Paint vs Laminate for walls: What should be the right choice?

Merino Laminates, June 8, 2021 Updated On : April 29, 2025

Cons of Using Paints:
Why to Choose Laminates Over Paints for Walls?
How Merino Can Help You?

After years of looking at the same, uninteresting walls of your home, are you finally thinking about giving them a makeover? Have you been wondering how to execute this, and what would be the right choice for you – Laminate or Paint for the walls? You have come to the right place. Before you decide, read on to make an informed choice. Using either of these materials comes with their own share of pros and cons. It is not every day that you decide to remodel the interiors of your home, and you will most probably spend a good amount of money on the process. Hence, you must be aware of all the options out there to pick the best possible for you.

Paint has for centuries been the first and most traditional choice homeowners have made when they think of giving their walls a fresh new look. Giving your walls a fresh new coat of paint is a usual practise every few years. Different brands of paint are coming out with countless choices in colors and can even be done in some textures now. Using bright coloured paint for your kid’s rooms, getting a featured wall to hang pictures on and using paint to manipulate how spacious and expansive the room looks are common practices in modern interior designing. Not to forget, painting is also one of the cheapest and most convenient methods been employed when remodelling.

Cons of Using Paints:

There are some cons to using paint that you should consider.

Re-painting your walls is a ridiculously time-consuming process. It may take you several weeks to actually finish painting your entire house.
Some people have an adverse reaction to paint and its fumes. They may develop symptoms such as congestion and cough.
On direct contact with skin, paint may even cause irritation and blisters.
Under prolonged exposure, this is a health risk to consider.
Painting also does not provide solutions to certain issues that your walls may have, especially if they are old-like uneven surfaces.
Painting may not be the lowest maintenance option, particularly if yours is a house with children.

Why to Choose Laminates Over Paints for Walls?

Laminates, sometimes referred to as mica sheets are the other option to redecorate your walls. These are fairly recent as compared to the conventional paint and they became popular quite fast. Now, almost no discussion on interior design is complete without the mention of the word ‘laminate’. They have become a vital part of the renovation process. Using laminate sheets for walls has many advantages, which has caused many homeowners to abandon their natural choice of paint and go for this refreshing option.

They are easy to install on your walls and take far less time than painting.
Laminates come in almost all colours, designs, and patterns making it easy for you to select one that best matches the rest of your home. It also comes in various rejuvenating designs and textures.
The advent of digital laminates takes this versatility to the next level.
Laminates are easy to care for and with minimal regular cleaning will maintain your walls for a long time.
They are also scratch and moisture-resistant and help maintain your indoor temperatures.
They help hide the structural and design flaws of your walls and give them an immaculate look.
Compared to paint, laminate is the costlier option. However, they are also more durable and long-lasting than paint. This will even out the costs over time.

How Merino Can Help You?

Merino Laminates is a global leader in the laminates industry, and one of the largest manufacturers of laminates and panels in the world. We provide the best solutions for all your interior needs. Along with the most modern and visually appealing designs, we also guarantee premium quality.

FAQ

Is laminate better than paint?

Laminate is better than paint as the qualities of laminate include durability, resistance to dampness, and scratch resistance. It is an excellent option for high-traffic areas because it can resist normal wear and tear. They come in a broad variety of colours, patterns, and textures including wood and stone.
What is the difference between laminate and paint?

Laminate is primarily used for covering and surfacing, while paint is used for finishing surfaces with colour and protection.

Material: Laminate is a multi-layer composite material, while paint is a liquid coating.

Durability: Laminate is generally more durable and resistant to scratches and moisture compared to paint. It is suitable for high-use areas. Paint’s durability varies depending on the type and quality of paint used.

Aesthetics: Both laminate and paint offer a wide range of design options, but the visual effects and texture of the finished surfaces are different. Laminate can replicate the appearance of various materials, while paint provides a smoother, more uniform finish.

Application: Laminate is typically applied as sheets or panels, while paint is applied as a liquid coating. Laminate cannot be directly painted over because of its smooth, non-porous surface.
Can laminate be stained or painted?

In general, laminate surfaces are not well-suited for paint because they have a smooth, non-porous finish that does not readily absorb paint. Additionally, painting laminate is possible but requires proper preparation and the use of appropriate primers and paints designed for use on laminate surfaces.