Laminated Veneer Lumber Guide | Benefits, Uses & LVL Top Picks

Are you looking to organise and maximise your garage space? One of the key decisions you’ll need to make is selecting the best wood for garage storage solutions.

Whether you’re building wooden garage shelves, cabinets, or a complete storage system, the right wood will ensure your shelves are sturdy, long-lasting, and capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of your garage, like moisture, heat, and termites.

At Ply Supply, we offer a wide selection of high-quality, durable woods—perfect for your garage storage projects. Our plywood and LVL products are treated to resist moisture and termites, making them ideal for the tough Western Australian climate.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best wood options for garage storage. Additionally, we’ll provide you with a selection of our premium products designed to keep your storage systems strong and functional for years.

Let’s get started.

What are the Best Types of Wood for Garage Storage?

Not all woods are the same. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses. Here, we’ll take a look at top 9 wood types for garage shelving and wooden garage cabinets. Including the best plywood choices available at Ply Supply.

1. Plywood | the versatile classic

Plywood is a popular choice for its versatility and affordability. It is made by layering thin sheets of wood together. Creating a strong and stable material. Even for durable shelving, you can use relatively thin sheets of plywood as long as they are properly supported.

For garage shelves, we recommend using a thickness of 3/4-inch plywood for garage shelves.

This offers a good balance of strength without adding unnecessary weight. If you want extra strength, check out these two of our plywood products:

They are treated with H2S glueline termite treatment, offering a superior protection against termites and moisture. Now, you can get long-lasting wooden garage cabinets and shelves that will withstand the harsh conditions of your garage.

2. Hardwood Plywood | durable & long-lasting

If you’re looking for more tough and long-lasting material. Hardwood plywood is an excellent option. It is made from layers of hardwood trees that make it incredibly strong and durable. It can easily hold heavy items like tools, paint cans, or power equipment.

One of the key benefits of hardwood plywood is that it retains its shape under pressure. Plus, it is resistant to moisture which makes it a great choice for wooden garage shelves that can experience temperature fluctuations.

At Ply Supply, our hardwood plywood panels are designed to withstand these challenges. Explore them to make your garage storage functional and attractive for years to come.

3. CDX Plywood | affordable & reliable

For those looking for an affordable option that still offers strength and durability. CDX plywood is what you need.

While it might be the most aesthetically pleasing. But CDX plywood stands out in performance and affordability. It’s the best pick for your garage shelves where looks aren’t the top priority.

CDX plywood often has visible imperfections. But these are easily hidden by the items stored on the shelves or a coat of paint. If you take proper care and do finishing, it can last a long time and serve you well.

Find these top picks from our C/D grade plywood products at Ply Supply. They are termite-resistant and durable options for your garage shelving needs.

4. Pressure Treated Lumber | built for the elements

Pressure-treated lumber is a top nominee for heavy-duty shelving that won’t break the bank.

It’s pressure treatment helps protect the wood from moisture, termites, and decay. Now, you have a perfect solution wood for garages that are exposed to the elements. Being slightly more expensive than untreated wood, it’s worth the investment for long-lasting, low-maintenance shelving.

5. Ply LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) | high-strength & durable

Another option is Ply LVL which is a form of timber – a high-strength engineered wood product made to handle heavy loads. It’s great for building strong, load-bearing shelves. Especially in garages where you need extra support.

Our Ply LVL products are also termite-resistant – thanks to H2S treatment. Check out these four of best options at Ply Supply:

These products are ideal for durable, heavy-duty shelving in garages where strength and durability are essential.

6. Eucalyptus Plywood | strength with style

Need a combination of strength and beauty?

Eucalyptus Plywood with a European oak veneer is the perfect solution. This premium plywood offers the durability of eucalyptus wood with the stunning, polished finish of oak. This makes it ideal for wooden cabinetry in garages where aesthetics is as important as functionality.

The moisture-resistance of eucalyptus and luxurious look of European oak combine together. And make plywood an excellent choice for homeowners who want to enhance their garage look, while ensuring long-lasting durability.

7. Pallet Wood | budget-friendly & eco-friendly

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t need fancy storage. Pallet wood is a practical and eco-friendly option.

Many people use recycled pallet wood to make garage shelves for storing tools or miscellaneous items. Pallet wood is generally easy to find and inexpensive. A good choice for quick, low-cost projects. While pallet wood may save you money. It’s not the most durable option and may not last as long as other wood varieties.

For heavier storage or long-term use. It’s recommended to invest in higher-quality wood like hardwood plywood or pressure-treated timber as a better option.

8. Pine | affordable softwood

Pine is a widely available and budget-friendly option for those who prefer softwoods for garage shelves. It is relatively strong, inexpensive, and easy to work with. You can find it at most local hardware stores.

But pine may not be the best choice for shelves that need to support a lot of weight. As it can bend or warp over time.

If you plan to store heavier items. Consider opting for a stronger wood like hardwood plywood or Ply LVL.

9. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) | smooth but sensitive

MDF is another option for garage shelves. But it comes with some limitations.

MDF is made from wood fibers that are compressed together. Giving it a smooth and consistent surface. It’s great for lightweight storage and is easy to paint or finish. Additionally, it is highly sensitive to moisture. This can cause it to swell and lose its structural integrity.

For garage environments where moisture can be a concern. Go for hardwood plywood or pressure-treated lumber as they would be more reliable options.

If you decide to use MDF, make sure it stays dry to prevent damage.

9 Benefits of Using Wood for Garage Storage & Cabinets

To know why wood is ideal for garage storage, let’s explore the following benefits of having wooden garage shelves and cabinets:

Ready for Customisation

One of the best aspects of wood cabinets in garage is their adaptability. Woods can be easily customised as compared to metal or plastic You can easily find wooden cabinets in various sizes and styles, or you can cut wood according to your garage’s requirements.

Natural Aesthetics

Wooden shelves bring a touch of nature into your garage. Their rustic vibe helps to reduce the stress. The delightful scent of wood serves for overall relaxing environment.

Cost-Effective Options

If you’re on a budget, you can consider cheaper alternatives. Like particle board cabinets. While these might not last as long. Proper care can extend their lifespan. Just remember to mount them on the wall to minimise the wear and tear.

High-End Storage for Luxury Items

Wooden cabinets are perfect for storing valuable equipment. Such as motors, ski gear, and golf clubs. They offer a higher level of luxury compared to plastic or metal storage solutions.

Efficient Insulation

Thanks to the wood’s unique cellular structure. It makes the wood an excellent insulator. This means that garage cabinets made from wood need less energy during construction and maintenance compared to metal or plastic.

Durability and Longevity

Investing in quality hardwood ensures you have durable cabinets that can withstand wear and tear. Hardwood shelves provide superior durability, making them a reliable choice for garage storage.

Sound Absorption

Another benefit of using wood for your garage cabinets is its ability to absorb sound. This helps create a quieter space. Allowing you to work or relax without distractions.

Easy Maintenance

Wooden shelves need less upkeep than you might think. If your cabinetry starts to show signs of wear. You can easily refresh it with paint or wood varnishes.

Humidity Control

Wood naturally helps regulate humidity. It absorbs excess moisture which can be particularly beneficial in a garage that may experience temperature fluctuations.

Factors to Consider When Buying Wood for Garage Storage

Choosing the right wood for garage storage can make a big difference in how well your space functions. Here are some key factors to keep in mind as you decide:

Weight Capacity

First of all, think about how much weight your garage shelves will need to hold.

Different types of wood have varying load capacities. For lighter items, options like pine and MDF can work. But if you’re planning to store heavier tools or equipment. Hardwood plywood or LVLs are generally better choices due to their strength and durability.

Environmental Conditions

Take a moment to check the environment in your garage.

Factors like humidity, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to chemicals can affect the type of wood you should use. Choosing wood that can withstand these conditions will help ensure your storage lasts longer.

Budget Considerations

Establishing a budget is important before you start buying wood for garage shelves.

Prices can vary widely between different types of wood. Generally, CDX is more cost-effective than plywood and solid wood. Keep in mind not just the initial cost but also how long each material is likely to last. As this can impact your overall investment.

Strength and Longevity

Consider the durability of the wood you choose. Plywood and LVL are typically much stronger than MDF and pine. They may not hold up well under heavy pressure.

If you’re looking for shelves that will stand the test of time and resist bending or warping. Opting for hardwood plywood is the way to go.

Moisture Resistance

Assess how damp your garage can get. If you often find high humidity levels. It’s important to select wood that can resist moisture. Solid woods and plywood are generally more water-resistant. Choosing moisture-resistant wood will help protect your items and keep your shelves in good shape.

Availability of Wood Types

Finally, think about what types of wood are readily available in your area.

Some wood varieties can be easier to find than others. Understanding your local options can make a more informed decision when selecting the best wood for your garage storage.

Choose Ply Supply for High-Quality, Durable Garage Storage Solutions

We know how important it is to invest in long-lasting materials for your garage storage.

Our plywood products are made to handle the challenges of a garage environment. Including weight, moisture, and pests. Whether you’re building cabinets or shelves, we’ve got the best woods for your garage storage needs.

Looking to build the perfect garage storage with the best wood?

Visit Ply Supply today for high-quality plywood for garage storage and other wood options that are perfect for your next project.

Our range of products, including hardwood plywood, structural plywood, and Ply LVL, provide a variety of options tailored to meet these needs.

For Heavy Duty Shelving – Opt for hardwood plywood or Ply LVL.
For Termite Protection – Choose structural plywood with H2S termite treatment.
For Aesthetic Storage – Go for eucalyptus plywood with European oak layer on it.

Shop the Best Wood for Your Garage at Ply Supply

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Finding the Best Wood for Your Garage Storage | Ply Supply