A Complete Guide to Plywood, Laminates, WPC & Veneers for Kerala Homes
admin September 16, 2025 0When it comes to interiors, the material you choose decides not just how your home looks but also how long it lasts. In Kerala, where the humid climate and heavy monsoons can be tough on furniture and woodwork, choosing the right plywood, laminates, WPC and veneers makes all the difference.
In this blog, let’s break down the different types of plywood used in Kerala, how plywood,laminates, and veneers are made, and their key benefits.
1. Plywood: The Foundation of Furniture
Plywood is the most widely used material in Kerala interiors, whether it’s for wardrobes, kitchen
cabinets, or beds. It’s stronger and more durable than particle board or MDF, making it ideal for
long-term use in Kerala’s climate.
How Plywood is Made
- Plywood is created by gluing together thin layers (plies) of wood veneer.
- Each layer is placed at a right angle to the previous one, giving strength and resistance to
warping. - Finally, it is pressed under heat with strong adhesives like phenol-formaldehyde or urea-
formaldehyde resin.
Types of Plywood Used in Kerala
- Commercial Plywood (MR Grade – Moisture Resistant)
Commonly used in bedrooms and living areas; budget-friendly.
Not suitable for kitchens and bathrooms as it cannot withstand long water exposure.
- BWR Plywood (Boiling Water Resistant)
A budget-friendly choice for kitchen shutters and areas exposed to moisture.
Stronger than MR grade and suitable for Kerala’s humid weather.
- Marine Plywood
Premium option, highly water-resistant.
Expensive but very durable.
- Hardwood & Gurjan Plywood
Made from hardwood species like Gurjan.
Denser, termite-resistant, and long-lasting.
Benefits of Plywood in Kerala
Stronger than MDF/Particle board.
Resistant to cracking, shrinking, and warping.
Can handle Kerala’s humidity when the right grade (BWR/Marine) is chosen.
2. Laminates: Style Meets Durability
Laminates are the outer layer that give furniture its final look and finish. They are widely used in Kerala kitchens and wardrobes because of their durability and variety of designs.
How Laminates are Made
- Laminates are made by pressing together multiple layers of kraft paper soaked in resins.
- The top layer contains a decorative print (wood grain, solid color, or pattern) and a protective overlay.
- All layers are compressed under heat to form a hard sheet.
Benefits of Laminates
- Available in hundreds of colours and textures.
- More affordable than veneers or solid wood.
- Ideal for modular kitchens, wardrobes, and study tables.
3. Veneers: The Natural Wood Touch
Veneers bring the elegance of real wood to interiors without the cost of using solid wood. They are often chosen in Kerala homes for premium furniture and statement pieces.
How Veneers are Made
- Veneers are thin slices of natural wood (0.5mm – 1mm thick).
- These slices are glued on top of plywood or MDF to give the appearance of solid wood.
- Different cutting methods (rotary, slicing, quarter-cut) produce unique grain patterns.
Benefits of Veneers
Offer the rich, authentic look of natural wood.
Can be polished to enhance the grain and shine.
More eco-friendly than using solid wood.
Ideal for luxury interiors, living rooms, and statement furniture.
Plywood vs. Laminates vs. Veneers – Quick Comparison
| Feature | Plywood | Laminates | Veneers |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Engineered wood base | Decorative sheet | Thin slice of natural wood |
| Main Use | Structural strength | Outer finish, style | Premium wood look |
| Durability | High (if BWR/Marine) | High (scratch & water resistant) | Moderate (needs polishing) |
| Cost | Medium to High | Affordable | Premium |
| Best For | Cabinets, beds, storage | Kitchens, wardrobes, study | Living rooms, luxury pieces |
Final Thoughts
For interiors in Kerala:
- Use BWR or calibrated, underwent quad press technology Marine Plywood as the base for durability.
- Choose Laminates for everyday functional furniture and kitchens.
- Add Veneers for elegance in living spaces and statement furniture.
At the end of the day, a balance of strength (plywood), style (laminates), and luxury (veneers) creates interiors that not only look beautiful but also withstand Kerala’s climate.
When you work with a reputed firm like Den Design, you can be sure that the right materials are used in the right places, ensuring your home is both stunning and long-lasting.