What is a Laminate Door? Discover the Benefits and Types at T.H. Wiggans

For the last couple of years, door suppliers have been introducing laminate doors to their range. At our showroom in Kendal, we have a selection on display to make it easy to see the difference between pre-finished, unfinished, primed, and now laminate. If you're just looking online, you can't see or feel the difference, but hopefully, the information below will give you the answers you need.

Laminate doors have become increasingly popular in homes, offices, hospitals, and schools across the UK due to their practicality, value, and durability. At T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd, located in Kendal, the gateway to the Lake District, we pride ourselves on being the area's leading supplier of doors, with over 30 internal doors and 1000 door handles on display. Our location and extensive showroom make us the perfect destination for tradespeople, the general public, architects, and DIY enthusiasts looking to upgrade their homes with high-quality doors.

In our showroom, many customers ask us What is a Laminate doors? are made from layers of MDF wood, cardboard, and resin, and decorated with various colours or textures to create different effects. These layers are fused together under high pressure and temperature, creating a robust and protective top layer. This construction makes laminate doors cost-effective and valuable alternatives to traditional timber doors, offering the benefits of durability, ease of maintenance, and a wide range of aesthetic options.

Introduced to the market in 2018, laminate doors use innovative technology to address issues with traditional timber doors, such as porous surfaces and limited colour options. Like laminate flooring, these doors can be made in a variety of colours and styles to suit any home decor, whether modern or classic. They come ready to hang and are moisture-resistant, making them a practical choice for various settings, including homes with pets and children, and commercial buildings.

The construction of laminate doors involves multiple layers that create a strong, durable product. The core typically consists of wood (MDF, plywood, solid mahogany, or other timber) combined with other filling materials like cardboard or particleboard. The top layer is a laminated plastic that provides a protective finish. These doors are sturdy, lighter than traditional wooden doors, and capable of withstanding high impact and heavy traffic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and heavy use.

Depending on the materials used, laminate doors can offer different levels of soundproofing and insulation. This makes them suitable for various applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings. The top laminate layer can be produced in various colors or designs, including wood-effect finishes that mimic natural materials like oak, mahogany, or beech. Alternatively, laminate doors can be finished in any color, providing modern alternatives to wooden aesthetics.

Understanding the difference between veneer and laminate is crucial when choosing an internal door. Veneer doors use a thin layer of real hardwood over a cheaper material like plywood, offering a natural wood look and feel. In contrast, laminate doors have an artificial surface over a bonded composite core.

Here are some key differences:

Laminate:

• Man-made and ready to hang
• Durable and resistant to scratches and stains
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Wide range of colour and finish options
• Cost-effective and easy to produce
  

Wood Veneer :

• Real wood finish for a natural look
• Limited colour options, but can be stained
• Requires maintenance and protection with stain or varnish
• Susceptible to liquids, marks, and scratches
• Generally higher cost

Laminate doors offer numerous advantages, making them a practical choice for various settings:

• Durability: Highly durable with a hard-wearing finish, ideal for busy households and commercial spaces.
• Fully Finished: Ready to hang with no need for additional painting or varnishing.
• Consistency: Consistent wood grain effect across all doors, unlike natural timber.
• Variety: Available in numerous colours and tones to match any decor.
• Cost-Effective: Affordable without compromising on quality.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep them looking good.

Laminate doors are also an environmentally friendly option. The production process utilizes recycled materials, reducing the demand for raw timber and helping to conserve natural resources. Additionally, the durability and low maintenance of laminate doors mean they have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and further contributing to environmental sustainability.

The versatility of laminate doors makes them suitable for various applications, including:

• Residential Homes: Ideal for hallways, living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms due to their durability and aesthetic versatility.
• Commercial Buildings: Perfect for offices, hospitals, schools, and retail spaces where high traffic and heavy use are common.
• Rental Properties: Cost-effective and durable, making them a practical choice for landlords looking to provide quality doors without a high investment.

When selecting a laminate door, consider the following factors:

• Design and Colour: Choose a design and colour that complements your interior decor. Whether you prefer a wood-effect finish or a bold colour, laminate doors offer numerous options to suit your style.
• Durability Requirements: Consider the level of wear and tear the door will be subjected to. For high-traffic areas, opt for a door with a robust laminate finish that can withstand heavy use.
• Soundproofing and Insulation: If soundproofing and insulation are important, choose a laminate door with appropriate core materials that offer these benefits.

Maintaining laminate doors is straightforward. Here are some tips to keep them looking their best:

• Cleaning: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the door's surface, followed by drying with a dry cloth to remove any moisture. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the laminate finish.
• Protection: Protect the door from excessive moisture and direct sunlight to prevent warping and fading. Use door stops to prevent damage from impacts.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the door for any signs of wear or damage and address any issues promptly to ensure the door remains in good condition.

If you're looking for a durable, cost-effective internal door, laminate doors should be a top consideration. They offer the look of timber without the high cost and maintenance, making them ideal for homes and commercial buildings alike. Visit T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd in Kendal to explore our extensive range of laminate doors and find the perfect fit for your needs. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right door for your specific requirements, ensuring you get a product that meets your expectations in terms of quality, design, and functionality.