If you have been recently shopping for interiors, there are more chances than not that you came across laminates in one form or another.
Available in a range of decorative patterns and colours, laminate material forms the surface of a lot more products than you can imagine. Thus, here is a quick summary of the features of this versatile material and tips on using it in your home.
What Is a Laminate?
what-is-laminate
A composite artificial material
If you’re new to the world of interiors, it’s normal to wonder what is a laminate. So, a laminate is the most commonly used finishing layer for MDF, plywood, particleboard, wooden furniture, wall panels and flooring options.
Essentially, a composite artificial material, they are made by pressing together thin layers of flat paper and resins. The upper layer is often printed with a decorative pattern or colour.
How to Choose a Laminate?
With over 700 permutations and combinations, it’s not easy to choose a laminate. We hear you, but fear not! Here are some tips to help you with the selection process:
You can use two solid colours to create pleasing combinations. But too much pop is time to stop!
If you’ve chosen a pop colour laminate for your cabinets, then go with a lighter tone laminate on the countertop and dado area.
For your base units, go for a darker solid colour as these laminated areas are used frequently, and more prone to getting dirty.
For more tips on how to choose a laminate, watch the video below:
What Are the Types of Laminates?
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Five main types of laminates exist
Decorative laminates – These types of laminates have greater aesthetic appeal in terms of laminate finishes and patterns. Also, you can use decorative laminates for doing ornamental overlays on furniture. And there are so many to choose from as well! Take a look at some popular decorative laminates.
Industrial laminates – These types of laminates have higher strength and are more resistant to wear and tear. Thus, they include high-performance ones which are fire retardant, antibacterial and chemical resistant for application in hospitals and other industries.
Compact laminates – Also known as laminate boards, these types of laminates are fairly thick ones. That’s why these boards are usually self-supporting, and you do not need to glue them onto any other material.
Post formed laminates – These flexible laminate versions are thinner than regular laminates. You can use them to wrap around tables, columns etc.
High-pressure and low-pressure laminates – Differing only in the pressure with which the laminate material is applied on a substrate, HPL is usually used with plywood while LPL finds its use with MDF.
Are Laminates Available in Different Colours?
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Used to mimic natural materials
Yes. As different types of laminates exist, they can be found in a multitude of colours. In fact, laminates are available in a wide variety of patterns. So, if you want to simulate the appearance of solid wood textures and other natural materials, you should use laminates. They are also available in bright colours and funky motifs.
What Are the Types of Laminate Finishes?
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Glossy and matte finishes
Although available in an array of finishes, the most common laminate finishes are matte, smooth, medium to high gloss laminate finishes. Furniture and wall finishes often use textured laminates, which replicate the tactile feel of natural materials. Popularly used textures include handscraped, rustic wood, metallic and leather finishes.
What Sizes Are Laminate Materials Available In?
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You would need expert opinion to find the right size
Laminate materials are commercially available in sheets, panels and boards depending on the type of application. The approximate size of sheets available is around 8 feet by 4 feet. Wall panels and boards are available as squares or rectangles in different sizes.
How Durable Are Laminates as Materials?
laminates-in-kitchen-cabinets
More durable than solid wood
Laminates are fairly durable and scratch resistant. They are more resistant to wear and tear, moisture, and heat when compared to veneer and solid wood products. However, laminated surfaces are prone to chipping.
How Much Do Laminates Cost?
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A great swap for hardwood flooring
When we’re talking about laminated materials, we’ve to admit that they are cheaper than veneers. Laminated wooden flooring is also an inexpensive alternative to solid hardwood floors.
Price of Materials & Finishes Compared to Laminates
Matte Laminates Glossy & Textured Laminates Membrane Acrylic PU Finish
Base Price >20% more expensive >20% more expensive >40% more expensive >60% more expensive
Considering matte laminates as the base price, here’s an incremental cost of the other types of finishes
Are Laminates Easy to Maintain?
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Easy to clean
Laminated products are easier to maintain and can last with just a few measures. Dust your laminated surfaces regularly. Clean with a mildly wet cloth and wipe dry with gentle strokes. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool scrubbers. Protect the surface from exposure to excess water and sunlight. For the proper lowdown, you can check out How to Clean & Maintain Laminate Surfaces.
How to Install, Repair and Replace Laminates?
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A fuss-free installation
Flooring: It is easier to install laminated wooden flooring when compared to vitrified tiles or marble. You can interlock the boards using a tongue and groove joint. You can install laminate flooring on top of an existing floor, making them suitable for DIY refurbishment projects.
Furniture & Wall Panels: You can also fix laminated sheets onto furniture using high-grade adhesives. You’ve to replace chipped or warped laminates on furniture completely by stripping them off. It is best to hire professionals for this process, as it requires some finesse.
When to Use Laminate Finishes?
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A laminate bar cum storage unit
Decorative laminates such as high gloss laminate and marble finish laminate are perfect for everyday surfaces that see a lot of wear and tear — such as your living room or bedroom floor, table tops, cabinet shutters etc. They are also an inexpensive alternative to solid wood products when it comes to flooring. Patterned versions are a great way to liven up your furniture and add some interest to a space.
While these are available in a wide variety of realistic textures, they can sometimes have a rather plastic and mass-produced feel. If you’re aiming for a distinctive, authentic look for a focal piece of furniture, go with veneers or solid wood instead.
Hence, to make a laminate purchase, take into account all the above factors and your own custom requirements. Furthermore, always make sure that laminates used for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor areas are of the requisite quality to withstand exposure to heat and moisture.
Also, if you liked reading this, take a look at Acrylic or Laminate: Which is the Better Finish?
Including how much it costs and tips to choose
