Marine plywood is chosen because it’s strong and resistant to moisture. Many homeowners prefer high durability marine plywood for areas exposed to humidity and frequent moisture. The way it will look, the longevity and how it is maintained depend on the surface finishing given to the plywood. The choice of the laminate, veneer, or polish finish will depend on where and how the plywood will be used in the interior of the house.

Why is Finishing Important?

A finish is not only attractive. A finish will protect the surface of the plywood from moisture, scuffing and general wear and tear. A beautifully finished marine plywood surface will be easier to clean, will last longer and will enhance its visual appeal and tactile qualities over many years, making it an ideal choice for long-lasting plywood sheets used in modern interiors.

Laminate finish – a practical and durable choice

Laminate is a synthetic manufactured surface that is glued onto a base made of plywood; it is widely used in contemporary interiors.

This is primarily suited for areas that will undergo a lot of footfall, for example, kitchen interiors, wardrobe interiors and office furniture. This is due to the inherent nature of the laminate having protection from moisture and stains, and the finish is easy to maintain.

Veneer finish – an elegant, natural look

Veneer is the name given to a thin section of timber which is adhered to the plywood surface to provide the look of a solid wood surface.

It is impossible to get the various grain patterns, warmth and natural appeal from a laminate as found in an elegant wood finish. Veneer needs a polish to give it a natural look, which is naturally applied over the veneer.

Polish finish – a flexible, traditional aesthetic

Polish is applied directly onto the plywood (typically on a veneer over a layer of plywood) in order to complement the natural grain pattern.

This gives a stunning, smooth surface which provides complete flexibility over colour and sheen tones. A polished finish is perfect for bespoke furniture pieces or for a luxurious setting.

How to Choose the Correct Finish

The easiest way to make the correct choice for your home interior is to evaluate the environment the chosen surface finishing will be exposed to, and its function.

If low maintenance is of high importance, then a laminate would be a good choice. If you require a natural wood look, then a veneer is perfect. And for exquisite fine furnishings in luxury living environments where there is limited footfall and low levels of moisture within the atmosphere, a polished finish is certainly what you are looking for.

The most important factor is to ensure you get the balance right between the practical aspect of your finish and its intended purpose.

Conclusion

The finishes of laminate, veneer and polish all have their own individual benefits, but the correct choice will not be clear unless regard is had to how and where the finish will be implemented.

High-quality marine plywood, used as the base, will enable you to feel assured of a visually attractive and structurally reliable finish for your interiors, regardless of your choice of finishing surface.