When selecting plywood for a project, understanding its properties and different types is key to ensuring you choose the best material for your needs. Whether you're working on a structural job, furniture, or a decorative feature, choosing the right plywood will determine the strength, longevity, and finish of your project.

Selecting the Right Plywood Sheeting for the Job

The selection process for plywood begins with understanding its intended use. For heavy-duty structural applications, like roofing or flooring, you’ll need thicker, high-grade structural plywood. On the other hand, decorative finishes or interior furniture may require thinner, smoother non-structural plywood sheets.

It’s also important to consider plywood grade. Higher grades (A or B) have fewer defects and are suitable for projects requiring a high-quality finish, while lower grades (C or D) may have visible knots or imperfections, but can still perform well in non-visible structural applications.

Another factor to consider is the bonding type, which affects the plywood's resistance to moisture. For outdoor projects, you'll need exterior-grade plywood, which uses water-resistant adhesives. Interior-grade plywood, on the other hand, is better suited for dry environments where moisture exposure is minimal.

The Pros & Cons of Plywood for Projects

Plywood has become a go-to material for a wide range of projects due to its versatility and strength. It offers several advantages, such as being more affordable than solid wood and providing excellent strength thanks to its multi-layered construction. Its layered design also allows it to be flexible and adaptable to curved surfaces, making it a favourite for creative applications.

However, plywood also has its drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is its sensitivity to moisture. While exterior-grade plywood or marine plywood is moisture-resistant, regular plywood can warp or deteriorate if exposed to high humidity or water over time. Additionally, lower-grade plywood may require extra finishing work to smooth out imperfections. It’s also heavier than some other building materials, which can make handling and installation more challenging.

Understanding the Different Types of Plywood

There are several types of plywood available, each suited to different applications. Softwood plywood, typically made from species like pine or fir, is often used in structural applications. It’s strong and durable, making it ideal for roofing, subfloors, and walls. Softwood plywood is also commonly machine-graded to ensure consistency and reliability.

Hardwood plywood, on the other hand, is made from species like birch or maple. It’s known for its smooth finish, making it a popular choice for furniture making, cabinetry, and other decorative purposes.

Marine plywood, designed to be resistant to dampness, is an essential choice for projects where the material will be exposed to moisture or water, such as boats, outdoor furniture, or structures near lakes and oceans. Structural plywood is specifically engineered for load-bearing applications, ensuring the necessary strength and support for heavy-duty projects.

The choice between softwood, hardwood, marine, and structural plywood will depend on the specific demands of your project. For a wide selection of plywood suitable for different applications, exploreCanterbury Timber's range.

Which Wood You Rather?

Choosing the right plywood for your project is critical to ensuring it meets your expectations in terms of strength, durability, and finish. By understanding the different types of plywood, their grades, and where they are best used, you can make an informed decision that will help your project retain stability and appearance.

AtCanterbury Timber, we stock a comprehensive range of plywood sheeting suitable for all applications, from structural work to decorative finishes, and are happy to cut & mill to your specifications to save you time.

Our knowledgeable team is ready to offer expert advice on selecting the right plywood for your project. Visit ourContact Us page to get in touch with one of our specialists today.

FAQs

What Is the Best Type of Plywood for Outdoor Use?

The best type of plywood for outdoor use is marine plywood. It’s specifically designed to resist moisture and is ideal for projects that are exposed to the elements, such as boats, outdoor furniture, and decking. If marine plywood is not required, exterior-grade plywood also offers good moisture resistance for general outdoor projects.

How Can I Tell the Quality of Plywood?

Plywood quality is determined by its grade, which ranges from A to D. A-grade plywood has a smooth, defect-free surface, making it ideal for projects where appearance matters. Lower-grade plywood may have visible knots and imperfections, which are more suitable for structural use where the finish isn’t as important. Always inspect the layering of the plywood for evenness and ensure the bonding between the layers is secure.

Is Marine Plywood Necessary for All Outdoor Projects?

Marine plywood is not necessary for all outdoor projects but is highly recommended for areas that will be exposed to water or high humidity. For general outdoor projects like fences or sheds, exterior-grade plywood is usually sufficient as it is designed to withstand moderate moisture exposure.

What’s the Difference Between Softwood and Hardwood Plywood?

Softwood plywood is typically made from coniferous trees like pine or fir and is used in structural applications due to its strength. Hardwood plywood, made from deciduous trees like birch or maple, has a smoother surface and is preferred for decorative uses such as furniture and cabinetry.

How Does Moisture Affect Plywood?

Moisture can cause plywood to warp, swell, or delaminate, particularly if it’s not designed for outdoor use. For projects where moisture exposure is a concern, choosing marine or exterior-grade plywood is essential to ensure the longevity and stability of the material.