Plywood is an engineered wood product made from multiple layers of wood veneer. This engineered wood is made by gluing sheets of wood together. This process makes the wood strong and versatile enough for different applications.
This article defines plywood and explores its various characteristics and uses.
Unlike solid wood, which comes directly from trees, plywood is made by stacking thin layers of wood veneer on each other. These layers are then glued together under pressure.
The grain of each layer runs in opposite directions, turned up to 90 degrees away from the one below it. Turning the grain direction makes the plywood stronger, more stable, and less likely to warp, split, or crack.
Plywood has at least three layers—the more layers the plywood has, the thicker and more expensive it is. On the bright side, since plywood is an engineered wood product, it is more affordable than its counterparts.
| Note: Plywood usually has an odd number of layers, with the exterior grain running the same direction. This makes the sheet both structurally and aesthetically symmetrical. |
What is Plywood Made of?
1. Softwoods
Softwood plywoods are commonly derived from coniferous trees like cedar, pine, fir, redwood, or spruce. This plywood type is usually used for projects where strength is more important than appearance.
Examples of projects where softwood plywood is used are flooring, roofing, and sheathing.
2. Hardwoods
Hardwood plywoods are usually obtained from deciduous trees like oak, maple, birch, or ash. They are usually more durable and better-looking than their softwood counterparts.
Hardwoods are ideal for projects where the wood will be visible.
3. Composite Materials
Plywood can also be made from other materials, such as solid lumbar pieces, MDF (medium-density fibreboard), particle board, and more.
Composite materials are usually used for projects that need thick sheets.
Plywood stands out amongst woodworking materials because it is highly versatile. This versatility works in various ways.
- It is strong and affordable but also lightweight. This makes it a budget-friendly alternative to solid wood in some cases.
- It can resist warping and cracking. This prolongs the lifespan of your flooring, furniture, and other home improvement projects.
- Furthermore, plywood can be finished in different styles.
To top it off, since plywood uses wood more efficiently, it is an eco-friendly option. If you want to know more about the benefits of plywood, check out our guide on its advantages and disadvantages.
Characteristics of Plywood
Is Plywood Stronger Than Wood?
Depending on how it’s used, plywood can be stronger than wood. Plywood gets its strength and durability from the way it’s made. It is made by gluing multiple layers of wood veneer with the grain going in different directions together. This makes it more stable and resistant to cracking or warping than a single piece of wood.
How Long Will Plywood Last?
Plywood can last up to 35 years if you take good care of it. If you maintain and protect it from moisture, high-quality plywood can last for decades. This makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Is Plywood Waterproof?
Plywood is normally not waterproof, but some types can withstand moisture and the elements. These types include marine and exterior types. However, regular plywood is not waterproof and can absorb moisture, swell, or take damage if exposed to too much moisture.
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What to Read Next:
- What is Plywood Used For?
- 5 Types of Plywood for DIY Projects
- How to Buy Plywood as Cheap as Possible
Main Photo Credit: Piotr / Adobe Stock Free / License
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