on. While veneer sheets are made using thin slices of wood carved out of wooden logs, laminates are made by compressing high-quality kraft paper along with thermosetting resins. To help you make an informed selection about the surfacing solution for your interior decoration, we bring to you a brief comparison between the heavyweights of this industry.
1. Variations
Both veneer sheets and laminates come in a myriad of options, depending upon various parameters such as their properties, manufacturing process, and quality of finishing.
Veneers in wood can be classified based on:
- Wood Type: Maple, Oak, Teak, Birch, Ironwood, Cherry, Rose Heart, and Walnut among others
- Cutting Technique: Quarter-Rift, Flat, Rotatory, and Quarter-Natural Cut
- Texture: Saw cut, special and raw
Laminates can be classified based on:
- Thickness: Regular and Compact Laminates
- Pressure: Low and High-Pressure Laminates
- Finishing: Matte Finish, High Gloss, Metallic, Acrylic, Glass and Textured Laminates
2. Applications
When it comes to applications, the possibilities are endless for both veneers and laminates. It won’t be incorrect to say that these two out-and-out dominate the niche market of surfacing solutions. Veneer sheets and laminates can be used on flooring, wardrobes, furniture, walls, and doors. Both veneer sheets and laminates, from textured veneers to Herringbone to digital laminates, present jaw-droppingly attractive designs that give your interior an elegant touch. The difference lies in the appearance, while veneers offer mostly wood-based natural looks, laminates are versatile in terms of offering both natural wood and modern designs. But, veneers (especially natural wood) present a unique look as they are made from natural wood barks of one-of-a-kind grain patterns, and laminates are printed with pre-designed patterns presenting a rather standard and easily replicable look useful in large spaces. At the end of the day, it is all about preference.
3. Sustainability
When it comes to sustainability, it is a common notion that veneers are better than laminates as they are made using natural wood. Also, laminates are known to be harmful for the environment due to the release of toxic substances. But with technological progress, things have changed. To be a sustainability conscious buyer, take a careful look into the manufacturing processes of the various brands. You’ll find that certain brands adopt ‘Zero-Liquid Discharge’ practices in their manufacturing processes and play their roles in fighting climate change.
Conclusion
Whether you want to give interiors a modern look or keep it traditional, both veneers and laminates can be great options. Depending on your budget and stylistic preferences, you can go for any one or even both. If you are looking for a surfacing solution for your residence or commercial space, buy from a company that offers a variety of premium veneers and laminates made using sustainable manufacturing processes.
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