Furniture surfaced with veneers and laminates can give the look and feel of real wood, making the differences hard to notice. But, it is important to note that laminates and veneers are different from each other in how they are manufactured. This article will provide relevant information about the differences between laminates and veneers.
If you are in the process of decorating your home and are confused about whether to choose laminates or veneers, then it is important that you know their characteristics well before making a choice.Veneers: These are basically thin layers of real hardwood that are adhered to the surface of plywood or a particleboard. As veneers have a layer of solid wood, they tend to have all the basic features of wood, such as grain patterns and knots. Because veneers are essentially wood products, they can improve the look of the furniture by giving them the tone and color of wood. Yet, furniture surfaced with veneer is cheaper than solid wood furniture.Laminates: Unlike veneers, laminates are made by infusing multiple layers of kraft paper together under high pressure, with the top layer exhibiting the look of wood, right down to the detailing of the wood-grain.Difference between laminates and veneersAlthough it is hard to tell the difference between furniture pieces surfaced with laminate from the ones with wood veneers sheets, if you observe them closely, you will be able to differentiate between the two. Mentioned below are some of the common differences that exist between laminates and veneers:1. When it comes to the cost, laminates are more affordable because they are basically made from fusing together 7-8 layers of kraft paper. On the other hand, veneers may be a bit more expensive than laminates since the top layer is of natural wood.2. As veneers contain solid wood, they can be re-stained or re-finished, especially when you are bored with the same color. However, laminates cannot be re-stained or re-finished.4. Laminate designs can be repeated, but as veneers contain hardwood on the top layer, the pattern cannot be repeated. This is because every species of wood is unique.5. When it comes to maintenance, laminates can be maintained easily as these are waterproof, resistant to scratches and usually retain their beauty for years. On the other hand, veneers require a little more care and maintenance, and are required to be polished after every two or three years so that the veneer’s aesthetic appeal remains intact.When it comes to aesthetics, both veneers and laminates will have a stunning look. Wood veneer sheets, when installed on the furniture, can have a timeless appeal. Similarly, a laminate sheet can perfectly replicate solid wood and impart a regal look to the furniture, when installed.In case you are choosing veneer sheets for the furniture, then you can select one from the complete range of engineered wood veneers that are manufactured and marketed by reputed manufacturers. You just have to be sure about what you want and then make an informed choice accordingly.Also, while buying veneer sheets, it is important that you check on the certifications that the company holds as that is often a mark of quality that gives customers the assurance that the products are genuine and safe to be used in a domestic setup.
If giving your home a regal feel within budget is on your mind, going for engineered wood veneer to re-surface your furniture is a pragmatic choice.
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