Commercial plywood is a widely used type of plywood that is suitable for various applications due to its affordability and versatility. It's commonly used for interior furniture, cabinets, paneling, and other general-purpose construction projects. Here are some key features and information about commercial plywood:
Construction: Commercial plywood is made by bonding together several layers of wood veneers, with the grain direction of adjacent layers usually perpendicular to each other. This cross-grain construction enhances the plywood's strength and stability.
Wood Species: The core and veneer layers of commercial plywood are often made from softwood species such as pine, fir, or eucalyptus. These species are more readily available and cost-effective.
Adhesives: Commercial plywood typically uses urea-formaldehyde or phenol-formaldehyde adhesive for bonding the veneers. While these adhesives offer reasonable strength and moisture resistance, they are not as waterproof as those used in marine plywood.
Grading: Commercial plywood comes in different grades, which determine the quality of the plywood's surface and the presence of any defects. Common grades include BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) and MR (Moisture Resistant).
Applications: Commercial plywood is commonly used for indoor applications where water exposure is limited. It's suitable for making furniture, cabinets, partitions, doors, ceilings, and other interior structures.
Appearance: Commercial plywood has a relatively plain appearance compared to more decorative or higher-grade plywood options. It can be finished with paints, laminates, veneers, or other coatings to enhance its appearance.
Strength and Durability: While not as strong or durable as marine plywood or other high-end plywood options, commercial plywood still provides reasonable strength for many common applications.
Sizes and Thicknesses: Commercial plywood is available in various sizes and thicknesses to accommodate different project requirements.
Cost-Effectiveness: One of the primary advantages of commercial plywood is its affordability. It's a cost-effective option for projects with budget constraints.
Interior Use: Commercial plywood is recommended for indoor applications. It's not as suitable for outdoor use or applications where prolonged exposure to moisture is expected.
When using commercial plywood, it's important to consider factors such as the specific requirements of your project, the level of moisture exposure, and the desired appearance. If your project requires higher moisture resistance or greater durability, you might want to explore other types of plywood, such as marine plywood or exterior-grade plywood. Always ensure that the plywood you choose meets the standards and specifications appropriate for your application.