"Plywood" and "plywood" are the basic building materials that are frequently used in DIY renovations.There are many uses, such as reinforcing the base of the floor, making walls and partitions, and creating furniture such as shelves and tables.However, when you try to choose, you may find yourself worrying about things like, "I don't know which one to buy," or "I'm having trouble because there are so many similar names, such as computer panels and veneered plywood."

In this article, we will thoroughly explain everything from basic knowledge about plywood and plywood to how to choose one for each purpose, as well as information that will be useful in actual DIY situations.With plywood and plywood, which are full of charm, you can get large sizes, many of them are relatively inexpensive, and easy to use even for DIY beginners, aim for a comfortable renovation and renovation life.

Introduction

Plywood and plywood are widely used in DIY renovations as base materials, reinforcements, and finishing materials.Not only is it easy to obtain at home improvement stores or online shopping, but it also comes in a wide variety of sizes and thicknesses, and it meets a variety of needs, such as "want to flatten the floor," "build a wall," and "build your own furniture."

Although it is all called plywood or plywood, there are a wide variety of types, such as "Lawan plywood," "structural plywood," "companee," "OSB plywood," "MDF," and "veneered plywood."Because each product has different strengths, water resistance, and surface finish, if used incorrectly, problems such as "it warped quickly" or "it was sensitive to water and rotten."

In this article, we have carefully organized the types and characteristics of typical plywood and plywood, as well as the points to use in DIY scenes, and points to be careful about.If you are wondering, "Which board should I choose?" or if you are "want to know the basics of plywood," please take a look until the end.

What are plywood and plywood?

First, let's briefly organize the differences between plywood and plywood.Generally, "a thinly sliced ​​wood board that is pasted into multiple layers" is collectively called "plywood."On the other hand, in the past, "a board material made by pasting thin surface boards (veneer)" was called "veneer board," and it has often been used almost synonymously as "veneer board = plywood."

The key is that by crimping multiple layers in different fiber directions, the strength and stability that solid wood does not have.It is not easy to warp or crack and is easy to process, making it ideal for DIY purposes.Large size boards are available at a reasonable price, making them useful when you want to "finish a wide surface while keeping costs down."

Main types of plywood

1.Lauan Plywood

Features

• Made from a wood called Rawan (or Melanti), native to Southeast Asia.
• The price is relatively cheap
• The colour is light brown to reddish brown

Uses and uses

It can be used in a wide range of ways, including "shelf backboards," "interiors of furniture," and "floor and wall underlayment."It's easy to use even for beginners in DIY, and can be easily painted and stained.However, since it is not particularly water resistant or durable, you should be careful when using it in places with high humidity or places that are directly exposed to water.

Example situation

• "I want to create a simple wall that divides the room as a partition." It is reasonable to use Lauan plywood as a base material and apply cloth or paint from above.
• "I want to make a shelf for storing tools" If you don't need to finish the surface cleanly, Lauan plywood is enough.

2.Structural Plywood

Features

• Highly strong plywood that meets the standards under the Building Standards Act
• It has undergone strict checks from the perspective of earthquake resistance and wind resistance.
• It has a heavier and more rugged surface than regular plywood

Uses and uses

It is used for areas where strength is required, such as building frames, floor subfloors, and wall reinforcements.In DIY renovations, it is useful when you want to peel off a part of your home and reinforce it, or you want to increase the strength of your walls and install shelves.The surface is not very beautiful, so in many cases, separate boards or cloths are applied to finish.

Example situation

• "I want to drive screws firmly into the wall." Using structural plywood as a base for the wall makes it easier to hang large shelves or TVs on walls.
• "I want to reinforce the deflection of the floor" The common method is to lay structural plywood under the flooring to increase the load capacity.

3.Plywood for concrete formwork

Features

• Plywood is originally used as a formwork for pouring concrete.
• The surface is coated with a thin film or paint, and is processed to prevent peeling even when exposed to water or concrete.
• Because it is relatively inexpensive and has limited uses, it is often used in DIY as an easy-to-use building material.

