When it comes to construction, furniture, or interior design, plywood is one of the most versatile and reliable materials used today. Understanding the different kinds of plywood is essential for choosing the right type for your specific project. Each kind of plywood varies in quality, thickness, durability, and resistance to moisture, making it suitable for different applications like roofing, flooring, cabinets, or wall paneling.
What is Plywood?
Plywood is an engineered wood made by gluing together thin layers of wood veneers under heat and pressure. The direction of the wood grain alternates with each layer, giving plywood its strength and stability. This cross-graining process prevents shrinking, warping, or cracking — making plywood a strong alternative to solid wood. The number of layers generally ranges from three to thirteen, depending on the required thickness and strength.
How Plywood is Made
The manufacturing of plywood involves several steps. First, logs (called peeler blocks) are soaked in hot water or steam to soften the wood. These are then peeled into thin sheets using a rotary lathe. The veneers are dried, glued with resin, and stacked with alternating grains. They are then pressed under high temperature and pressure to form strong sheets. Finally, the edges are trimmed, sanded, and graded for quality. The result is a durable, multi-layered board suitable for a variety of construction and furniture uses.
Different Kinds of Plywood
There are many kinds of plywood, each designed for specific applications. Let’s look at the most common types used in construction and interior works.
1. Softwood Plywood
Softwood plywood is made from trees like pine, fir, cedar, or spruce. It is mostly used in structural and industrial applications where appearance is not the main concern. Softwood plywood is strong and lightweight, making it ideal for:
- Wall and roof sheathing
- Subflooring
- Packaging boxes
- Formwork in concrete construction
2. Hardwood Plywood
Hardwood plywood is made from woods like oak, birch, maple, or mahogany. It is denser and stronger than softwood plywood and provides a fine finish. This type is commonly used in furniture and cabinetry. Key uses include:
- Kitchen cabinets
- Office furniture
- Decorative wall panels
- Doors and wardrobes
3. Marine Plywood
Marine plywood is one of the most durable kinds of plywood. It is made using waterproof adhesive and high-quality veneers to resist moisture and fungal attacks. This type is designed for wet and humid conditions and is commonly used in:
- Boat and ship construction
- Bathroom and kitchen cabinets
- Outdoor furniture
- Coastal and tropical building projects
4. Commercial Plywood (MR Grade)
Commercial plywood, also known as Moisture Resistant (MR) grade plywood, is widely used for interior furniture and paneling. It resists moisture from humidity but is not suitable for continuous wet exposure. Common uses are:
- Home and office furniture
- Partitions and ceilings
- Interior paneling
- Cupboards and wardrobes
5. BWP/BWR Plywood (Boiling Water Proof/Resistant)
BWP and BWR are waterproof grades of plywood, often used for kitchen and bathroom applications. The adhesive used is phenol-formaldehyde resin, which ensures water resistance and long life. It is best for:
- Kitchen cabinets
- Bathroom furniture
- Exterior paneling
- Roofing and outdoor structures
6. Structural Plywood
This kind of plywood is used in construction where high strength and durability are essential. Structural plywood is certified for load-bearing applications and is often used in:
- Flooring systems
- Bridges and beams
- Wall bracing
- Formwork for concrete
7. Decorative Plywood (Veneer Plywood)
Decorative plywood, also known as veneer plywood, is used mainly for aesthetics. A thin layer of fine wood like teak, rosewood, or walnut is applied on top to give a premium look. Common uses include:
- Wall paneling
- Furniture finishing
- False ceilings
- Office interiors
8. Flexible Plywood (Bendable Plywood)
Flexible plywood is designed for curved surfaces and creative furniture designs. It bends easily without breaking, making it ideal for architects and interior designers who want smooth curves. Uses include:
- Curved furniture
- Artistic installations
- Custom cabinets and counters
9. Fire Retardant Plywood
This is a special type of plywood treated with fire-resistant chemicals to slow down ignition and flame spread. It is used in public buildings, offices, and theaters where safety standards are critical. Typical uses are:
- Cinema halls and malls
- Airports and hospitals
- Kitchens and hotels
10. Shuttering Plywood (Formwork Plywood)
Shuttering plywood is a heavy-duty type used in concrete formwork. It has a smooth surface and is coated with film or phenolic resin to make it waterproof and reusable. This plywood is designed to withstand pressure during concrete pouring and is commonly used in:
- RCC slab casting
- Beams and columns
- Construction shuttering work
Grades of Plywood
Plywood is classified into grades based on surface quality and appearance. The most common grading system includes:
- A Grade: Smooth and free of knots, used for decorative purposes.
