Hardwood plywood is a versatile, economical material with many different uses. At Jaeger Lumber, our building professionals help homeowners and contractors in New Jersey find the products they need to make any project a success. Here, we discuss what plywood hardwood is and how to select the right materials for your next job.
What Is Hardwood Plywood?
Plywood is an engineered wood-based composite material that consists of layers of wood that are glued together and cured under heat and pressure, with the grain direction of each layer running perpendicular to its adjacent layers. Hardwood plywood usually has a face and back veneer made of finished or stain-ready hardwoods like oak, cherry, maple, mahogany, or beech.
The inner layers of hardwood plywood may be comprised of a core made from hardwood or softwoods like pine and cedar. Its cross-layered structure and powerful adhesive make it a strong and versatile material that’s ideal for making cabinets, furniture, and millwork. Hardwood plywood panels are available in many grades and species and are a more economical alternative to solid hardwoods.
Grades of Hardwood Plywood
There are four grades of hardwood plywood: A, B, C and D, which refer to the appearance and quality of the face veneers. A is the highest quality and D is the lowest. The back side of hardwood plywood is rated from 1 to 4, with 1 being the best quality and 4 the worst. Which type you choose depends on what you’re using it for. If both sides of your hardwood plywood will be visible, A1, A2, B1, or B2 are usually your best bet. If the back will be hidden, A4 or B4 may be a good choice. The most common size for a sheet of hardwood plywood is 4×8 feet, but they’re available in many other sizes and various thicknesses as well.
What Is Hardwood Plywood Used For?
Hardwood plywood is well suited for a wide range of applications. In addition to being a leading material used in cabinetry and furniture making, it is often used to make musical instruments such as pianos and stringed instruments. It can also be an attractive alternative to solid hardwood. Hardwood plywood can also be used for:
- Built-in closets
- Shelves
- Doors
- Paneling
- Flooring
- Wall sheathing
- Kitchens
- Outdoor decking
- Other architectural and building applications
- Toys
- Sporting equipment
- Skateboard ramps
Advantages of Hardwood Plywood
Contractors, architects, designers, cabinet makers, and DIYers alike can all reap the benefits of working with this versatile material. The advantages of using hardwood plywood include:
Strength
Hardwood plywood’s bonded crisscrossed layers and phenolic adhesives make it stronger than solid wood or steel when used in certain applications.
Durability
The evenly distributed strength of hardwood plywood makes it extremely durable. It’s an affordable option that stands the test of time. It’s also less likely to warp than softwood plywood.
Sustainability
The process of making hardwood plywood uses more of the log than other types of lumber, which means less waste.
Flexibility
Because hardwood plywood is more flexible than solid wood, it can be used for curved furniture, cabinets, columns, arches, and other applications. Marine-grade plywood is often used in the construction of boats.
Affordability
If you’re on a budget, hardwood plywood provides the beauty and strength of solid wood without the hefty price tag.
Learn More About Hardwood Plywood at Jaeger Lumber
Since 1937, Jaeger Lumber has provided quality materials and expert services to homeowners and contractors in New Jersey. The professionals at our eight locations are available to discuss hardwood plywood and its applications, as well as help you find whatever you need for your next home improvement project. Contact us today to learn more about hardwood plywood or the other products and services we offer.
