How To Choose Plywood Thickness

Selecting the right plywood thickness is crucial for the success of your project. The proper thickness ensures structural integrity, durability, and appropriate weight. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right plywood thickness:

Common Plywood Thicknesses

Plywood is typically available in the following thicknesses:

Note: Actual thickness may vary slightly due to manufacturing processes.

What Size Does Plywood Sheets Come In?

Factors to Consider

1. Project Type

Different projects require different thicknesses. Consider what you’re building:

• Cabinetry
• Furniture
• Flooring
• Roofing
• Wall sheathing
• Decorative panels

2. Load-Bearing Requirements

Thicker plywood can support more weight. Consider the load your project will need to bear.

3. Span Distance

For shelving or flooring, the distance between supports affects the required thickness.

4. Aesthetic Considerations

In some cases, the edge of the plywood will be visible, affecting your thickness choice.

5. Budget

Thicker plywood generally costs more.

Thickness Recommendations by Project Type

Cabinetry

• Cabinet backs: 1/4 inch (6 mm)
• Cabinet sides and shelves: 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch (12-18 mm)
• Cabinet Grade Plywood is ideal for these applications

Furniture

• Table tops: 3/4 inch to 1 inch (18-25 mm)
• Chair seats: 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch (12-18 mm)
• Drawer bottoms: 1/4 inch (6 mm)
• Hardwood Plywood or Baltic Birch Plywood are excellent choices

Flooring

• Subfloor: 5/8 inch to 3/4 inch (15-18 mm)
• Underlayment: 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm)
• CDX Plywood is commonly used for subflooring

Roofing

• Roof sheathing: 3/8 inch to 5/8 inch (9-15 mm), depending on rafter spacing
• Exterior Plywood is recommended for this application

Wall Sheathing

• Typically 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch (9-12 mm)
• CDX Plywood or Exterior Plywood are suitable options

Decorative Panels

• 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm), depending on the application
• Prefinished Birch Plywood can be an excellent choice

Special Considerations

1. Structural Projects: Always consult local building codes for minimum thickness requirements in structural applications.
2. Span Tables: For shelving or flooring, use span tables to determine the appropriate thickness based on the distance between supports.
3. Multiple Layers: In some cases, using multiple layers of thinner plywood can be stronger than a single thick layer.
4. Woodworking Joints: Thicker plywood allows for stronger joints, which is important in furniture making.
5. Screw Holding: Thicker plywood generally has better screw-holding capacity, important for attaching hardware.
6. Weight Considerations: Remember that thicker plywood is heavier, which can be a factor in large projects or wall-mounted items.

By considering these factors and recommendations, you can select the most appropriate plywood thickness for your project. Contact us or request a quote: we will help you make the best choice for your specific needs.