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While solid wood doors may be a timeless addition to your home, they may be too expensive to use throughout your property. Therefore, it is best to use wood veneer or laminate wood as they mimic the look and feel of the real thing. Let’s take a closer look at veneer vs laminate doors in terms of their unique characteristics, how to tell them apart, and why each product might be the best option for your property.
What Is Wood Veneer?
Wood veneer is made by slicing thin sheets of wood from a tree and then joining them together. A typical veneer is about .5 millimeters thick, about 30 times thinner than a typical solid wood piece. However, since the veneer itself is derived from an actual tree, it’s hard to tell from a distance if a door is made from a veneer vs solid wood.
What Is Laminate Wood?
Laminate is a manufactured product that typically involves a resin such as melamine that is applied to fiberboard or a similar material. This combination is then applied to the door itself to make it look as if it’s covered by wood. Using laminate for wood doors is generally cheaper than solid wood or a veneer as you aren’t using as much natural product to create the final product.
Advantages of Wood Veneer Doors
One of the primary advantages of a wood veneer is that you capture the natural grain of the material that was sliced off of the tree. Since you’re using something that came off of a tree, it looks more like solid wood than a laminate tends to. It also means that you can choose to paint or stain your door to help it match the aesthetic of any room in your house.
Besides, wood veneer doors are relatively easy to maintain. They can be cleaned using mild soap and water, and periodic polishing or waxing can help maintain their natural luster.
Advantages of Laminate Doors
One of the key benefits to laminate wood is that it is extremely durable. Depending on how they are constructed, a laminate wood door can protect against water, sun, and other types of damage. Furthermore, they tend to be extremely easy to clean, which may be ideal if you have kids or pets.
Laminate surfaces are also resistant to scratches or discoloration, which means that they will look like new for years after you have them installed in your home. Finally, laminate doors come in a variety of colors and finishes to help you customize the look of a door without having to spend as much money as you would on a solid wood or wood veneer product.
How to Tell the Difference Between Wood Veneer and Laminate Doors
The key difference between a veneer and laminate wood is that a veneer will have a natural grain whereas laminate has a uniform finish. Furthermore, each sheet of veneer will have a grain pattern that is different from others in circulation.
As laminate is a man-made product, it will come with a variety of colors and finishes that aren’t possible with a veneer. Therefore, if you see a door that is covered in glossy pink paint with a polka dot pattern, there is a good chance that you’re looking at a laminate wood product.
Choosing Between Wood Veneer and Laminate Doors
Wood veneer doors are ideal for anyone who is looking for a natural product without having to pay full price for it. Their natural and authentic look showcases the unique grain patterns and textures of real wood. They are also best suited for those who want a product that they can refinish or recycle as needed as opposed to buying something that they have to throw away.
Besides, wood veneer doors are relatively durable and can withstand everyday use. However, since the surface is made of real wood, it can be susceptible to scratches, dents, and fading over time.
Laminate doors are highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and fading. The synthetic layers and resin coating provide protection and make them more resistant to wear and tear. They are generally more resistant to moisture and heat compared to wood veneer doors.
Wood veneer doors require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance. They may need periodic polishing or refinishing to maintain their natural luster. Minor scratches or blemishes can be repaired through sanding and refinishing.
Laminate doors are relatively low maintenance. They are easy to clean and require minimal upkeep. Regular dusting and occasional wiping with a damp cloth are usually sufficient to keep them looking clean and fresh. Unlike wood veneer, they do not require staining or sealing.
Whether you choose a wood veneer or laminate door, you will find a quality product that meets your needs and budget. If you are in the market for a wood door, the folks at LESSO are ready to help. You can visit our site today to take a closer look at our product selection or make a purchase.
FAQ about Doors
Veneer is more expensive than laminate because it’s made of real wood, while laminate is man-made. Veneer is sliced from a solid wood log and glued to a substrate like plywood or particleboard. Laminate, on the other hand, is made of paper, resin, and decorative film. Veneer is more expensive than laminate for the following reasons:
- Real wood: Veneer is made of natural material, which is more expensive than man-made materials like laminate.
- Thin layer: Veneer is a very thin layer of wood, which means it takes more wood to cover a surface with veneer than with laminate.
- Labor-intensive: Veneer is a labor-intensive product that requires skilled craftsmen to slice, glue, and finish the wood.
Wood veneer lifespan depends on quality, wood type, and wear. High-quality veneers with thicker wood layers are more scratch-resistant and durable. Oak and maple are more durable than pine. High traffic areas wear out veneers more quickly. To extend lifespan, be careful when moving furniture, clean regularly, and refinish every few years. Proper care ensures a beautiful and stylish addition to your home.
Wood veneer doors are a popular and affordable choice for their natural beauty, but can be susceptible to scratches and dents. To clean them, follow these tips:
- Dust regularly. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dirt and debris.
- Wipe with a damp cloth. Use mild soap and water, and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Dry thoroughly. Prevent warping or swelling by drying doors with a clean, dry cloth.
- Avoid furniture polish. Use a polish specifically designed for wood veneer.
- Refinish periodically. Faded or damaged finishes can be refinished by professionals or DIY enthusiasts.
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