Quality Plywood for Thailand
Professional B2B Supplier

Delivering high-quality plywood solutions for your projects — from furniture to construction, built for varied applications.

Guide Contents

Basics
Selection
Application
FAQ

Plywood Basics

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What is Plywood?

Plywood is an engineered wood panel made by gluing together multiple thin layers of wood veneers. The grain direction of each layer is perpendicular to the next, which greatly improves the panel’s strength and stability.

This structure makes plywood more dimensionally stable than solid wood, less prone to warping, and allows for efficient use of wood resources, reducing costs.

Plywood Structure

Standard plywood consists of three or more veneer layers:

  • Face Veneer: The outermost, high-quality layer that determines the panel’s appearance.
  • Core Veneer: The middle layer(s) that primarily affect the panel’s strength and thickness.
  • Back Veneer: The inner layer that provides protection and balance.

The number of layers is usually odd (3-ply, 5-ply, 7-ply, etc.) to ensure symmetry on both sides and minimize warping.

Common Types of Plywood

Plywood can be categorized into various types based on use and properties:

By Use

  • Furniture Plywood
  • Construction Plywood
  • Decorative Plywood
  • Packaging Plywood

By Property

  • Standard Plywood
  • Water-Resistant Plywood
  • Fire-Retardant Plywood
  • Wear-Resistant Plywood

Plywood Selection Guide

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Choosing by Application

Different applications require different types of plywood:

Application Recommended Type Key Features
Indoor Furniture Multi-layer Linden/Basswood Plywood, Birch Faced Plywood Eco-friendly, Smooth Surface, Easy to Work With
Outdoor Construction Phenolic Glue Waterproof Plywood, Treated Outdoor Plywood Waterproof, Weather-resistant, UV-resistant
Concrete Formwork Brown Film Formwork, Black Film Formwork High Strength, Wear-resistant, High Reuse Count
Special Environments Fire-Retardant Plywood, Anti-static Plywood Specific Functions, Meets Industry Standards

How to Judge Plywood Quality

Look for these points when selecting high-quality plywood:

Visual Check

The surface should be flat and smooth, with no obvious defects, bubbles, dents, or stains. The grain should be clear and consistent.

Edge Check

Edges should be straight, without splinters or delamination. The veneer layers should be tightly bonded.

Smell Check

Good plywood should not have a strong, pungent odor. A mild wood smell is normal.

Density Check

For the same thickness, good plywood should feel heavier and have uniform density.

Environmental Standards & Certifications

Environmental performance is a key factor when choosing plywood:

Formaldehyde Emission Standards

  • E0 Grade: Formaldehyde emission ≤0.5mg/L, the most eco-friendly level.
  • E1 Grade: Formaldehyde emission ≤1.5mg/L, safe standard for indoor use.
  • E2 Grade: Formaldehyde emission ≤5.0mg/L, usually requires treatment before indoor use.

Our products meet E0 or E1 environmental standards and are safe for indoor use. Some products also have international FSC forest certification, ensuring sustainable wood sourcing.

Plywood Application Guide

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Working & Installation Tips

Keep these points in mind when working with and installing plywood:

Cutting & Drilling

  • Use sharp saw blades for a smooth cut.
  • Pre-drill pilot holes with a small bit before driving screws.
  • Secure the panel properly during work to avoid vibration and splintering.

Joining & Fixing

  • Use screws or nails of the correct length to avoid piercing through.
  • Use wood glue at important joints for added strength.
  • Fix points should be at least 15mm from the edge to prevent splitting.

Surface Finishing

  • Sand if needed for a smoother surface.
  • Finish with paint, varnish, or veneer for decoration.
  • For outdoor use, apply protective coating regularly to extend lifespan.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care extends the life of plywood:

Indoor Plywood Care

  • Avoid long-term exposure to damp conditions.
  • Dust regularly with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
  • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading and warping.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects to prevent scratches.

Outdoor Plywood Care

  • Apply surface protection at least once a year.
  • Check and repair any cracks or damage.
  • Ensure proper drainage in the installation design.
  • Clean off moss and stains regularly.

Quantity Estimation Guide

A simple method to estimate how much plywood you need:

Basic Calculation Formula

Number of sheets needed = (Total Area ÷ Area per sheet) × 1.1 (adds 10% for waste)

Standard sheet size: 1220mm × 2440mm (approx. 2.977 sqm)

Quick Estimate Table

Project Area (sqm) Standard Sheets Sheets (with waste)
10 3-4 4
50 17 19
100 34 37
500 168 185

Note: Actual usage may vary based on cutting method, sheet size, and project complexity.

For a more accurate estimate, please contact our technical staff with detailed project drawings and specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of plywood compared to solid wood?

Advantages:

  • More stable, less prone to warping and cracking.
  • Uniform strength, more consistent mechanical properties.
  • Cost is usually lower than solid wood of comparable quality.
  • Eco-friendly, makes efficient use of wood resources.
  • Standardized sizes, easier to work with and install.

Disadvantages:

  • Natural grain and texture not as rich as high-quality solid wood.
  • Some low-cost products may have environmental issues.
  • Edge treatment requires professional skill.

Is waterproof plywood really waterproof? Can it be used in water?

Waterproof plywood has good water resistance, but it is not completely waterproof. It can withstand damp environments and occasional water splash, but is not suitable for prolonged immersion in water.

Water resistance comes from special adhesives (like phenolic resin) and treatment processes. Different grades offer different levels of resistance:

  • Standard Water-Resistant: Suitable for damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Outdoor Water-Resistant: Suitable for covered outdoor environments.
  • Marine Grade: Suitable for high humidity and occasional immersion.

Even for the highest grade, we recommend taking proper waterproofing measures like applying sealant or protective paint to extend its service life.

How can I tell if plywood is good quality?

You can judge plywood quality from these aspects:

1

Check the Look

Good plywood has a flat surface, no obvious flaws, clear and even grain, uniform color.

2

Check the Layers

Layers should be tightly bonded, no delamination or bubbles. Edges should be neat.

3

Test the Stiffness

Press the surface lightly with your finger. Good plywood should feel hard, not easily dented.

4

Check Certifications

Quality products usually have environmental certifications and quality test reports.

How should I store plywood to keep it in good condition?

  • Store in a dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid dampness and direct sunlight.
  • Place flat on a level surface. Use lumber underneath to raise it off the ground, preventing moisture.
  • Don’t stack too high to avoid deforming the bottom sheets.
  • Store different types and sizes separately, and label them clearly.
  • For long-term storage, check periodically for mold and insects.
  • For temporary outdoor storage, cover completely with waterproof tarpaulin to protect from rain and sun.

Need a Professional Plywood Solution?

Whether you are a furniture maker, construction company, or renovation contractor, we can provide tailored plywood products and services for you.