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Both veneers and laminates are popular surface finishes for wardrobes, as they have the ability to blend with different design styles and enhance the overall look of the bedroom. Invest in a good surface finish so that the wardrobes can last for years with minimum maintenance. This guide will help you explore the strengths and shortcomings of veneer and laminate finishes, so that you can decide which is the right way to go.

Veneer

• Veneer is made with thin layers of real hardwood, which is sourced from trees and pressed onto a plywood base.
• Since veneer is a natural material, no two sheets of veneer look alike.

Pros

• Veneer has a unique appearance which resembles the natural grain of real wood. Its beauty lies in the variations in the natural grain patterns of wood, which imparts an organic look. Veneer-finish wardrobes effortlessly match with wooden beds.
• This material adds an element of warmth and richness to the wardrobes and forms a very good alternative to real wood.
• Veneer-finish wardrobes not only look luxurious and expensive, but they can be stained in any hue.
• They are a renewable resource and can last for approximately 15 years.

Cons

• Veneer is not heat-resistant and has the tendency to get damaged when subjected to heat.
• Since it is a natural material, it is available in limited designs.
• Unlike laminates, veneer is not waterproof in nature. However, a coat of melamine polish can make the surface waterproof.
• Since it is a soft material, it is susceptible to scratches. However, it can be sanded, buffed and polished to remove scratches and regain its original look.
• Good workmanship is required for veneer finish wardrobes so that the polish stands out and it does not form air bubbles.
• Another drawback is that it comprises very thin layers of wood, so the polish has the tendency to come off.

Laminate

• Laminates are factory-manufactured synthetic materials, which are made by bonding together decorative paper with plastic resins under high pressure. The printed surface of the laminates are coated with a transparent plastic protective sheet.

Pros

• They are durable, waterproof and scratch-resistant.
• The biggest advantage of using laminates is that they are available in endless colour possibilities, textures, finishes and trending designs. Laminates are also available in designs which simulate the look of leather, wood and silk.
• Another plus is that they are easy to maintain. The surface can be easily cleaned with a damp wipe or soapy water.
• Laminates are affordable and can last for a minimum span of 10 years.
• Unlike veneers, they do not require polishing or finishing.

Cons

• Laminates are not heat-resistant and may get damaged in the presence of heat.
• Laminates impart an artificial look because because they lack the natural feel of wood, and the same patterns are constantly repeated on every sheet.
• Another minus is that the surface finish cannot be altered. Note that some brands are offering customised laminates to customers.
• They comprise plastic resins so they are not eco-friendly in nature and will eventually end up in landfills.
• They have the tendency to chip or break at the corners. Once damaged, the laminate surface cannot be repaired.

Verdict

• When there is a time constraint, one can work faster and save time by opting for a laminate-finish wardrobe.
• For those who love the beauty of natural wood, veneer-finish wardrobes are the best choice.
• Laminates are best suited for modern interiors and children’s bedrooms, as these areas usually incorporate solid colours.
• If you are looking for an easy-to-maintain surface, then go for a laminate-finish wardrobe.
• In case of a budget constraint, laminate-finish wardrobes are the best choice.