Kinds of Plywood

Plywood is used for many building projects.

Plywood is used for many building purposes. From houses, to sheds, to barns, plywood can be used for framing, for walls and for support. Knowing what types of plywood there are and what they are used for can help a contractor make the best choices for a project.

Medium Density Fiber Core Hardwood Plywood

Medium density fiber core hardwood plywood is made from fine wood dust combined with a binding agent and then heat pressed into panels. This is one of the most common types of plywood used and is stable and sturdy. It can be covered with a veneer and maintains its original shape and density.

Medium- and High-Density Overlay Plywood

Medium- and high-density overlay plywood is made of a core material, such as laminated fir or oak veneer, overlaid with a heat pressed fiber material. This offers the builder the stability of the medium density fiber core plywood without all the weight.

Veneer Core Hardwood Plywood

Veneer core plywood is made by combining alternating layers of common plywood with a layer covered with the veneer of a finished wood grain. This gives this type of plywood the strongest stability of the types of plywood available. In addition, this plywood is lightweight and easy to handle.

Lumber Core Plywood

Lumber core plywood is the most expensive type of plywood to make, as it is heavy duty---made of solid lumber---typically basswood. Fewer and fewer manufacturers are carrying this product as it is pricey to make, ship and purchase. It is most often used for projects that need sheer stability over looks.

References

• Waterfront Woods: Plywood Types