Plies or the layers of the plywood are the key to the quality and the nature of the wood. They determine the strength and the durability of the plywood.
The number and the thickness of the plies in a plywood sheet determine how much load it can take, from being used as a flooring material to being used as furniture.
In plywoods, there is usually more than one type of veneer in each layer or ply. In some types, there can be up to five types of veneer within a single layer or ply. Each type has different strengths and performance properties that you need to know about before buying them for your project.
As a general rule, the more plies the plywood has the thicker the veneers in the plies will be. If the plywood has numerous plies, the resulting sheet will generally be more stable and durable than plywoods with less plies.
Typically, the core layer is made of softwood that is lighter but weaker compared the the hardwood used for the outer layers (or plies). The harder wood can take more load or stress without warping. But it is also generally less stable over time because it expands and shrinks more due to changes in humidity.
Choosing the right plywood for your project requires understanding the different types of veneers used in one ply or layer of a certain type of plywood. Knowing about these different types of veneers will ensure the plywood you select can handle the stresses your project will put on it.
When selecting the right plywood for your project, safety should be a top priority. Make sure the plywood you choose is of the correct grade and thickness to handle the intended use. Plywood that is too thin or too weak may not be safe for some applications. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s specifications carefully to make sure the plywood you select is safe for your project.
Choosing the right plywood can make the difference between a successful project and one that fails. By understanding the different types of veneers used in plywood, you can be sure to select a sheet that has the strength and durability to handle the stresses your project will put on it. Safety should always be a top priority when selecting plywood, so make sure the plywood you choose is of the correct grade and thickness for the intended use.
