Plywood is a versatile building material used for everything from furniture manufacturing to cabinetry and exterior construction. It's comprised of thin layers of wood that are pressed together and heated. These plies of wood are laid at different angles, with the grain of each layer going in a different direction. This unique construction makes plywood very stable and resistant to warping, shrinkage, and breakage. Learn more about the different types of this material below.

What Are the Different Grades of Plywood?

Plywood is generally categorized according to how many layers, also known as a veneer, of wood it has. The number of veneers determines the "grade" of the plywood: common grades include three-ply, five-ply, seven-ply, nine-ply, and thirteen-ply. A thirteen-ply board will logically be thicker than a three-ply board—such thicker materials may be used for more robust projects, like roofing or exterior building tasks.

What Are the Most Common Types of Plywood?

Soft plywood is made of materials like pine, cedar, or redwood, and can be used for projects like frame sheathing or sub-flooring. Meanwhile, hardwood plywood is made of materials like walnut, maple, oak, or birch, and is used for projects that require strong and sturdy support frames, such as packing cases.

Other types of plywood are characterized according to their purpose. For example, exterior plywood—used for exterior building—usually has seven veneers sandwiched together using water- and weather-resistant glue, ensuring its durability against elements like rain and snow. Marine plywood is treated with a water-resistant glue to withstand moisture, while overlaid plywood, which has a finished veneer exterior, can better withstand scratches and abrasion.

If you aren't sure what type or grade of plywood you need for a project, talk to a professional. For help in the Willamette Valley region, trust Freres Building Supply of Stayton, OR. These building materials suppliers have been in business for over 70 years, providing personalized, knowledgeable customer service. Their expert team will be happy to advise on what type of plywood is best for your project. Visit their website to view their offering and call (503) 769-2879 with any questions.