- B Grade: Slight defects allowed, suitable for furniture.
- C Grade: Visible knots and patches, used for structural or concealed applications.
- D Grade: Low quality, typically used in temporary construction or packaging.
Manufacturers often combine two grades like A-B or B-C to indicate front and back face quality.
Sizes and Thickness of Plywood Sheets
Plywood comes in standard sizes of 8 ft × 4 ft (2440 mm × 1220 mm) and thicknesses ranging from 4 mm to 25 mm. Custom sizes are also available depending on the manufacturer. The selection of thickness depends on the purpose:
- 4–6 mm: Decorative paneling
- 9–12 mm: Furniture and cabinets
- 16–19 mm: Heavy furniture and doors
- 21–25 mm: Flooring, roofing, and shuttering
Comparison Table: Common Kinds of Plywood and Their Uses
| Type of Plywood | Key Feature | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Softwood Plywood | Lightweight, affordable | Roofing, flooring, packing |
| Hardwood Plywood | Strong, fine finish | Furniture, interiors |
| Marine Plywood | Waterproof and durable | Boats, kitchens, bathrooms |
| MR Plywood | Moisture-resistant | Indoor furniture |
| BWP/BWR Plywood | Boiling waterproof | Outdoor and wet areas |
| Structural Plywood | High strength | Load-bearing structures |
| Decorative Plywood | Aesthetic finish | Wall panels, interiors |
| Flexible Plywood | Bendable | Curved furniture |
| Fire Retardant Plywood | Fire-resistant | Public buildings |
| Shuttering Plywood | High strength, reusable | Concrete formwork |
How to Choose the Right Kind of Plywood
Selecting the right kind of plywood depends on several factors such as:
- Purpose: For interiors, use MR or decorative plywood; for exteriors, use BWR or marine grade.
- Moisture Exposure: Choose waterproof grades for bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor use.
- Budget: MR grade is cost-effective; marine grade is premium.
- Finish: For visible furniture, opt for hardwood or veneer plywood.
- Strength Requirement: For construction, structural or shuttering plywood is ideal.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Plywood
Proper maintenance extends plywood life and retains its appearance.
- Avoid long-term water exposure.
- Use edge banding or laminates for protection.
- Apply wood preservatives or polish regularly.
- Store plywood in a dry and ventilated area.
FAQs About Kinds of Plywood
What are the main kinds of plywood used in construction?
The most common types are softwood, hardwood, marine, MR, BWR/BWP, and shuttering plywood.
Which plywood is best for furniture?
For furniture, hardwood or MR grade plywood is best because of its strength and smooth finish.
What is the difference between MR and BWR plywood?
MR (Moisture Resistant) is for interiors, while BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) is waterproof and suitable for outdoor use.
Is marine plywood the strongest?
Yes, marine plywood is considered the strongest and most durable due to its waterproof bonding and high-quality veneers.
Can plywood be used for exterior walls?
Yes, but it must be BWP, BWR, or marine grade plywood for weather resistance.
Conclusion
Knowing the various kinds of plywood helps you make informed choices for any project — whether it’s home furniture, interior design, or large-scale construction. From softwood and hardwood to marine and structural plywood, each type serves a unique purpose. Selecting the right grade, size, and material ensures long-lasting performance, durability, and visual appeal. The next time you plan a project, choose wisely based on where and how you intend to use it — because the right plywood can make all the difference in strength and finish.
