Laminate, Veneer, or Solid Wood? What’s Best for Your Project

Whether you're planning a full fit-out or tackling a DIY feature wall, choosing the right wall panelling material makes a real difference. At Feature Panel, we offer a carefully curated selection of laminate, veneer, and solid wood panels—each with its strengths. But if you’re looking for something versatile, cost-effective, and easy to maintain, our T&G laminate range is a great place to start.

Let’s take a closer look at how each material compares.

A Quick Overview: What’s the Difference?

Laminate PanelsOur T&G laminate panels feature a durable decorative surface bonded to finger-jointed pine wood. They offer the look of real timber but are more resistant to moisture and everyday wear. Because they come pre-finished, there’s no need for sanding, staining, or sealing—just install and go.

For instance, the Batten 10 Black Walnut panel provides a sleek, narrow ridge design ideal for contemporary spaces. Similarly, the Arch 25 Black Walnut offers a distinctive arched profile that adds a unique touch to any room.

Veneer PanelsVeneer panels are made by bonding a thin layer of real wood to a substrate. The result is a natural finish with beautiful texture and grain. Veneer panels offer an authentic look while being more cost-effective than solid timber.

Veneers also use far less wood than solid panels. Thanks to their construction, veneer panels are also less prone to warping or splitting, making them ideal for New Zealand’s changing climates.

Our TrueTech Batten 20 is made from an engineered Oak veneer, which showcases the authentic look of timber with the added benefit of a consistent finish. For those seeking a more pronounced wood grain, the Ripple 150 Oak offers a dynamic scalloped pattern that brings depth and more texture to your walls. 

Solid Wood PanelsWhile veneer and laminate panels offer practicality and cost savings, solid timber panels have their own unique advantages:

1. Authenticity and Character
   Solid timber offers unmatched natural beauty, depth, and warmth. Each piece has its own grain pattern, texture, and character, creating truly one-of-a-kind surfaces that age gracefully over time.

2. Longevity and Durability
   Solid wood is incredibly strong and durable. Solid timber panels can last for generations, making them an ideal choice for commercial settings, premium builds and high-traffic areas.

3. Refinishing and Repairs
   Unlike veneer or laminate, solid timber can be sanded back and refinished multiple times. This makes repairing scratches, dents, or wear easy, extending the life of your panels. 

4. Strength and Structural Qualities
   Solid timber panels can add not just surface beauty but also structural strength, making them suitable for applications like furniture, benchtops, or cabinetry where robustness matters.

5. Premium Appeal
   Solid timber instantly signals quality and craftsmanship. For projects where luxury, tradition, or a high-end aesthetic is the goal, solid wood panels often make a lasting impression.
   

The Flow 30 Solid Oak panel combines a 5mm solid oak face with a 16mm MDF core, delivering both strength and elegance. Another excellent choice is the TrueCraft Batten 35 Solid Oak Flex, which offers flexibility for curved installations without compromising on the natural beauty of solid oak.

Laminate vs. Veneer vs. Solid Wood

Here’s a side-by-side look at how these three materials compare:

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, it all comes down to your priorities:

– If you're after value, ease, and durability, our T&G laminate panels are a practical, polished choice.

– If you’re leaning toward natural texture or luxury detailing, veneer or solid wood may suit better.

You can browse our full range here.

Still unsure? Order a sample to compare materials in person and feel the difference for yourself. We’re always happy to help you find the best fit for your space.