Uses and uses

As the name suggests, it is often used as a formwork at construction sites, but in DIY, it is used in "padding materials that are easy to paint" and "where it is quite water resistant."Many of the cases have a smooth surface, and some cases are easier to finish than Lauan plywood or structural plywood.

Example situation

• "I want to use it on shelves around water, such as bathrooms and kitchens." It's not completely waterproof, but it's water resistant so it lasts longer than Lauan plywood.
• "A simple workbench for outdoor use (under the eaves or inside a garage, etc.)" Even if a little rain blows in, it's relatively safe if it's a computer panel.

4.OSB Plywood

Features

• Plywood made from long, thin chips made from wood (strands) to be compressed and solidified
• The irregular pattern on the tip is unique, making it a popular stylish interior
• It also has a structural grade OSB, which is very strong.

Uses and uses

It is useful for finishing the interior that makes use of its design.The surface is rough and the appeal is that you can enjoy the texture of the material.However, since the wood chips are exposed, if used around water, they must be protected with waterproof coating or clear coating.

Example situation

• "Store or cafe-style accent wall" The design that shows off the OSB look is popular.
• "Walls and work spaces in the garage" Even if there are some scratches or dirt, it can be used to create a taste, allowing you to combine practical and design.

5.MDF (medium-quality fiberboard)

Features

• A board made from finely made wood into fibrous shapes and mixed with resin to compressed molding.
• The surface is very smooth and the paint is well painted
• High density and homogeneous, making it highly machining accurate

Uses and uses

It is mainly used in situations where the focus is on processing details and painting finishing, such as furniture doors, small accessory interiors, and construction materials.There is no wood grain and a uniform finish, making it ideal for when you want to create a "clean, modern design."However, it is very sensitive to water and has a high risk of swelling if it gets wet.

Example situation

• "Indoor display shelves and door panels" Suitable for painting in paint.
• "Table tops that can be used only indoors" Regular care is required, such as wiping off coffee or water immediately if spilled.

6.Veneer Plywood

Features

• Beautiful wood grain veneer or decorative sheet is attached to the surface of the plywood board.
• It looks beautiful and doesn't require finishing, and can be used as is
• Some types are expensive, while others tend to have a scratchy surface.

Uses and uses

It is useful when you want to "respect the finishing touches while also taking care of the appearance of the surface."It is often used on shelves, fronts and doors of furniture.However, if the decorative surface peels off or scratched, it may be difficult to repair it, so be careful when handling it.

Example situation

• "I want to give my kitchen counters and furniture doors a luxurious look." Using veneered plywood with a beautiful wood grain finish will easily create a high-quality look.
• "The surface of your own closet doors and TV boards" You can save time by eliminating the painting.

7.Other (hardboard, water-resistant plywood, etc.)

The world of plywood and plywood is very deep, and there are many other types of plywood, including hardboards, water-resistant plywood, flame-retardant plywood, and melamine veneer.Make sure to consider the environment of the location you will be using and the necessary performance (water resistance, fire resistance, wear resistance, etc.) before choosing the most suitable one.

What board do you use in what situations?Thinking about different uses

1.If you want to use it around water

In places where there is a lot of water or humidity, such as "washroom shelves," "under the kitchen sink," or "toilet wall," it is safer to prioritize choosing highly water-resistant plywood.Plywood for concrete formworks is originally used in formworks that pour cement into them, so they have a certain level of water resistance.If you have enough money, you can also consider waterproof "water-resistant plywood."

However, in an environment where water is exposed to direct water, even plywood can deteriorate.It is also important to thoroughly apply waterproof coating and embalming on the surface to prevent water droplets from sticking to the surface for a long time.

2.If you want to use it as a wall or partition

If you are using plywood for walls or partitions, we recommend that it is "a thickness of about 12mm or more" and that can ensure a certain degree of rigidity.If you want to attach shelves to a wall or hang storage, you can also use structural plywood to create a solid base.

