To choose what grade or type of plywood is most adequate for any given type of construction project is relatively difficult to determine. For example, the best type of plywood for building an outdoor project like a porch or deck may not necessarily be the most effective plywood for an indoor project like flooring or cabinets. So you need Understanding the Different Types of Plywood to choose the right plywood type for your purpose

Grades of Plywood

–     A-grade plywood: This is the highest-quality plywood and therefore typically the most expensive, since the veneers will be flawless. A-grade plywood is smooth and can be easily painted.
–     B-grade plywood: B-grade plywood is slightly less smooth than A-grade plywood and has a solid foundation. It usually has minor flaws and can be subject to repairs.
–     C-grade plywood: This type of plywood has a few knots in its sheets that are up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
–     D-grade plywood: The cheapest type of plywood veneers, these sheets typically haven’t been repaired. The flaws can be slightly larger and the knots in this type of plywood can be up to 2.5 inches in diameter.

Different Types Of Plywood

Each veneer contains two grades, with the corresponding compounds labeled as ‘AB’ or ‘BC,’ for example. The first letter refers to the ‘face’ veneer,’ while the second one is for the ‘back’ sheet. If a plywood compound’s name has an X at the end, this means it has a certain level of exposure to moisture. By definition, plywood sheets are arranged perpendicularly to each other. Plywood can come in various thicknesses, including ½-inch, ¼-inch, and ¾-inch.

For example:
CDX-grade plywood is typically inexpensive material, as it is made of the two lowest grades (C and D). It can also withstand some exposure to moisture. CDX plywood is great for building work tables and storage units.

There are over 18 types of plywood distinguished based on the type of wood used, application and process. However, let us concentrate on the two basic types –  MR ply, BWR/BWP ply for Indoor Uses and  Outdoor Uses

Moisture Resistant Plywood

Also known as commercial ply by local vendors, is used in interiors extensively. From furniture to cabinets, it has good resistance to moisture in damp and humid conditions, making it a favourite material in tropical areas. However, this is not waterproof.

Boiling Water Resistant and Boiling Water Proof Ply

It is most favoured for interior and exteriors as well. The resistance to water makes it suitable for all weather conditions and is also used in the bathrooms and kitchens where exposure to water is high. It is also used for wall cladding on the exteriors, staircases and more due to its waterproof nature.

Whether or not a certain type of plywood can withstand snow, rain, or other types of weather events depends on factors like heat and moisture.

Contact Fomex Greenwood in Vietnam to learn more about what type and grade of plywood is most suitable for your construction project. Fomex is a wholesale plywood distributor founded in 2013 that specializes in both plywood and treated projects. The company services control the quality of plywood in Vietnam market