20 Plywood Types and Grades You Must Know for Interiors & Exteriors

Introduction to Plywood

When it comes to home interiors or outdoor projects, plywood is one of those materials that sneaks into almost everything—be it cabinets, wardrobes, doors, furniture, or roofing. But here’s the catch: not all plywood is created equal. From waterproof varieties to flexible sheets that can bend around curves, plywood has an entire universe of types and grades.

So, if you’ve ever scratched your head at the hardware store, wondering which sheet to buy, this guide is your ultimate lifesaver. Let’s explore the 20 plywood types and grades you must know for interiors and exteriors.

Why Plywood is a Popular Choice

Plywood is loved by carpenters, architects, and homeowners alike—and for good reason:

It’s stronger than plain wood boards.
Resistant to warping or cracking.
Cost-effective compared to solid wood.
Available in multiple thicknesses and grades.

In short, plywood is like the Swiss Army knife of construction materials.

Plywood Types for Interiors

1. Commercial MR Grade Plywood

MR stands for Moisture Resistant. This type is widely used in furniture and cabinets where humidity levels are low. Think of it as the everyday workhorse for indoor projects.

2. Moisture Resistant Plywood

A step up from MR grade, it can withstand minor moisture exposure—perfect for wardrobes, study tables, or wall paneling in dry zones.

3. Boiling Water Resistant (BWR) Plywood

BWR is a common choice for kitchens. As the name suggests, it resists water better than MR plywood, making it safe for places with moderate water exposure.

4. Boiling Water Proof (BWP) Plywood

This is the king of water resistance. Ideal for bathroom cabinets, kitchen furniture, or even balcony storage units where water contact is unavoidable.

5. Flexible or Bendable Plywood

Got a curved design in mind? Flexible plywood bends without breaking. Designers love it for making stylish furniture and rounded corners.

6. Veneer Core Plywood

Made by stacking thin layers of hardwood or softwood veneer, this type is light yet sturdy. Best for interiors that need strength without too much weight.

7. Particle Board Plywood

Though not as strong as others, it’s cheap and suitable for low-cost interiors. Often used in temporary furniture or rental homes.

8. Decorative Plywood

This one’s all about looks. With fancy veneers and surface finishes, decorative plywood is used for wall cladding, furniture facades, and designer interiors.

Plywood Types for Exteriors

9. Marine Plywood

Marine plywood is the gold standard for outdoor use. It resists water, humidity, and fungal attacks—ideal for boats, decks, and outdoor furniture.

10. Weather-Resistant Plywood

Designed to fight against sun, rain, and temperature changes, this is the go-to choice for exterior walls and roofing.

11. Fire-Resistant Plywood

Made with special fire-retardant chemicals, this plywood slows down fire spread, making it perfect for kitchens, auditoriums, and public spaces.

12. Structural Plywood

This is heavy-duty plywood used for load-bearing purposes, like beams, flooring, and roofing. If strength is the priority, structural plywood is the answer.

13. Shuttering Plywood

Used in concrete formwork, shuttering plywood is strong, reusable, and designed for construction projects.

14. Hardwood Plywood

As the name suggests, it’s made from hardwood species like oak, maple, or birch. Strong, durable, and excellent for outdoor structures.

Specialty Plywood Types

15. Softwood Plywood

Made from pine, cedar, or spruce, softwood plywood is affordable and commonly used in packing and construction.

16. Tropical Plywood

Imported from Asia and Africa, tropical plywood is dense and durable, often used in construction projects worldwide.

17. Aircraft Plywood

One of the strongest yet lightest types, aircraft plywood is used in—you guessed it—airplanes! But it’s also used in cars and musical instruments.

18. Laminated Plywood

Here, multiple thin sheets are glued together with resin. It’s super strong and resists impact, making it useful in industrial projects.

19. Blockboard Plywood

Made with softwood strips sandwiched between veneers, blockboard is perfect for making long tables, doors, and shelves that won’t sag.

20. Eco-Friendly/Green Plywood

The modern choice—made with eco-friendly adhesives and sustainable wood. Great for conscious homeowners who care about both interiors and the environment.

Plywood Grades Explained

Not all plywood sheets are equal in quality. That’s where grades come in.

Grade A Plywood

The smoothest, best quality with no knots. Perfect for interiors where finishing matters.

Grade B Plywood

Almost as good as Grade A but may have tiny knots. Common for furniture.

Grade C Plywood

More visible flaws. Best for hidden structures like subfloors.

Grade D Plywood

The lowest grade—rough with big knots. Usually used for temporary construction.

How to Choose the Right Plywood

For Interiors

Pick MR, BWR, or decorative plywood.
Go for Grade A or B for visible furniture.

For Exteriors

Marine, weather-resistant, or fire-resistant plywood is best.
Always ensure it’s treated for durability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing interior plywood for outdoor projects.
Ignoring grades when quality matters.
Skipping waterproofing in kitchens and bathrooms.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Plywood

Keep surfaces clean and dry.
Apply laminates or paints for extra protection.
Avoid direct sunlight exposure indoors.

Conclusion

Plywood might look like just another board in the hardware store, but its world is vast. From marine plywood for exteriors to decorative plywood for interiors, every type serves a unique purpose. Add grades into the mix, and suddenly, choosing the right sheet becomes both an art and a science.

So next time you’re planning a project, remember—your plywood choice can make or break it.

FAQs

Q1: Which plywood is best for kitchen cabinets?
BWR or BWP plywood is ideal since it can handle moisture and heat.

Q2: Can I use MR plywood in bathrooms?
No, MR plywood isn’t waterproof. Always use BWP or marine plywood for bathrooms.

Q3: What’s the difference between blockboard and plywood?
Blockboard uses wooden strips inside, while plywood is made of thin veneers stacked together.

Q4: Is marine plywood really waterproof?
Yes, it’s designed to resist boiling water and is the best for outdoor projects.

Q5: How do I identify plywood grades?
Look at the surface: Grade A is flawless, while lower grades have visible knots and cracks.

Contact Us – Virgin Wood Enterprises
Looking for guidance on Twenty Plywood Types and Grades for Interior and Exterior Use? We’re here to help you pick the perfect plywood for your interior or exterior projects.

Address: 23-KM Ferozpur Road, Near Total Petrol Pump, Lahore, Pakistan
Phone: +92 33 111 49 789
Landline: +92 42 352 70 789
Email: info@virginwoodply.com
Website: www.virginwoodply.com