However, when using it as a partition, you should also be aware of the appearance of the surface.The plywood you choose will vary depending on whether you want to show Lauan plywood or OSB plywood as an interior decoration or wallpaper or painted.Match your own design, such as "Lauan plywood + paint finish" or "Deliberately show off OSB plywood."

3.Layering flooring and flooring

When renovating a floor, plywood may be laid to adjust the base if the existing floor is damaged or uneven.It is common to apply structural plywood or Lauan plywood (12mm to 15mm thick) as the base before applying new flooring.Even in cases where you may be concerned about the deflection of the floor or make a creak noise when walking, reinforcement with plywood base is effective.

If you are planning to prevent sound or insulate, glass wool or styrofoam may be laid under the base material.Plywood itself does not have that much soundproofing, so it's an idea to use it as a set of plywood + insulation.

4.If you want to make furniture or shelves

When making furniture, shelves, etc., it is also important to look beautiful and easy to process.

• The "displayed part" is made of beautifully finished boards such as veneered plywood and MDF.
• The "back and interior" use inexpensive Lauan plywood and computer panels to reduce costs.

These are popular ways to use them.When made from OSB plywood, it becomes a rugged "cafe-style" style furniture, so it's also interesting to choose one that matches your interior style.

Learn about plywood quality and JAS standards

When doing DIY or self-renovation, if you choose plywood because it's cheap or easy to get, unexpected problems may occur later.For example, differences in plywood quality have a major effect, such as "the warping is severe," "the screws don't work," and "the surface peeled off quickly."

This quality is guaranteed by the Japanese Agricultural Standard (JAS).There are also products with the JAS mark on plywood.If you choose plywood with JAS, you can guarantee a certain level of quality.That's what happens.

What is the JAS mark?

JAS (Japan Agriculture and Forestry Standards) is a quality and performance standard set by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and plywood is also evaluated for its strength, dimension stability, adhesive performance, and formaldehyde emission.Products that meet these criteria will have a "JAS mark" written on the surface and label of the plywood.

How to view and meaning of JAS grade

JAS plywood has a grade (grade) specified, with grades on both the front and back sides.For example, **F☆☆☆☆ (Four Star)** is also part of JAS, and is a grade related to formaldehyde emission.

① Grades on the front and back (alphabetical notation)

• Grade A: Grade with few knots and scratches, and can be used for finishing surfaces such as cosmetic materials.
• Grade B: slightly inferior to A, but relatively beautiful
• Grade C: There are many chips, knots, and repair marks, suitable for base material
• D grade: The roughest and used for structural backing.

Example: When "B/C" is displayed
→The front is B grade, the back is C grade

② Classification based on adhesive performance (water resistance)

• Special (water resistant): Suitable for outdoor, plumbing, and high humidity areas.
• Class 1 (Semi-water resistant): Can withstand some moisture indoors
• Class 2 (non-water resistant): For dry indoor use only

Especially when using in water, selecting "Special Class" or "Class 1" will make it easier to prevent warping, peeling, and mold growth.

③ Formaldehyde emission amount (sick house measures)

• F☆☆☆☆ (Four Star): The safest.No restrictions on indoor use
• F☆☆☆ or below: Limitations on the area and conditions used (especially when using a living space)

DIY interiors, especially the boards used in the living room, are used in the interior of the house.It's best to choose one that's F☆☆☆☆.This is a must for families with small children or pets.

Benefits of choosing JAS certified plywood

1. "Reliable strength"
   Not only is its thickness and structure, but it is also a product that has been tested in actual testing, so you can use it in the structure with confidence.
2. "There is no uneven finish"
   The degree of knots, chips, and unevenness on the surface is controlled by grade, making finishing work smooth.
3. "It's a measure to prevent sick houses"
   F☆☆☆☆☆ does not emit much formaldehyde and is safe indoors.
4. "It is less likely to warp or crack in the long term"
   Dimensional stability is also highly valued, giving you a different sense of security after renovation.

In what situations should you choose JAS plywood?

