--- title: "Laminate vs Wood Kitchen Cabinets: What is the difference?" description: Do you have laminate kitchen cabinets? Find out how they can be painted and their differences from wood here. image: https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hubfs/pexels-max-vakhtbovych-7214338.jpg --- [Skip to main content](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/laminate-vs-wood-cabinets#maincontent) [ «  Learning Center ](https://brushandrollpainting.com/learning-center) # Laminate vs Wood Kitchen Cabinets: What is the difference? March 13th, 2023 1 min read By [Kaylea Kuhlman](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager) ![Gray toned kitchen cabinets with while backspash and a stainless steel oven. ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/pexels-max-vakhtbovych-7214338.jpg?width=6202&height=4912&name=pexels-max-vakhtbovych-7214338.jpg) Laminate cabinets have their benefits. They are smooth and easy to clean, but their appearance might not fit your style. For over 25 years, [Brush & Roll Painting](mailto:admin@brushandrollpainting.com) has been refinishing cabinets in Omaha, NE from all types of wood. Our work is made to last over 10 years with a strong protectant coat, the right prep work, and high-quality materials.  In this article, we will tell you all about laminate vs. wood. By reading this article you will be able to confidently decide if you should have your laminate painted. ## Laminate vs. Wood  Overall, laminate is not much different from wood. Laminate [“is made of a synthetic material, usually plastic, used to create a thin exterior layer on furniture or other surfaces.” ](https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/interior-exterior-paints-stains/how-to-advice/interiors/painting-laminate-furniture#:~:text=Can%20you%20paint%20laminate%3F,coffee%20tables%2C%20bookshelves%20and%20dressers.) In many kitchens, laminate can be found on the boxes of cabinets and the cabinet doors are solid wood. Cabinet boxes do not get as much wear and tear on them as the doors do, so they do not need as many inches of wood, to begin with. Laminate is more cost-effective to put on cabinet boxes than wood. Laminate also does not damage from moisture like wood does, so it does not require as many repairs if that is an issue.  ## Refinishing Laminate vs. Wood Refinishing laminate will be much more affordable than replacing it completely with solid wood. Laminate is smooth and durable on its own without a finish, but can be made just as durable as wood cabinets with a finish. Painting laminate vs. wood is the same process. A good cabinet refinishing process includes prep work and high-quality products. Everything needs to be sanded before refinishing, laminate needs to be sanded in order to eliminate its glossy top layer so the paint can stick to it. Laminate is a fragile material, so while sanding it is essential not to go overboard. ## Should you refinish the laminate in your house? Properly refinishing your laminate will prolong the life of the furniture or cabinets which will add value to you and your home.  If you are ready to refinish your laminate, we can help. [Schedule an estimate](https://brushandrollpainting.com/schedule-an-estimate/) on our website or call us at (402) 932-9764. We stand behind our work with a 9-year warranty that covers any natural wear and tear imperfections.  To learn more about refinishing laminate cabinets, discover the [techniques to having the paint look its best on this type of material.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/techniques-for-repainting-laminate-cabinets-in-omaha-ne) [ Kaylea Kuhlman ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager) Kaylea is the Content Manager at Brush & Roll Painting, where she leads the company’s marketing strategy, content creation, and brand messaging. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a degree in Journalism and Media Communications and a minor in Marketing, combining strong writing skills with a clear understanding of how to connect with homeowners. Since joining Brush & Roll Painting at the end of 2022, Kaylea has played a key role in shaping how the company communicates with its customers. She works closely with the team to turn real, on-the-job experience into helpful, easy-to-understand content that answers the questions homeowners are already asking. Her approach focuses on clarity, honesty, and making sure people feel confident before starting a painting project. Kaylea’s work helps bridge the gap between technical painting knowledge and everyday decision-making. Whether it’s explaining the difference between paint finishes, helping homeowners choose the right cabinet color, or breaking down what to expect from a professional painting process, her goal is always the same: to make the process feel simple and stress-free. Topics Kaylea Covers: Kaylea writes and creates content across all areas of residential painting, including: -Interior painting (walls, ceilings, trim, and woodwork) -Exterior painting and maintenance -Cabinet painting and refinishing -Deck staining and wood care -Paint colors, finishes, and design decisions -What to expect when hiring a professional painter -Common homeowner questions, concerns, and mistakes to avoid Her content is designed to give homeowners clear answers, set realistic expectations, and help them make confident decisions about their home. 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