Types of veneers for wood panels
When looking for the perfect wood panel coating for your design projects, it’s crucial to understand the different options available and the unique characteristics each material offers.
In this article, we’ll explore various wood veneer types and identify the best scenarios for their use.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin layers of wood cut from a log and glued onto a substrate to form a panel or furniture piece. Each type of veneer has specific qualities, making it suitable for different applications and environments. Let’s dive into some of the main types of veneers available on the market.
Exotic Veneers
Exotic veneers feature unique patterns and distinct colors, adding a touch of exclusivity and sophistication to projects. They are perfect for luxury interior designs and custom furniture.
Maintaining exotic veneers involves regular cleaning with wood-specific products and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. It’s best to avoid using them in high-humidity areas or places with direct sun exposure.
Dyed Veneers
Dyed veneers are ideal for those seeking natural-looking wood veneers that can be coordinated with specific shades. They are perfect for interior design projects.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning with a damp cloth and wood-specific products. However, it’s advisable to avoid using them in areas with high moisture exposure.
With over 60 years of experience, TABU offers dyed veneers with an exquisite Italian touch, maintaining the elegance and sophistication of wood. Find TABU’s amazing products here at Plywood Express.
Melamine – Guararapes Sunset Collection
Melamine, also known as TFL (Thermal Fuse Laminate), is a coating composed of a decorative paper layer impregnated with melamine resin, pressed onto a wood substrate.
This coating is scratch, stain, and wear-resistant, making it ideal for shelving, kitchen cabinets, doors, and wall panels. Maintenance is easy, requiring only a damp cloth and non-abrasive products. Avoid using it in areas exposed to extreme heat.
The Sunset Collection from Guararapes includes NanoxClean technology, protecting against fungi and bacteria. Learn more.
Wilsonart High Pressure Laminate (HPL)
High-pressure laminate (HPL) sheets offer a durable surface that’s easy to clean and built to last. They’re affixed to panels with high-quality PVC glue.
These HPL panels are perfect for high-traffic areas requiring regular maintenance, such as kitchens, restaurants, cabinets, and gyms. Their scratch and stain resistance, combined with easy cleaning, make HPL a versatile and practical choice.
Maintenance is straightforward, needing only water and mild soap while avoiding abrasive products. At Plywood Express, we work with Wilsonart HPL. For more information, contact us.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are made from fast-growing woods, painted to resemble other wood types. Sustainable and economical, these coatings are popular for decks, facades, and outdoor furniture.
They are resistant and durable but not recommended for luxury interiors where authentic wood appearance is crucial. Maintenance is simple, requiring only water and mild soap and avoiding harsh chemicals.
All these products are available at Plywood Express. Check out the table below to compare product features.
Veneer Type Comparison Table
| Veneer Type | Scratch Resistance | Stain Resistance | Impact Resistance | Heat Resistance | Ease of Maintenance | Durability |
| Dyed Veneers (TABU) | Medium | Medium | Medium | High | Medium | Medium |
| Wilsonart HPL Laminate | High | High | Medium | Medium | Easy | High |
| Melamine – Sunset Collection | High | High | High | High | Easy | High |
| Exotic Veneers | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | High |
| Composite Veneers | High | High | High | Medium | Medium | High |
Contact our team to find the best material for you.
