2 Important Factors To Consider When Choosing Plywood For Any Home Project

Construction & Contractors Blog

If you're not experienced in home renovation or any other type of construction project, you may assume that all plywood is the same since it can often look the same. In truth however, there are different grades and other characteristics when it comes to plywood that should help you to determine the right choice for the job at hand. If you don't understand these characteristics and how plywood is sold, you may very well choose the wrong type that could ruin your entire project. Note the following.

Grades of Plywood

When shopping for plywood you may note that it has different grades, from A to D. As with grades in school, grade A is typically considered the "best" plywood, as this grade will have fewer visual defects, including knots and bumps. Grade A plywood is used for when it will be visible, such as when you're constructing walls. Grade D plywood will have the most knots and bumps and other defects, with grades B and C falling between these two grades. Grade D plywood is used for when the surface will not be seen, such as when constructing a subfloor.

Grade A plywood is the most expensive, but one way to save money is to choose a mixture of grades; grade A may be on one side of the plywood with the opposite side rated grade D. You can use this for when just one side of the plywood will be showing, such as for interior walls or ceilings or for when finishing a basement.

Adhesives

Plywood is not actually solid wood but is a composite of pieces that are mixed together with a type of adhesive. These adhesives will vary according to the use of the plywood. For interior use, the adhesive will not be very moisture-resistant as it's not expected that it will come into contact with high levels of humidity. However, for areas where there will be moisture such as in a basement, you'll want to choose an adhesive that is meant for such areas. This will be an adhesive that won't actually absorb the moisture and humidity. Structural plywood will have the strongest adhesive because it will need to hold up the weight of a home or other structure.

When shopping for plywood, be sure you note the use for which it's designated, as this will determine the type of adhesive that's used and, in turn, its overall strength. This will also ensure that plywood will look its best for your project. For more information, contact professionals such as those found at F.A. Mitchell & Company Pty Ltd.

4 May 2015