Acrylic vs. PVC Laminates: Cost, Durability and Appearance

By Usha Balasubramanyan- September 11, 2024

Regardless of the material you use for the core of your kitchen cabinets or wardrobes (which will determine their durability), the surface finishes that you see on the outside are what will determine the functionality and look that you are trying to achieve for your home interior design. Classy cabinet finishes can make your home look like it’s straight out of the pages of a glossy magazine. The right choice of materials will define the character and style of your home interiors, and we’re here to help you with all the research you need to make your decisions!

Some of the most significant differences between acrylic and laminate finishes include how they look, the cost of the materials, maintenance procedures, and so on. Both these materials are popular finishing materials for kitchens and wardrobes alike. So, acrylic vs laminates, which one to choose for your home? We’ve put together the pros and cons of these materials so you can pick the one that works for you.

Acrylic Finish Laminates

Acrylic sheets are available in a wide range of colours and are pasted on the MDF board and sealed with a protective layer to give a seamless finish. The end result is a highly reflective surface with a mirror-like sheen that retains its colour and brightness over the years. When it comes to the acrylic vs laminate cost difference, there are several factors that are taken into consideration. However, on average, acrylic finish is available at around INR 1500, whereas, laminate finish is available at around INR 800.

PVC Laminates

Laminates are sheets that are made by bonding together decorative paper and plastic resins in the form of sheets. They are available in matte, glossy, textured and high gloss finishes and in a wide range of patterns and solid colours. When it comes to acrylic finish vs laminate finish, please remember that laminates are pasted on MDF or plywood and finished by edge banding the sides. While the high gloss laminates do give an appearance similar to acrylic, they are not the same. Therefore, when it comes to acrylic vs laminates, one major thing you need to keep in mind is the look you aim to get by using these materials.

acrylic or pvc laminate

So, Acrylic vs Laminates, Which Material to Choose?

When it comes to choosing between acrylic vs laminates, you need to consider the different finishes these materials give. Weigh the pros and cons of each before you decide! The differences between laminate and acrylic are mentioned in the table below:

	Acrylic	Laminate
Durability	Durable and hard-wearing.	Durable and hard-wearing.
Appearance	Gives the kitchen a super glossy, sophisticated appearance as compared to a laminate or membrane finish.	High gloss laminates give a similar appearance to acrylic, but without brilliance. The result will be a bit more subdued.
Resistance to water and heat	Acrylic finishes are waterproof and resistant to heat.	Laminates are moisture and heat resistant.
Resistance to scratches	Acrylic surfaces can get scratched by very sharp objects.	Laminates can get scratched by very sharp objects. The edges of laminates can get chipped if handled roughly.
Maintenance	The glossy surface easily shows up fingerprints, splashes and stains. Regular wiping with soap and water is required to keep it clean, and this needs to be done carefully to avoid ‘streaking’.	Non-glossy laminates do not show up fingerprints or dirt easily. Laminates can be wiped easily.
Edging	Acrylic sheets are thin and can be seamlessly finished across the edges of the board.	Edge band strips need to be used on the edges of the board, to avoid seeing the edges of laminate sheets which do not look good.
Cost	Considered a premium finish, and therefore on the expensive side when compared to other finishes	Much more cost-effective and budget-friendly than acrylic finishes
Availability	Available in a wide range of solid colours, not available in patterns and textures.	Available in a wide range of solid colours, patterns, textures including metallic and wood look-alike finishes
Environmental impact	Considered to be non-toxic	Resins and binders could be used during the manufacturing process which can cause minimal amounts of off-gassing.
Repairs	Replacing an acrylic shutter after several years depends on the availability of the same sheet. There may be colour disparities if you try to obtain a replacement.	Replacing a laminated shutter after several years is not difficult. However, the replacement, even when the same sheet is purchased, will appear to be brighter and cleaner than the older shutters.

difference between acrylic and PVC laminates

So, laminate vs acrylic, what’s the final verdict? High gloss laminate vs acrylic, no matter which material you choose will depend on various factors. Your decision, in the end, will be heavily influenced by your budget and how well you are able to maintain your cabinets.

Here’s our take on this! Both options suit contemporary or minimalistic interior themes and are available in an array of colours to suit your palette and décor theme. If you are thinking of a glossy effect, though, do keep in mind that high-gloss laminates will never give you the mirror-like finish of acrylic.

If you need help making these all-important décor decisions and are still confused between acrylic sheet vs laminate materials, help is at hand! Connect with the HomeLane team to get rid of the acrylic vs laminates doubt, and we’ll help you to narrow down your selection and make the right choices.

FAQs

1. What Is the Difference between Acrylic and Laminate Countertops?

Acrylic countertops are highly glossy and lend your kitchen countertop a luxurious appeal. Laminates create a bit muted effect and provide a blood design for stone and wood finish countertops.

2. Acrylic vs laminates, which Finish Is Best for a Modular Kitchen?

When it comes to choosing between acrylic vs laminates, one major aspect that can influence your decision is the kind of finishes these materials give. Laminates are slightly better than acrylic when it comes to kitchen cabinets. Laminates are cost-effective, highly durable and require lower maintenance when compared to acrylic.

3. Acrylic vs laminates, Which Is Better?

So, acrylic vs laminates, which one would be better for your home? Both have specific advantages and disadvantages from a utilitarian point of view no matter whether you are planning to go for lavish modular kitchen designs or minimalistic wardrobe designs. However, laminate is much more cost-effective and budget-friendly than acrylic. Acrylic can be used for a luxurious appeal, whereas laminates are easy to maintain in everyday life.

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