When working on interior design projects at home, choosing the right plywood is crucial. Plywood is versatile, affordable, and comes in various types suited to different applications, such as furniture, wall paneling, and cabinetry.

Understanding the different plywood types can help you make the best choice for your specific needs, whether you’re designing wardrobes, cabinets, or wall features. Below, we explore seven popular plywood types commonly used in home interiors.

1. Commercial Plywood

Overview:

Commercial plywood is one of the most commonly used plywood types for general interior applications. It’s made by bonding thin layers of wood veneer, with alternating grain directions for enhanced strength. This type of plywood is ideal for light-duty applications.

Applications:

Commercial plywood is great for projects like plywood for wardrobes, basic furniture, and plywood for wall paneling. It’s a good choice for areas that don’t need heavy-duty moisture resistance.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Easy to cut and work with
• Ideal for plywood for interior walls and furniture

Cons:

• Not as durable as other types
• Less moisture-resistant, so not ideal for kitchens or bathrooms

2. BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) Plywood

Overview:

BWR plywood is specifically designed to withstand exposure to moisture. The adhesive used is water-resistant, making it perfect for areas where the material might be exposed to water or high humidity. It’s a step up from regular plywood in terms of durability and moisture resistance.

Applications:

BWR plywood is perfect for plywood for kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, or any area where moisture levels are high. It’s also a good choice for plywood for wardrobes that might experience humidity changes.

Pros:

• Water-resistant and durable
• Suitable for plywood for kitchen cabinets and other moisture-prone areas
• Long-lasting performance in humid environments

Cons:

• More expensive than commercial plywood
• Requires more care in handling due to its sturdiness

3. MR (Moisture Resistant) Plywood

Overview:

MR plywood is treated to resist moisture but is not as resistant as BWR plywood. It uses a special adhesive to prevent swelling and warping when exposed to humidity, making it ideal for indoor environments.

Applications:

MR plywood is often used for plywood for furniture, wardrobes, and general-purpose interior work. It’s a cost-effective option for areas like living rooms and bedrooms where moisture exposure is limited.

Pros:

• Affordable and moisture-resistant
• Ideal for general interior furniture and plywood for wardrobes
• Can handle moderate humidity in homes

Cons:

• Not suitable for high-moisture areas like kitchens or bathrooms
• Not as durable as BWR or Marine plywood

4. Marine Plywood

Overview:

Marine plywood is one of the best plywood types when it comes to moisture resistance. It is made using high-quality wood veneers and durable adhesives that can withstand harsh conditions, including constant exposure to water.

Applications:

Although primarily used in boat building, marine plywood can be a good choice for areas with high water exposure, such as plywood for kitchen cabinets or outdoor furniture. It’s also great for any plywood for wall paneling in damp areas like basements.

Pros:

• Extremely resistant to moisture and water
• Durable and strong, great for heavy-duty applications
• Long-lasting even in wet conditions

Cons:

• Expensive
• Overkill for most typical indoor applications

5. Veneer Core Plywood

Overview:

Veneer core plywood is a high-quality plywood with a thin veneer covering a solid core. This type is known for its smooth surface and aesthetic appeal, making it ideal for decorative applications. It’s often used in high-end furniture and cabinetry.

Applications:

Veneer core plywood is often used for best plywood for furniture and projects where appearance is just as important as strength. It’s perfect for creating polished furniture, cabinetry, and plywood for interior walls that require a smooth finish.

Pros:

• Smooth surface, ideal for finishing
• High-quality appearance for furniture and cabinetry
• Strong and durable

Cons:

• More expensive than commercial plywood
• May not be as moisture-resistant as other types

6. Flexi Plywood

Overview:

Flexi plywood is specifically designed to be flexible and can bend without breaking. It’s a thinner, more lightweight option that’s great for creating curved shapes or designs that require a high level of flexibility.

Applications:

Flexi plywood is commonly used for curved furniture, custom wall features, and unique architectural designs. It’s perfect for creating plywood for wall paneling with curves or unique forms, or for projects requiring lightweight yet durable plywood.

Pros:

• Highly flexible and easy to bend
• Great for custom, curved designs
• Lightweight but still strong enough for most projects

Cons:

• Not as strong as thicker plywood options
• Can be difficult to handle for larger projects

7. Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL)

Overview:

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is an engineered wood product made by bonding thin layers of veneer together with adhesives. It’s often used in structural applications due to its high strength, but it can also be used for interior design purposes.

Applications:

LVL is commonly used for plywood for furniture that needs to bear heavy loads, as well as for structural elements like beams. It can also be used for plywood for wall paneling in areas where additional strength is needed, or for large, custom pieces of furniture.

Pros:

• Extremely strong and durable
• Ideal for heavy-duty applications and structural elements
• Resistant to warping and splitting

Cons:

• Heavier and thicker than regular plywood
• More expensive than other types of plywood

Bottom Line

Choosing the right plywood for furniture, cabinetry, or wall applications can significantly impact the final result of your project. Whether you need moisture resistance for plywood for kitchen cabinets or a smooth, aesthetic surface for plywood for interior walls, the type of plywood you select should match your specific needs.

Commercial plywood is a budget-friendly choice for basic projects, while BWR plywood is ideal for areas with high moisture exposure. For more durable and visually appealing projects, marine plywood and veneer core plywood are excellent options. And if you’re looking to add a creative touch, flexi plywood is great for curved designs and unique shapes.