• "I want to use it as a structural component (walls, floor base, etc.)"
  →**Choose JAS certified structural plywood (B/C grade or above, special or class 1, F☆☆☆☆☆)**.
• "Use indoors, such as furniture and shelves."
  →Choose F☆☆☆☆ for veneer plywood or MDF..Special rooms are better than the best.
• "Build your own walls DIY"
  →The surface that appears on the surface is B grade or higher, and if it is indoors, it is OK to use a non-water-resistant F☆☆☆☆.
• Common "trouble points" and countermeasures when choosing plywood
  
  1.Size (Scale and Metric Modules)
  The problem
  The basic size of plywood sold at home improvement stores is **910mm x 1820mm (so-called 3x6shaku)**.However, recently there have been an increase in metric modules (1000mm x 2000mm), and if you're not used to using them, you may end up making the wrong dimensions...
  countermeasure
  Depending on the home or modules that are eligible for renovation,Check in advance which standard
  When using multiple pieces, be sure to check if the size is correct
  If you are purchasing online,Is it mm or length notation?Be sure to see
  
  2.Quality variations such as warping, distortion, cracking, etc.
  The problem
  The cheaper plywood, the more defects there are, such as "warping", "cracking edges", and "wavy."This is a major problem, especially when it comes to work that requires the accuracy of the structure and furniture.
  countermeasure
  The actual product at a home improvement storeCheck each one and choose(Look from the shelf and look at it from an angle)
  If possible, if you can match it with "the same lot" then there is less difference in warping.
  If you are buying online, it's safe to check whether it is possible to return it.
  
  3.I'm having trouble with how to transport and cut
  The problem
  Large sizes (3 x 6 shaku) cannot be carried without a light truck.There are also many problems such as not being able to enter the elevator in an apartment building or not being able to enter the house.Furthermore, it is difficult to cut accurately without tools.
  countermeasure
  Use the "cut service" from a home improvement store (high accuracy even if it is paid)
  Measure the size of the elevator and the width of the entrance
  Considering the size that will fit in your car, it is best to have a "cut plan" in advance.
  
  4.The finish on the surface was different than I imagined.
  The problem
  In many cases, the finish will become surprisingly dirty even when painted, such as roughness, uneven color, and knots made of Lauan plywood and structural plywood.It looked good in the photo, but some people say the actual product was cheap.
  countermeasure
  For visible parts, use "veneered plywood" or "Lawan plywood with sander surfaces."
  Stain + clear varnish finishWith such ingenuity, designs that make use of the texture of the material can also be made possible.
  The trick to a beautiful finish is to carefully apply a primer and paper finish before painting.
  
  5.Screws and nails do not work or break
  The problem
  With MDF and thin plywood, problems such as "the screws will break" and "the screws will become loose."
  countermeasure
  If you use screws,After drilling the drillEnter
  For boards with high fiber density such as MDF, special screws are used because they are difficult to work.
  Use it in conjunction with "adhesive" if necessary to increase strength
  
  6.Don't notice the weight of plywood
  The problem
  A surprising thing that is often forgotten is weight.For example, structural plywood (12mm thick, 3x6 shaku)10-12kg per pieceThis can also be difficult to carry by a woman alone.Working at high altitudes can lead to accidents.
  countermeasure
  The work isIt is generally done with two or more people
  Use "pulls", "trolleys", and "work horses" to prevent injury to your body during transportation or installation
  Make sure to attach a "mark" or "number" in advance to avoid making a mistake on the up, down, left and right sides.
  
