Structural Plywood

Structural plywood comes in various thicknesses in Australia, commonly ranging from 7mm to 18mm. The best thickness for your project depends on its application - consult a staff member at PLY Supply for recommendations. What determines if it is structural or not is not how thick it is but how it is manufactured and if it is certified or not.

The F Grade of a plywood sheet relates to the strength of the sheet under a number of different measures (tensile, shear, compressive strength, strength under bending etc.). In principle the higher the F grade the stronger the sheet of plywood, the more pressure and weight it can withstand. At Ply Supply we have Structural Plywood starting at F8 and F11 as well as Formply with an F17 rating.

The key difference between hardwood plywood and structural plywood lies in the glue, not the wood itself. Hardwood can be used to make structural plywood.. Here's the major difference:

• Hardwood Plywood: This type is made from thin layers of hardwood trees like oak or maple. It's known for its beautiful finish and is ideal for applications where looks matter, such as furniture, cabinets, and interior panelling.
• Structural Plywood: This plywood is designed for strength and can be made from either softwood or hardwood veneers. What makes it "structural" is the special glue used to meet specific engineering standards for load-bearing capacity. This strong glue (often called A-bond) ensures the plywood can withstand heavy loads and exposure to moisture. Structural plywood is used in construction projects like floors, roofs, and wall sheathing.

In summary, hardwood plywood is for aesthetic purposes, while structural plywood is for building strength and durability.