Plywood is a material that has become widely used in many areas of life over the years. This is due to the fact that it has so many positive attributes and is incredibly adaptable. This article will look at what exactly this material is made from, the different types of plywood, and a few of its most common applications. Interested? Read on to learn more.

What is Plywood & How is it Made?

First, looking at what exactly plywood is and how it is made is helpful. Plywood is an engineered timber product that is made from multiple layers of thin sheets of wood veneers. These layers (or plies) are then glued together at high temperatures under pressure to create a strong bond. This results in a material that is strong and stable yet also lightweight and affordable compared to other timber products.

Different Types of Plywood

While plywood will always refer to multiple layers of wood veneer glued together, you should know that a few different types of plywood are available. Softwood is the most common type, which is a type of plywood made from softwoods like pine and redwood. As you might imagine, hardwood is also common and formed from stronger woods, such as oak and walnut. Hardwood plywoods will be stronger and more resistant to scratches and often has extra layers. These are the most common forms, but you can also find specific plywood, such as outbuilding plywood, which would have moisture-resistant properties.

Most Common Uses of Plywood

Exploring the most common applications of plywood is interesting as it is such a versatile and economical building material. Here are a few of the most common uses.

One of the most common uses for plywood is furniture as a strong yet good-looking material. Hardwood plywood can be useful for a range of items, including desks, drawers, cabinets, and wardrobes. Typically, birch plywood is used as a durable material.

Plywood is also commonly used for flooring and roofing. Plywood sheathing (applying a panel of plywood for extra structural integrity) is used for permanent fixtures that need structurally sound designs, which provides strong protection from wear and tear on the flooring and the elements on the roof. This also makes it a popular choice for decking in the garden.

For similar reasons, plywood is a common building material for both interior and exterior walls. Plywood can be used to add structural integrity to the walls, but it can also be stained to provide a natural-looking finish for the interior of the house.

Plywood is an incredible engineered timber project that is widely used in many different projects. This is due to the material’s durability, strength, weight, and affordability. The possibilities are endless with plywood, so it is easy to see why it is such a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts through to construction workers.