  7.Prices fluctuate (especially for OSB and structural purposes)
  The problem
  The prices of building materials vary depending on the time of year, global situation, and import conditions.especiallyOSB plywood and structural plywoodIt is not uncommon for people to see prices at some times, while prices rise due to shortages at some times.
  countermeasure
  Compare prices for multiple home centers and online shopping
  Even if construction is planned for the first time,It's also a good idea to buy it when the price is low
  If the construction period is fixed,Early purchase + storage method ingenuity (prevents moisture by stacking it flat)
  
  8.It can also deform due to indoor humidity and air temperature.
  The problem
  Even though I made it perfectly, it was during the rainy season, midsummer and winter.Plywood expands and contracts to create gaps or floatsSometimes I do...
  countermeasure
  The golden rule for plywood is to "adjust to the humidity of the room before using it" (left for 1-2 days)
  Don't put too close,Designed to allow for a few mm of stretchable marginMake it
  With surface finishReduces the effects of moisture absorption and dryness (varnishings, paint, etc.)

Points and check items when choosing plywood

1. "Check the thickness"
   • For general DIY applications, a thickness of 6mm to 12mm is desirable, and a thickness of 12mm is desirable for areas where stress is applied, such as floor underfloors and wall reinforcements.
2. "Check for warping and distortion"
   • When purchasing from a home improvement store, try leaning the board up to make sure it doesn't warp significantly.
3. "Surface cleanliness"
   • Choose ones that do not show any noticeable scratches or stains as they affect the degree of perfection of the painting and finish.
4. "Water and weather resistant"
   • If you are using it around water or outdoors, priority is given to waterproof plywood, panels, and water-resistant plywood.
5. "Utilizing cutting services"
   • It's difficult to take out a board that's too large.It would be convenient to make good use of the cutting service at a home improvement store and have them cut to the required size.

Plywood processing methods and tips

Cutting and drilling

• Use different tools depending on the purpose and amount of work, such as "hand saws", "jigsaws", and "circular saws".
• A jigsaw is useful for cutting curves.If you want to cut a large amount of straight lines, circular saws and slide circular saws are efficient.
• Cut surfaces tend to be shattered, so use sanding (papering).

Painting and finishing

• Choose based on your purpose and preference, such as "water-based paint", "oil-based paint", "stain", "wax", and "varnish".
• Sanding or primer coating is used as a base treatment to make the coating more comfortable to apply.
• MDF and other surfaces are smooth and inhaled, and in many cases, a primer (sealer) is required.

Joining and assembly

• Choose appropriate fixing methods such as "wood screws", "nails", and "screws".
• The parts that you want to securely secure can also be used with "reinforcement fittings" and "L-shaped fittings."
• Using adhesive (woodworking bond) together will increase the bonding strength, but be careful not to let it spill out.

Safety measures and precautions

1. "Guaranteed work space"
   • Handling large plywood requires a large space.Check for dangerous objects or obstacles around it.
2. "Wearing protective equipment"
   • Wear a mask and glasses to prevent dust from being sucked in when cutting.Work gloves are also effective in preventing hand injuries.
3. "The correct way to use power tools"
   • Don't forget to replace the blades and check the safety cover for jigsaws and circular saws.
4. "Be careful not to get children or pets away"
   • To prevent injuries and misuse of tools during work, measures such as separating work areas are necessary.
5. "Handling of paints and solvents"
   • Ensure adequate ventilation and do not use thinner or oil-based paint in areas where fire is strictly prohibited.

Summary

Plywood and plywood are essential materials for DIY renovations and renovations, thanks to their advantages of being easy to use, a wide variety of options, and a relatively reasonable price.If you understand the type of plywood and choose the board that suits the location and purpose of use, you will be able to reinforce the floor, create walls, and create furniture.

• "Counter measures are taken with chemicals and water-resistant plywood around the water."
• "Structural plywood and OSB plywood are also useful for walls and partitions."
• "For furniture, use beautifully-looking veneered plywood and MDF that are easy to paint."

Finding the most suitable solution for your needs is the key to success.By thoroughly preparing the board for warping and distortion before work, and carefully painting and waterproofing, you can greatly reduce the number of problems that occur later.

"How much can I renovate or renovate my home in the first place? Where should I start?"Herefrom.If you would like to know more about the specific renovation process and construction,HerePlease also take a look at the page!

From beginners to experienced DIYers, please use plywood and plywood to enjoy creating a comfortable and attractive home.