Acrylic vs Laminate
Acrylic vs Laminate Shutters: Which Finish to Pick
Shutters are 60% of what you see and 80% of the finish cost. Acrylic delivers a mirror-gloss premium look; laminate is the workhorse — durable, scratch-tolerant and easy to replace. Here's how they actually compare.
| Attribute | Acrylic | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Gloss level | Mirror gloss (95+ GU) — reflects like glass | Matte to high-gloss (40–80 GU) depending on grade |
| Scratch resistance | Average — fine scratches show on gloss | Excellent — wear layer rated for high-traffic use |
| Heat tolerance | Good up to 70°C — keep 18" clear of hob | Excellent — handles cooking heat directly |
| Price (per sq ft) | ₹950–1,450 (1mm) | ₹220–650 (0.8–1mm) |
| Repair on damage | Replace entire shutter | Replace single shutter — match shade easily |
| Colour stability (5 yr) | Excellent — UV-stable | Good — premium grades hold colour |
Our take
Verdict
Pick acrylic for visible runs in an open kitchen where the finish is the statement. Pick laminate for tall pantry units, utility kitchens, and homes with heavy daily use where scratch-tolerance matters more than gloss.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
No. 1mm acrylic is a solid acrylic sheet bonded to HDHMR, with a mirror finish. High-gloss laminate is a 0.8–1mm laminate with a glossy top layer — significantly less reflective and roughly one-third the cost.