A laminate decision is mostly a design decision, but it has practical consequences: how the surface wears, how it shows fingerprints, whether it suits a kitchen, and how well it matches the rest of the room. The design side is your call. This page covers the practical side.
What a decorative laminate is
A decorative laminate is a thin sheet made from layers of resin-impregnated paper, pressed together under heat and pressure, with a decorative top layer. It is glued onto a base board such as plywood or MDF to give a durable, easy-to-clean surface. Sheets are commonly sold in an 8 x 4 ft size, and general-purpose decorative laminates are commonly around 0.8 to 1 mm thick. Thicknesses and sizes differ by brand and range, so confirm before you order.
Ways to choose
| If you want... | Look at |
|---|---|
| A surface that hides fingerprints | Matte laminates |
| A bright, reflective look | Glossy laminates |
| A warm, natural look | Wood finish laminates |
| A hard-wearing surface for heavy use | High pressure laminates |
| A general overview of designs | Decorative laminates |
| Advice on shutters, carcasses and edges | Laminates for furniture |
Ask for samples
Laminate colours look different on a screen, in a showroom light, and in your home. Check a physical sample under the lighting where it will be used, and look at it in daylight. Ask for the exact design code and finish name, so that the board you receive matches the sample.
Plan the base board too
A laminate is only as flat as what is underneath it. Pair it with a sound plywood core and consider a balancing laminate on the reverse of larger panels. Our guide to choosing laminates explains the thinking.
Bulk and project quantities
Designers and manufacturers often need many sheets of a single design. Batch variation is a real thing, so order the full quantity in one go where you can. Send your list through bulk and project orders.
Laminate brands you can ask us about
Products from leading brands including the names below. Ask us which ranges and sizes are currently available.
