Title: Is Plywood good for furniture?
1Is Plywood a good choice for furniture? Plywood
has been our go-to option for fixed furniture for
decades now. Due to its popularity, many
homeowners are currently seeking plywood as a
substitute to solid wooden furniture. Unlike any
other building material, plywood is one
affordable option that is not only versatile but
also holds the beauty of wood. Plywood wholesale
dealers made available softwood, hardwood and
various finishes, these materials can be used for
roofing, flooring, furniture, wardrobes and
cabinets, wall sheathing and even some DIY
projects. Plywood is an engineered wood made by
glueing together thin veneer sheets with a resin
under high pressure. Thus, creating a thick,
strong and flexible flat sheet. It is usually
mostly preferred as it is cheaper than wood and
doesnt get warped or shrink in the long
run. Best types of plywood for interiors There
are over 18 types of plywood distinguished based
on the type of wood used, application and
process. However, let us concentrate on the three
basic types MR ply, BWR/BWP ply and Marine
ply. Moisture Resistant Plywood Also known as
commercial ply by local vendors, is used in
interiors extensively. From furniture to
cabinets, it has good resistance to moisture in
damp and humid conditions, making it a favorite
material in tropical areas. However, this is not
waterproof. Boiling Water Resistant and Boiling
Water Proof Ply It is most favoured for interior
and exteriors as well. The resistance to water
makes it suitable for all weather conditions and
is also used in the bathrooms and kitchens where
exposure to water is high. It is also used for
wall cladding on the exteriors, staircases and
more due to its waterproof nature. Marine
Ply Marine ply is perfect for rooms exposed to
water like kitchens and bathrooms It is often
associated with BWR and BWP ply by carpenters.
But the similarities are minimum. The material
is of superior quality and is waterproof to a
great extent. Thus, its applications are found
mainly in boat building and industries where
exposure to water is high. So, the myth that
marine ply is the best material for kitchens is
pointless unless youre planning to keep your
kitchen immersed in water all the time.
2- Thickness and plywood grade
- Thickness
- Ply means layer. The thickness of the sheet is
determined by the ply. More ply creates a thicker
and stronger board. The minimum number of plies
are 3-ply and can go up to 5 or more. - Plywood with lesser number plies are thinner and
weaker even if theyre of the same thickness. - 3-ply These sheets are 2 to 3 mm thick and is
the most common type of plywood for home
interiors. - 5-ply This plywood is the most versatile option
that is 4 mm thick. This type of plywood works
great for indoor and outdoor furniture and
decorative boards. - Multi-ply This plywood has 7 or more layers.
Its strong and durable enough for permanent
structures like roofing. - Grade
- Plywood often comes with grades that can
determine the quality and appearance of it. - A-grade Ideal for furniture pieces and cabinets,
A-grade plywood has a smooth and sanded surface
with minor defects. - B-grade This grade of plywood is similar to A
grade with a few knots however, the defects can
go upto 1 inch across. - C-grade This grade is unsanded with minor knots
and defects like discolouration. They are ideal
for structures where appearance is not important. - D-grade Similar to C-grade, D-grade plywood is
unsanded and has snags that have not been
repaired. - Common plywood sheet sizes
- Buying these wood veneer sheets are comparatively
easy. When you purchase a plywood board you know
exactly what size youre getting because they are
available in standard measurements. Moreover,
they are pre-cut to reduce waste. The most
popular and common dimensions are 4 x 8 ft.
Another popular option is 5 x 5 ft. When it comes
to thickness, plywood comes in 1/2 inches.
However you can get a variety that ranges of
1/8th and 3/4th inches. - Usage Cost
- Plywood finds application in many interior
elements from furniture and storage to the
walls, floors and ceilings. The main uses have
so far been to make furniture, modular kitchen
cabinets and wardrobes. However, for decorative
purposes, plywood can be used as wall cladding,
false ceiling and wooden flooring, which can all
give your home a cosy feeling.
3The cost varies based on different aspects from
the type of plywood to the thickness and
quality. You might want to consider all this
before purchasing the same. Pros
Cons Advantages
- Convenience Plywood can be used easily without
worrying about damage to the plank while using
nails and screws. It is also available in various
sizes favourable in making furniture. - Durability Homeowners prefer this material for
its sturdy nature, second only to wood. Also, it
doesnt warp or shrink in varying temperatures
making it ideal for households. - Economical It is cheaper than wood, making it a
lucrative option to invest in. The quality is
also superior for the price paid. - Flexible The material is available in varied
sizes, densities and quality for varying
applications. Thus, whether cabinets and
furniture or thin wall panels, this is your best
bet. - Eco-friendly Plywood ensures there is minimal
wastage and can also be recycled. Thus, it is
eco-friendly as well.
Disadvantages
- Shape You cant carve plywood like wood to give
furniture or storage the classy grooves. - Delicate material While using this material one
needs to be careful as it can chip easily and
splinters fly if precaution is not taken. Thus,
this veneer sheet needs to be sealed careful
along the edges too. - Water damage Exposure to water can damage MR ply
as it is not waterproof. Thus restricting its
usage to places away from water. - Assessing the quality It is difficult to assess
the quality of this material by just looking at
it. Thus, it is necessary to buy from trusted
sources only. - Usage Unlike wood, this material cant be used
as it is. It needs add-ons like laminates, paint
or polish to give it a better look.