|
Which Plywood Grade Should You Use?
Plywood Grade - What does this tell you?
There are two plywood grades, namely exterior and interior. An exterior plywood grade board is manufactured using waterproof glue or can even be resin bonded. These are designed for use in exposed places where water, humidity and dampness prevail.
On the other hand, interior plywood grade boards, do not use waterproof glue, but one that can also resist moisture, albeit to a much lesser degree. Some manufacturers use an intermediate glue (IMG), that is not only resistant to moisture but also to bacteria and mold. But it is still an interior plywood grade board and is unfit for use outdoors. The tables below show how each plywood grade is sub divided into various categories that reflect its use and cost.
| Interior Grade |
Face |
Back |
Inner Plies |
Uses |
| A-A |
A |
A |
D |
Both faces are 'Finish Grade' Used for Cabinet Doors, Domestic Furniture etc. |
| A-B |
A |
B |
D |
As for A-A but only face side is finished grade, back face is smooth with no voids. |
| A-D |
A |
D |
D |
Finish grade face for panelling, built in furniture |
| B-D |
B |
D |
D |
Utility grade. Only one paintable side |
| C-D |
C |
D |
D |
Sheathing and structural uses such as sub floors and shuttering. |
| Underlay |
C Plugged |
D |
C, D |
Used as underlay for tile and carpets where sub floor is uneven. |
| Exterior Grade |
Face |
Back |
Inner Plies |
Uses |
| A-A |
A |
A |
C |
Outside use where both sides can be finished for appearance purposes. |
| A-B |
A |
B |
C |
As for A-A but with only one face of 'Finish Grade' |
| A-C |
A |
C |
C |
Soffits and Facias. Also used as a base for coatings. |
| B-C |
B |
C |
C |
Used for general building and landscape purposes, such as shuttering and fences. Also used as a base for coatings |
C-C
Plugged |
C
Plugged |
C |
C |
Backing for tiles and wall coverings and high performance coatings |
| C-C |
C |
C |
C |
Shuttering and rough building work.
With great exposure to the weather. (Unsanded) |
Now You Know Which Plywood Grade is Right For You!
Talk to Gillsons Timber a company you can trust.
Their experience and professionalism is second to none.
|
|
