Interior · 7 min read
Interior materials guide: laminates, veneers and finishes compared
Clients ask the same questions on every project: what is the difference between laminate and veneer, and which board should we use? This guide gives you clear answers to explain the choices.
Boards: what furniture is made from
- Plywood: layers of wood veneer glued together. Indian standards cover grades for general use and for marine or boiling-water-proof use; choose the grade to suit moisture, for example kitchens and bathrooms.
- MDF: smooth and stable, good for painted or routed shutters, but weaker with moisture
- High-density moisture-resistant boards: denser than MDF, often used in kitchens and wardrobes
- Particle board: economical, best for dry areas and low loads
Finishes: what you see and touch
- Laminate: a durable printed sheet. Hard-wearing, easy to clean, many colours and textures.
- Veneer: a thin slice of real wood. Natural grain, warm look, needs polishing and more care.
- Painted or lacquer finish: smooth, seamless colour. Looks premium; chips need careful repair.
- Acrylic and high-gloss finishes: mirror-like shine, shows scratches and fingerprints more
- Solid wood: the most natural option, costly and moves with humidity
How to choose
Ask three questions: how much wear will this surface get, how much moisture is around it, and what budget and look does the client want? Kitchens and children’s rooms need tough finishes. Living areas can take more delicate, premium ones.
Always show samples
Print and screen colours lie. Show real samples in the room’s light, write the exact product code on the drawing, and keep a signed copy of the approved material board.
Rules, fees and practices change. Always check the current official source for your city and project.