What Plywood to Use for Shed Walls?

Choosing the right plywood for your shed walls ensures durability and weather resistance while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Here’s our guide to selecting the best plywood for shed construction.

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Best Plywood Options for Shed Walls

CDX Plywood

• Most popular and economical choice
• Standard thickness: 1/2″ (12mm)
• Good moisture resistance
• Ideal for exterior walls
• Meets basic construction requirements
• Most cost-effective solution

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Exterior Grade Plywood

• Enhanced water resistance
• Available in 1/2″ (12mm)
• Better durability than CDX
• Higher grade face options
• Excellent for humid climates
• Premium choice for longer lifespan

Check out our Exterior Plywood

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T1-11 Siding

• All-in-one siding and sheathing
• 5/8″ (16mm) thickness standard
• Grooved exterior face
• Ready to paint or stain
• Popular rustic appearance
• No additional siding needed

Recommended Thickness

Standard Requirements:

• Minimum: 3/8″ (9mm) for 16″ stud spacing
• Recommended: 1/2″ (12mm) for better durability
• Premium: 5/8″ (16mm) for maximum strength

How To Choose Plywood Thickness

Thickness by Application:

• Wall Sheathing: 1/2″ (12mm)
• Siding: 5/8″ (16mm)
• Interior Walls: 3/8″ (9mm)

Installation Guidelines

1. Preparation
   
   • Ensure studs are 16″ on center
   • Verify wall framing is square
   • Keep materials dry before installation
   • Plan panel layout
2. Installation Steps
   
   • Start at corners
   • Leave 1/8″ gap between panels
   • Use galvanized nails or screws
   • Install with long dimension vertical
   • Counter-sink fasteners slightly
3. Weather Protection
   
   • Apply water barrier if using standard sheathing
   • Flash around openings
   • Caulk joints and seams
   • Paint or seal exposed surfaces

Cost-Effective Options

Economy Choice:

• CDX Plywood
• 1/2″ (12mm) thickness
• Basic water barrier
• Paint or siding required

Mid-Range Choice:

• Exterior Grade Plywood
• 1/2″ (12mm) thickness
• Better moisture resistance
• Longer lifespan

Premium Choice:

• T1-11 Siding
• 5/8″ (16mm) thickness
• No additional siding needed
• Built-in weather resistance

Our Recommendations

For Basic Storage Sheds:

• CDX Plywood 1/2″ (12mm)
• Standard fastening schedule
• Basic weather protection
• Paint or siding for weather protection

For Workshop Sheds:

• Exterior Grade Plywood 1/2″ (12mm)
• Enhanced fastening schedule
• Premium weather barrier
• Better insulation options

For Visible Garden Sheds:

• T1-11 Siding 5/8″ (16mm)
• Decorative appearance
• Ready to finish
• Built-in weather protection

Additional Tips

1. Material Storage:
   
   • Store flat and covered
   • Keep off ground
   • Allow air circulation
   • Use in dry weather
2. Fasteners:
   
   • 8d galvanized nails or
   • 2″ exterior screws
   • 6″ spacing on edges
   • 12″ spacing in field
3. Finishing:
   
   • Prime all surfaces
   • Paint or stain promptly
   • Seal all edges
   • Regular maintenance

What Plywood to Use for Shed Floor?

What Plywood to Use for Shed Roof?

Visit our store to view our complete selection of shed-appropriate plywood and discuss your specific project requirements with our experienced staff.