The Benefits of Woodgrain Laminate Over Real Wood

Wood laminates take their design cues from natural woods to deliver the look you seek at a price point that keeps the budget in check. Learn why the Formica^® Woodgrain Collection is a fantastic choice for creating a warm, welcoming space while keeping durability, ease of fabrication and simple maintenance at the forefront.

The use of high-resolution scanners means large-scale scans of real wood can be captured and used as the foundational artwork for woodgrain laminates. With so many looks available in nature, we can capture trend-worthy woods and turn them into a wide range of laminate selections across the color spectrum. We can also enhance the variety of colors and grain patterns available by creating unique options not available in real wood products that enhance today’s design aesthetic.

Softwoods and plywoods are vulnerable and can be easily dented. They can also be affected by acidic drinks. Formica^® woodgrain laminate is impact-resistant, hard-working surfaces that stand up to the demands of high-traffic areas.

Perhaps the most well-known benefit of a woodgrain laminate over real wood is its cost. Formica^® woodgrain laminate can be fabricated and installed at a fraction of the price, freeing up budget dollars for other design elements. This is especially true when expensive, exotic woods are on the docket.

Laminate is a non-porous, hygienic surface that can be easily cleaned and disinfected. Because of this, it’s a perfect choice in healthcare design and for other spaces where surfaces must be able to withstand stringent cleaning protocols. Real wood is more limited as far as which products can be used safely to maintain a hygienic surface.

Over time, real wood can change color when exposed to light or other environmental factors. It can also be difficult to match stains when different batches of materials are involved. Formica^® woodgrain laminate offers color consistency across the multiple elements of a project, even if they are completed at different times. This means cabinetry, feature walls, furniture and millwork are in perfect color synchronicity.

Some woods have long lead times, which extend the more rare or exotic the selection. Their woodgrain laminate counterparts can be easily manufactured and fabricated, leading to shorter lead times that keep your project on track.

In addition to their exorbitant price point, some exotic and premium woods are endangered and sourced from fragile ecosystems. Formica® woodgrain laminate is a responsible design choice due to our policy of relying on raw materials sourced from vendors that use managed, renewable sources. 

Woodgrain laminate continues to be an excellent way to achieve the beautiful look of wood in today’s designs — without many of the constraints. With so many patterns and colors to choose from, the Formica® Woodgrain Collection is second to none.