What Is Plywood and How Do You Pick the Best Plywood for Your Furniture?

When narrowing down your options of furniture materials, you should know that there are different types of plywood for interior design to choose from. Moreover, the many types of plywood can also be used as a substitute for wood, making them a comparatively affordable option. That being said, it comes as no surprise that this material is in high demand.

Given its many wondrous qualities, we at Livspace use the best plywood for furniture, roofs, and flooring to chalk out your dream home. So, if you’re thinking of opting for plywood sheets but are confused about the uses of plywood, their types, sizes, and price, we’re here to help.

Here is a complete rundown on the best types of plywood for furniture in India, as well as the advantages and disadvantages that are helpful to note.

Understanding this material can be a little confusing as there are many types of plywood with different sizes and prices in the market. To help simplify it for you, Livspace custom manufactures plywood sheets that are of the best quality (European grade E1). And why are we so particular about our plywood? Watch the video above to understand. Get all your answers to what is plywood, what are the different grades, and what are the different types of plywood.

What Are the Uses of Plywood?

Wooden veneer is glued together to make plywood sheets

As mentioned in the video, plywood sheets are actually engineered wood that’s made by glueing thin veneer sheets together, with a resin and under high pressure. This creates a thick and strong, yet flexible flat sheet. It’s usually preferred over solid wood as it’s cheaper and less likely to warp or shrink over time.

This versatile material has numerous uses, both in your interiors and exteriors (sheathing). You can use plywood in your partitions, cabinetry, ceilings, wardrobes, and even your floors! If you’re a fan of decor, plywood can even prove to be great for decorative elements such as wall panelling, cladding, and arches.

However, it’s important to note that there are different types of plywood, each with grades that suit different purposes. To know which plywood is best for various uses, check out the list below.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Plywood?

Advantages:

ConvenienceCan be used easily without damage to planks due to nailsDurabilityLess likely to warp or shrink and is water-resistantEconomicalCheaper than solid woodFlexibleAvailable in various sizes, densities, and qualitiesEco-friendlyMinimal wastage and can be recycled

Disadvantages:

ShapeCannot be carved like woodDelicate MaterialIt may chip and splinter easilyAssessing the QualityQuality cannot be assessed by just looking at itUsageRequires add-ons like laminates, paint, or polish

What Is the Plywood Price per Sq. Ft.?

Plywood prices can vary based on the type of plywood and its thickness and quality. You might want to consider all these factors before making a purchase.

• The usual plywood prices for MR ply start from ₹45 per sq. ft.
• BWR plywood prices start from ₹60 per sq. ft.
• BWP or Marine plywood is on the higher end, starting from ₹75 per sq. ft., as its sturdy and waterproof features are better than interior-grade ply

** Prices are indicative of market rates and can vary.

What Are the Best Types of Plywood to Use in Your Interiors?

Just as there are many types of wood, there are also over 18 types of plywood in India. They are distinguished based on the type of wood used, its application, and its process. However, the three basic types of plywood used in interior design are – MR (moisture-resistant) ply, BWR (boiling-water-resistant), and BWP (boiling-water-proof) ply also known as marine plywood.

1. Moisture-Resistant Plywood for Humid Homes

MR can be one of the best plywood for furniture in common areas

Also known as commercial ply among local vendors, MR plywood sheets come under the types of plywood that are extensively used in interiors. If you are to ask which is the best plywood for furniture in India, MR plywood will top that list as it has good resistance to moisture in damp and humid conditions.

Its urea formaldehyde resin helps make it a highly water-resistant material. If you need numbers, it can withstand exposure to water at 60 °C for a period of three hours.

2. Boiling-Water-Resistant (BWR) Plywood for Kitchens and Bathrooms

BWR sheets are used in kitchen and bathrooms as they have water-resistant properties

Among the several types of plywood for furniture, BWR sheets are preferred for both interiors and exteriors. In fact, BWR plywood even tops the list when it comes to cupboard requirements in kitchens and bathrooms.

This is because it has resistance to boiling water for up to 8 hours. For your exteriors, you can use it as wall cladding or in your staircases to benefit from its water-resistant nature.

3. Marine Plywood for Durable Interiors

Among the many types of plywood for furniture, marine plywood is preferred for its durable nature and superior quality. Also known as Boiling Water Proof Plywood (BWP), Marine Ply can withstand 72 hours of exposure to boiling water. Thus, its applications are found mainly in boat building and industries where exposure to water is high.

You might not necessarily need all this proofing, but like the video mentions, such safety standards will give you peace of mind. So go ahead, install marine plywood in your kitchen and bathroom interiors if your budget permits.

