How to Size Plywood

Plywood sizing is not as straightforward as you might think.

When working with wood, there are many terms and rules that are specific to woodworking. One of these specific rules is in regard to the measurements of the wood. This also applies to plywood. You must understand the relationship between the listed measurements of the plywood at the store versus the actual measurements of the plywood. Understanding how the sizing of plywood works will ensure that your project goes smoothly.

Instructions

1. Choose the right width. Most plywood boards are 4 feet wide. However, this is not always the case. Plywood comes in 2 feet widths and 5 feet widths. The nature of your project will dictate which size will best suit your needs. Watch carefully when you are buying the plywood to ensure you buy the right size.

2. Watch the length of your plywood boards as well. There is a standard length in plywood, but like the width, it can vary, so you must watch carefully. Most plywood is 8 feet long, but some plywood is 4 feet, 8 feet and even 12 feet. Buying plywood that is too long may not be as much of an issue as plywood that is too short. Avoid spending more than necessary since wood does tend to be costly.

3. Measure the thickness carefully. Plywood is sold in certain thicknesses, but the actual measurement of the plywood is different. This can cause issues when you are expecting the plywood to be a certain thickness and it ends up being thicker than you expected. Plywood is often sold in thicknesses of 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch. However, when you measure the plywood, the thicknesses are actually 7/32 inch, 15/32 inch, and 23/32 inch respectively. Other sizes may also be available, but all thicknesses will be 1/32 inch thicker than stated. Therefore, if you are inserting the plywood into another piece of wood, you will need to compensate for this extra 1/32 inch.

References

• Woodworking Web: Plywood Grading