No matter how you design a storage unit for your home interior, there is one thing that does make a big difference in the end. Yes, we are talking about the surface finish. At the end, how the cabinet or wardrobe looks will depend on the type of finish you choose.
The two of the most popular finishes used on various types of storage units are acrylic and membrane. Both these finishes can add style and character to your home décor and make them look unique. Still, you need to know how one differs from the other.
So, in this article, we will discuss these two types of finishes and their pros and cons.
Membrane Finish
A membrane finish is done by using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foil, which is available in various finishes, including matte, glossy, and even metal or wooden finishes. This thin foil is wrapped around the fibreboard structure under high pressure.
Even though it is an economical option, the main advantage is that it delivers a smooth and stylish look to any place. At the same time, you can mix and match with the various colour options available to create an eye-catching blend of hues for your home interior.
Keep in mind that a membrane finish is different from a laminated finish. While the membrane is a PVC foil, laminate is a layer of flat paper or synthetic resins glued together. Membranes deliver a more natural look to any surface compared to laminates. Edge-banding is also not needed with membranes as it can cover all the edges and grooves smoothly. However, they are pricier than laminate finishes.
Pros and Cons of Membrane Finish
Pros
- They deliver a smooth finish and a sophisticated touch to any home interior.
- Membrane finishes have a better shelf life.
- They can be easily cleaned with a mild detergent and a soft piece of cloth. However, the use of abrasive materials can lead to surface scratches.
- They have good durability and can withstand the action of water effectively. They are a good choice for all types of weather.
- No edge-banding is needed and can be quickly wrapped around edges.
- They are more economical than acrylic finishes.
Cons
- Their colour can fade upon continuous exposure to the sun.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance is needed to preserve the look
- They can peel off due to rough handling. So scrubbers and strong chemical cleaners can’t be used.
Acrylic Finish
This finish is available in the form of sheets that provide a high-gloss appearance to any surface. The sheets are pasted on MDF boards and covered with a protective layer. The edges are also sealed for better durability.
These are also available in a wide range of bright and vibrant colours. The mirror-like finish of acrylic on any home décor is also preserved for years. It is also the most weather-resistant among all the surface finishes. They are an excellent choice for hot and humid weather.
So, if you are looking for something ultra-glossy, acrylic is the best option. However, stains and smudges are more readily visible on the shiny surface. So, it needs to be cleaned regularly. Other than that, acrylic is also a costlier choice than the different forms of surface finishes.
Pros and Cons of Acrylic Finish
Pros
- The excellent surface finish that acrylic delivers makes this a perfect choice for a shiny and sophisticated home interior.
- They come in a wide variety of colours.
- They can retain the shine for years without fading. Moreover, they are also highly resistant to moisture and UV rays. The use of protective coating also makes them more resistant to scratches.
- They are easy to clean with lukewarm water and mild soap.
Cons
- An acrylic finish is an expensive option.
- Since dirt and fingerprints are easily visible on a glossy surface, regular cleaning is a must. Accidental scratches are also more visible on the shiny surface.
- They are pasted on a laminated surface. So the quality of craftsmanship required is high.
- If you are looking for a natural vibe or matte finish, acrylic is not the best option.
Comparison: Acrylic and Membrane
The fact is, when it comes to comparing and choosing between acrylic or membrane finish, there is no clear winner. The final choice will depend on a wide range of factors like personal preference, interior specifications, lighting, and budget.
That said, acrylic is best suited for a modern home interior. But membrane finish can be used over modern as well as traditional home décor. That makes membranes a more versatile choice. Then, again, you can combine the best of both worlds to give a unique feel to your kitchen.
For example, the upper cabinets can have an acrylic finish, and the lower cabinets can be given a membrane layer. Our advice is if your kitchen space is prone to rough use, it is best to make limited use of acrylic. However, if you are on a limited budget, the membrane is the right choice.
Before choosing a finish, it is best to discuss the details of your requirement and your budget with an interior designer. In the hands of a professional designer like HomeLane, both types of finishes can transform your kitchen space dramatically. You can check the details on the website to find out the latest designs for both types of finishes.
Now that you have all the information, it is time to make the right choice of acrylic or membrane.
