Get the Right Plywood for Your Project
Plywood is an engineered wood product that you can use for a range of different projects — from outdoor construction to building furniture and other décor items. It’s made by gluing together thin sheets of wood. Exterior plywood sheets are made with waterproof glue so they can resist wet weather conditions.
Types of Plywood
Plywood can be made from various trees, including fir, pine, oak, maple and more. Lowe’s offers multiple types of plywood, such as OSB plywood, MDF boards and much more so you can find panels that are perfect for any project. OSB boards can be used for wall sheathing, floor underlayment and roof decking. Since OSB has a natural wood grain, you can stain, finish or paint it to suit your taste. Additionally, MDF has a dense construction and is easy to cut cleanly, making this fiberboard an excellent choice for interior projects that won’t be exposed to moisture, such as shelving, cabinets and furniture.
For building furniture and cabinetry, hardwood plywood is an ideal choice because it’s durable and features an attractive finish. Birch plywood is excellent for shelving and décor because it’s strong and looks beautiful. Alternatively, Baltic birch plywood is perfect for cabinet and furniture making. For construction jobs where you need a base layer for walls, floors or the roof, sheathing plywood gets the job done. Typically, plywood for sheathing is constructed with moisture- and weather-resistant features. You could also opt for water-resistant plywood in home improvement projects, including outdoor applications, underlayment, subfloors, and kitchen or bathroom projects, that may face long-term exposure to moisture.
Pressure-treated plywood resists rot and insect damage. This damage resistance makes pressure-treated plywood the best choice for exterior projects. Depending on your project, look for pressure-treated plywood rated for either ground contact or above-ground use.
When shopping online or in store, you’ll typically find 4 x 8 plywood boards, which measure 4 feet in width and 8 feet in length. Common thicknesses include 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch. Plywood grades range from A, offering a smooth, knot-free surface, to D, which has the most flaws and knots but provides a more economical option for projects where appearance isn’t critical. For help choosing the right wood product for your project, see our Particle Board Buying Guide.
