Plywood is among the most common and recognizable materials in construction. Its high strength, affordability, and resistance make it useful for all kinds of applications, from high-end furniture to invisible structure support. Here, Jaeger Lumber offers a guide for building with plywood, including its benefits and applications, to help you select the materials you need for a successful project.
What Is Plywood?
Plywood is a type of composite or engineered lumber made from thin layers of veneer, called plies. The plies are arranged such that each layer’s grain runs perpendicular to the layers above and below it. This arrangement, called cross-lamination, gives the finished product strength in all directions. The layers are glued together using a resin adhesive and then cured under pressure to ensure a strong bond.
The unique structure of plywood gives it a variety of useful features for construction. Here are just a few advantages to using plywood in your building project:
- Stability: Cross-lamination makes plywood highly resistant to warping and shrinking.
- Affordability: Because plywood utilizes low-grade wood, it’s often a cost-effective solution.
- Aesthetics: The outermost plies are typically higher grade for an attractive natural look.
- Versatility: Plywood is available in large sheets that can be cut for a variety of applications.
- Durability: Not only is plywood strong, but it can also be treated for fire and water resistance.
Choosing Plywood for Your Project
While all forms of plywood are useful for construction, they are not created equal. Plywood is available with multiple surface grades, core types, and treatment styles to suit a wide range of applications. While this variety adds versatility, it’s very important to choose the right building materials for your plans.
Plywood Grades
Plywood is graded based on its surface plie. Grade A is the highest quality, with a smooth surface and minimal defects. This grade is ideal for furniture, high-end custom bath cabinetry, and other uses where appearance is vital. Grades then descend in quality through B, C, and D. Grade D is the lowest quality. It features large knots and blemishes, making it unattractive to some but very cost-effective. It’s most suitable for structural support and other behind-the-scenes applications.
Plywood Cores
Plywood types also differ by their cores or the material situated between the external veneers. Different core materials confer different qualities. Just as it’s important to select the right grade for your purposes, you should also be careful to choose a suitable core. These are the main types:
- Veneer core: This type is made entirely using layers of veneer. Its warp resistance and excellent screw-holding capabilities make it useful for a variety of applications.
- MDF core: This type features a core made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF). The result is very smooth, uniform, and consistent, ideal for painted or finished work.
- Lumber core: This core type consists of solid wood strips. Its exceptional strength makes it an excellent choice for load-bearing applications where minimal flex is essential.
Specialty Plywood
Some suppliers carry specialty materials designed for a particular purpose. Subfloor plywood, for example, is extra-thick with tongue-and-groove edges to help you create a tight fitting. Marine plywood is made using waterproof glue for extra durability in wet environments. If your project has specific requirements, ask your supplier about specialty plywood products that may meet your needs.
Start Building with Plywood Today
Whether you’re crafting hidden structures, basement shelving, or high-end kitchen cabinetry, plywood is a versatile and reliable option. Jaeger Lumber carries a variety of plywood products, available at our New Jersey supply yard. Contact us with any questions you may have about building with plywood. Register for an account to start shopping for all your building needs.