Your Bathroom Finishes Guide: PVC, Melamine, Laminate, Veneer, Painted, and Stained

Your Bathroom Finishes Guide: Choosing the Right Look for Your Vanity

When planning a bathroom renovation, choosing the right vanity finish is just as important as selecting the size or style. The finish determines not only the look of your vanity but also its durability, maintenance needs, and how it performs in a moisture-rich environment.

At Montecana Vanities, we offer a variety of high-quality finishes, each with unique benefits. Here’s your complete guide to the pros and cons of PVC, melamine, laminate, veneer, painted, and stained finishes—to help you make the best choice for your space.

1. PVC Finish

A durable and water-resistant option, PVC is perfect for high-moisture bathrooms. It’s low-maintenance, affordable, and available in a wide range of modern colors and textures.

Pros:

• Highly water-resistant, ideal for bathrooms.

• Easy to clean—just a simple wipe-down.

• Affordable and available in a wide range of colors and textures.

• Scratch and impact-resistant for daily use.

Cons:

• Limited in achieving a truly “natural wood” feel.

• May show seams at the edges if not well-crafted.

✅ Best for homeowners who want durability, low maintenance, and a modern look.

2. Melamine Finish

A cost-effective finish with a clean, sleek appearance. Melamine resists scratches and stains but is less resistant to heavy water exposure compared to PVC.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly while offering a sleek, consistent appearance.

• Resists scratches, stains, and moisture.

• Wide selection of solid colors and woodgrain patterns.

Cons:

• Edges can chip if exposed to heavy wear.

• Less resistant to prolonged water exposure compared to PVC.

✅ Best for those seeking a cost-effective finish that balances style and performance.

3. Laminate Finish

A versatile finish, laminate offers endless colors and patterns, including wood-look styles. It’s easy to clean but can peel at the edges if exposed to excess water.

Pros:

• Versatile, with endless color and pattern options (including realistic wood textures).

• Resistant to stains and fading.

• Smooth and consistent surface finish.

Cons:

• Prone to peeling if water seeps into edges.

• Can scratch with sharp objects.

✅ Best for homeowners who want bold design flexibility at a reasonable price.

4. Veneer Finish

Made from thin slices of real wood, veneer provides an authentic natural look and warmth. It’s elegant and can be refinished but requires proper sealing against humidity.

Pros:

• Made from thin layers of real wood, giving an authentic natural look.

• Warm, organic feel that elevates bathroom design.

• Can be refinished if scratched or worn.

Cons:

• Requires careful sealing to resist bathroom humidity.

• More expensive than melamine or laminate.

✅ Best for those who want the richness of real wood with modern cabinetry construction.

5. Painted Finish

A customizable choice with unlimited color options for a polished, modern or classic look. It’s stylish and versatile but can chip, scratch, or show fingerprints over time.

Pros:

• Endless color choices—great for customization.

• Smooth, polished look that works with both modern and traditional designs.

• Can be refreshed or repainted over time.

Cons:

• Can chip or crack if exposed to heavy use or humidity.

• Shows fingerprints and smudges more easily, especially in darker colors.

✅ Best for homeowners who want a highly customizable finish that can match any style.

6. Stained Finish

Designed to enhance natural wood grain, stained finishes offer timeless warmth and texture. They age beautifully but need more upkeep to maintain their richness.

Pros:

• Enhances the natural grain of wood, highlighting texture and depth.

• Timeless and classic look that never goes out of style.

• Available in light, medium, and dark tones to suit any design.

Cons:

• More susceptible to scratches and wear over time.

• Requires regular care to maintain its appearance.

✅ Best for those who appreciate natural wood aesthetics and a warm, organic look.

Final Thoughts: Which Finish Is Right for You?

Your vanity finish plays a huge role in your bathroom’s style, durability, and daily function.

• Choose PVC or melamine for low-maintenance durability.

• Go with laminate for bold patterns and design flexibility.

• Opt for veneer, painted, or stained if you want natural beauty and customization.

At Montecana Vanities, we offer both in-stock and custom bathroom vanities in a range of finishes—so you can find the perfect balance of style, function, and longevity for your home.

Visit Our Coquitlam Showroom

Still not sure which finish is right for your vanity? Come see the difference in person. Our Coquitlam showroom features a variety of bathroom vanity finishes you can touch, compare, and experience firsthand.