4. Flexible Plywood for Versatile Designs

If you need dynamic or curved structures, use flexible plywood

As the name suggests, flexible plywood is a type of plywood that can be bent without breaking. This quality allows flexible plywood to construct unique designs and structures. And in terms of trending designs, arches are on the rise. So, if you’ve ever coveted a chic wall arch at home, now’s your chance to make one with flexible ply!

Also Read: Particle Board vs Plywood: Which Material Is Better for Your Home?

5. Soft Plywood for DIY Enthusiasts

Soft plywood shelves are easy to replace in case of damage

This type of plywood is made with douglas, fir, or maple trees. This type of plywood is commonly used to make cupboard exteriors, floors, countertops, and fences around properties. Moreover, you can easily replace them in case of wear or tear.

6. Hard Plywood for Sturdy Decorative Elements

Use hardwood plywood for places that can wear and tear easily

Compared to soft plywood, hard plywood is sturdier. Woods from trees such as red maple and mahogany make up its core material. This type of plywood is considered a premium material and thus, is on the pricier side. It’s typically used in heavy-duty places such as on floors or transportation containers.

7. Tropical Plywood: The Best Quality Plywood for Furniture in Asia

Tropical timber is mostly found in Asia and has a plethora of uses

Made with mixed hardwood species of tropical timber, tropical plywood is mostly manufactured in the Asian region. Due to its low costs, it’s mainly used in construction, as a base for flooring, or furniture.

8. Aircraft Plywood for Industrial Strength

If you want premium grade material, go for airplane plywood

Also known as airplane plywood, aircraft plywood is a type of hard plywood or thin birch plywood. It was used during WWII to construct various aircrafts, making it a durable material that matches up to premium grade qualities. 

Check for These Specifications While Picking the Best Plywood for Interior Design

1. Plywood Thickness

Ply means layer. The thickness of the sheet is determined by the ply. More ply creates a thicker and stronger board. The minimum number of plies are 3-ply and can go up to five or more. Plywood with fewer plies are thinner and weaker, even if they’re of the same thickness.

• 3-ply: These sheets are 2 to 3 mm thick and are the most common type of plywood used in interiors
• 5-ply: This plywood sheet is the most versatile option that is 4 mm thick. This type of plywood works great for indoor and outdoor furniture and decorative boards
• Multi-ply: This plywood sheet has 7 or more layers. It is the best plywood for furniture and durable enough for permanent structures like roofing

Also Read: What Is Engineered Wood and Why It Is the Perfect Choice for You

2. Plywood Grades

Looking for the best plywood for furniture pieces? Look out for plywood types and grades. Plywood sheets often come with grades that can determine their quality and appearance. These grades and qualities also play a major role in determining plywood prices.

• A-grade: The best plywood for furniture pieces and cabinets, A-grade plywood has a smooth and sanded surface with minor defects. These qualities will reflect in the plywood prices.
• B-grade: This grade of plywood is similar to the A-grade variety, with a few knots. However, the defects can go up to 1 inch across.
• C-grade: This grade is unsanded with minor knots and defects like discolouration. They are ideal for structures where appearance is not important. These are occasionally used as laminated plywood by carpenters.
• D-grade: Similar to C-grade, D-grade plywood is unsanded and has snags that have not been repaired. Given these defects, this grade of plywood tends to be cheapest.

3. Plywood Sizes

Buying these sheets is comparatively easy. When you purchase a plywood sheet, you know exactly what size you’re getting because they are available in standard measurements. Moreover, they are pre-cut to reduce waste. The most popular and common dimensions are 4 × 8 ft.

Another popular option is 7 × 4 ft. When it comes to thickness, plywood commonly has a thickness of 18 mm. However, you can get a variety that ranges from 6 mm, 8 mm, 12 mm, 16 mm, and 18 mm in thickness.

***Colours and finishes are subject to availability. Please check with your nearest Livspace store for more details.

How Can Livspace Help You?

We hope you found this guide on the different types of plywood useful! If you want beautiful interiors for your home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today. Have any thoughts or suggestions you’d like to share with us? We’re all ears! Drop us a line at [email protected].

To know how our customers feel about working with us, check out these Livspace reviews for more details.

Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.

FAQs

1. What Type of Plywood Is Waterproof?

Boiling Water Proof (BWP) plywood or Marine plywood is a waterproof material best suited for use in kitchens and bathrooms.

2. Which Plywood Is Strongest?

Marine plywood is a strong and durable type of plywood that’s also water-resistant.

3. Which Is Better: MDF or Plywood?

Both MDF and plywood have their advantages and disadvantages. Plywood can be more expensive, but is a durable and long-lasting solution for your furniture. However, if you’re on a strict budget, MDF can be a more budget-friendly solution.

4. Which Type of Plywood Is Cheapest?

D-grade plywood can be the cheapest grade of plywood due to its defects.