Laminate vs Acrylic vs PU vs Ducco Finish | Best Material for Wardrobe & Modular Kitchen – Full Comparison (2025)
Choosing the right finish for wardrobes and modular kitchens is key to achieving the perfect look, durability, and value for money. Laminate, Acrylic, PU (Polyurethane), and Ducco are the most popular options, but each has its own pros, cons, cost, and ideal use cases.
1. Laminate Finish
A synthetic, multi-layered material made by pressing decorative paper and plastic resin. Available in both matt and glossy finishes.
₹80–₹150 /sqft (depends on texture and brand)
Laminate sheets + plywood/MDF + labor
Popular Brands:
Greenlam
CenturyLaminates
Merino
Sunmica
Best For:
Budget wardrobes
Modular kitchens in rental or budget homes
Pros:
Budget-friendly
Wide range of colors and textures
Scratch and moisture resistant
Easy to clean
Low maintenance
Cons:
Looks less premium than acrylic or PU
Edges can peel over time
Not very heat-resistant
2. Acrylic Finish
A high-gloss, mirror-like surface made of acrylic sheets pasted on MDF or HDF boards.
₹200–₹350 /sqft (finished)
Acrylic sheets + HDF/MDF base + pasting + labor
Popular Brands:
REHAU
E3
Advance
Royale Touche
Best For:
High-end modular kitchens
Contemporary wardrobes
Pros:
Premium glossy look
UV, moisture, and chemical resistant
Color stays vibrant over time
Easy to clean
Cons:
Fingerprints and smudges visible
Can be costly
Slightly prone to scratches
Limited matte options
3. PU (Polyurethane) Paint Finish
A painted finish applied over MDF surface using multiple coats and polishing, available in both matt and gloss.
Pros:
Smooth, seamless, luxurious finish
Available in any custom color
Highly durable when applied properly
Better than acrylic in scratch resistance
Cons:
Expensive
Requires expert application
Can chip if hit hard
Time-consuming process
Cost (2025):
₹300–₹450/sqft (depending on gloss and brand)
PU paint + MDF surface + multiple coats + polishing + skilled labor
Popular Brands:
ICA PU
Asian Paints
Nerolac PU
MRF PU
Best For:
Premium modular kitchens and wardrobes
Designer interiors
4. Ducco Paint Finish
Automotive-style paint finish (used on cars) applied over MDF with spray technique. Mostly available in matt and semi-gloss.
Pros:
Smooth painted finish
Custom color options
Gives soft luxury look
Easy to touch-up
Cons:
Less durable than PU
Chips and scratches easily
Not ideal for heavy use areas
Needs skilled labor
Cost (2025):
₹250–₹400/sqft
Duco paint + MDF base + spray coating + labor
Popular Brands:
Asian Paints
Nerolac
Duco (DuPont)
Best For:
Decorative wardrobes
Low-traffic modular cabinets
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Using Duco in high-use kitchen areas (it chips easily)
Choosing glossy acrylic for lower kitchen cabinets (prone to scratches and fingerprints)
Ignoring edge banding in laminates (can peel off)
Going for PU/Duco without proper skilled labor
Not checking brand quality or thickness of materials
Conclusion:
Budget Option: Go for laminates (textured or high gloss)
Stylish Yet Durable: Use acrylic for upper kitchen shutters and laminate for base units
Luxury Look & Durability: Go for PU finish
Designer Feel with Custom Colors: Duco is great, but use carefully