Plywood

Definition

Plywood is a flat panel made up of a number of thin sheets (veneers) of wood. The grain direction of each ply, or layer, is at right angles to the one adjacent to it. The veneer sheets are united under pressure by a bonding agent. Interior-grade plywood is suitable for indoor use, while exterior-grade plywood uses a weather-resistant adhesive.

Purpose

Plywood is used in construction and woodworking for its strength, stability, and versatility. The cross-laminated structure provides enhanced dimensional stability and resistance to warping, making it ideal for a variety of structural and decorative applications.

Examples of Use

• Wall Sheathing: Providing structural support and a base for exterior siding or interior drywall.
• Roof Sheathing: Used under roofing materials to add strength and provide a base for shingles or tiles.
• Subflooring: Serving as a stable base for flooring materials in residential and commercial buildings.
• Furniture: Used in the construction of cabinets, shelves, and other furniture items.
• Formwork: Creating molds for concrete pouring in construction projects.

Related Terms

• Veneer: Thin layers of wood used in the construction of plywood.
• OSB (Oriented Strand Board): An engineered wood panel made from compressed wood strands and adhesives, often used as an alternative to plywood.
• Laminated Wood: Wood products made by bonding layers of wood together, similar to plywood but often using thicker layers.

Notes

• Grades: Plywood is available in various grades, with higher grades offering smoother surfaces and fewer defects. Common grades include A, B, C, and D, with A being the highest quality.
• Types: Interior-grade plywood is intended for indoor use and is not moisture-resistant. Exterior-grade plywood uses waterproof adhesive and is designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
• Strength: The cross-grain structure of plywood enhances its strength and resistance to splitting and warping compared to solid wood.