20 Plywood Types and Grades for Interior and Exterior Use

 

Introduction: Why Plywood Matters in Construction

When it comes to building homes, furniture, or even large commercial projects, plywood often becomes the unsung hero. It’s versatile, durable, and comes in a wide range of types and grades to fit specific needs. Whether you’re designing a cozy interior or tackling an outdoor project that must withstand the weather, there’s a plywood variety made just for it.

This guide will walk you through 20 plywood types and grades for interior and exterior use so you know exactly what to pick for your next project.

What is Plywood?

At its core, plywood is engineered wood made by gluing together thin layers of wood veneer. The grains are arranged in alternating directions, which gives plywood its strength and stability.

The Manufacturing Process

Logs are peeled into thin sheets, which are layered with adhesives and pressed under heat. This cross-grain construction ensures plywood doesn’t warp or crack easily.

Why Plywood is Popular

Compared to solid wood, plywood is cost-effective, lighter, and less prone to shrinking or expanding. That’s why it’s loved in construction, carpentry, and even creative DIY projects.

Plywood Grades Explained

Plywood comes in different grades depending on its surface finish and quality. Let’s break them down.

A-Grade Plywood

Smooth, free of knots, and perfect for cabinets, shelves, and decorative finishes.

B-Grade Plywood

Minor imperfections, but still looks good for interiors and furniture making.

C-Grade Plywood

Visible knots and splits—often used where looks don’t matter, like subfloors.

D-Grade Plywood

Lowest quality, rough surfaces, and used for temporary structures.

Types of Plywood for Interior Use

1. MR (Moisture Resistant) Plywood

Ideal for indoor furniture like wardrobes and cupboards. It handles humidity but not prolonged water exposure.

2. Commercial Plywood

Affordable and commonly used in office furniture, partitions, and panelling.

3. Decorative Veneer Plywood

Comes with a fine finish layer of natural wood veneer, giving furniture a premium look.

4. Flexible Plywood

Bends easily without breaking—used for curved furniture designs.

5. Fire-Retardant Plywood

Chemically treated to slow down fire spread. Popular in public buildings and kitchens.

6. Laminated Plywood

Covered with a thin laminate sheet for added style and durability.

Types of Plywood for Exterior Use

7. BWP (Boiling Water Proof) Plywood

Completely water-resistant and great for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor furniture.

8. Marine Plywood

Built to survive constant contact with water. Perfect for boats, docks, and coastal construction.

9. Structural Plywood

Strong and designed to bear heavy loads—used in flooring and roofing.

10. Shuttering Plywood

Used as a mold for concrete in construction. It’s durable and reusable.

11. Weather-Resistant Plywood

Coated to withstand rain, wind, and sun exposure for outdoor projects.

12. Film-Faced Plywood

Has a protective film layer, commonly used in shuttering and formwork.

Specialized Plywood Types

13. Hardwood Plywood

Made from hardwood species like oak and maple. Dense, durable, and premium.

14. Softwood Plywood

Created from pine or cedar, lightweight but less durable than hardwood.

15. Bamboo Plywood

Eco-friendly and stylish, often used for modern interiors.

16. Aircraft Plywood

Extremely strong yet lightweight—originally used in aviation, now for high-performance needs.

17. Particle Board vs. Plywood

Particle board is cheaper but weaker. Plywood is the better long-term choice.

18. Blockboard vs. Plywood

Blockboard has a solid wooden core, making it sturdier for large furniture.

19. MDF vs. Plywood

MDF is smoother but weaker than plywood. Great for painted finishes.

20. Eco-Friendly Plywood

Made from sustainable wood and low-emission adhesives—better for the environment.

Choosing the Right Plywood

Factors to Consider

Think about moisture, load-bearing needs, and whether it’s for indoors or outdoors.

Cost vs. Quality

High-grade plywood costs more but lasts longer—worth the investment.

Interior vs. Exterior Application

Don’t use interior plywood outside; it won’t survive harsh weather.

Maintenance Tips for Plywood

How to Increase Lifespan

Keep it dry, apply sealants, and clean regularly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid placing interior-grade plywood in damp areas and never skip edge sealing.

Conclusion

Plywood is more than just sheets of engineered wood—it’s the backbone of modern construction. From stylish interiors to weather-resistant exteriors, each type serves a unique purpose. By understanding the 20 plywood types and grades, you can make smarter choices for durability, safety, and style in your projects.

FAQs

1. Which plywood is best for furniture?
MR and decorative veneer plywood are best for indoor furniture.

2. What is the difference between MR and BWP plywood?
MR is moisture-resistant, while BWP is completely waterproof.

3. Can marine plywood be used indoors?
Yes, but it’s overkill unless water resistance is needed.

4. Is plywood stronger than MDF?
Yes, plywood is stronger, more durable, and less prone to sagging.

5. How do I protect plywood from water damage?
Use waterproof coatings, laminates, or edge sealing for protection.

Contact Us – Virgin Wood Enterprises
Looking for guidance on Twenty Plywood Types and Grades for Interior and Exterior Use? We’re here to help you pick the perfect plywood for your interior or exterior projects.

 Address: 23-KM Ferozpur Road, Near Total Petrol Pump, Lahore, Pakistan
Phone: +92 33 111 49 789
Landline: +92 42 352 70 789
Email: info@virginwoodply.com
Website: www.virginwoodply.com