How to Choose the Right Plywood for Your Home

Choosing the right plywood for your home is one of the most important decisions you will make during a renovation or new construction project. The type of plywood you select directly impacts the durability, longevity, and overall quality of your furniture and interiors. The first factor to consider is the area where the plywood will be used. For moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and balconies, BWP (Boiling Water Proof) plywood is essential. BWP plywood, also known as marine-grade plywood, is manufactured using phenol formaldehyde resin that can withstand prolonged exposure to water without delaminating. This type of plywood carries the IS 710 certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards. For bedrooms, living rooms, and other dry areas, MR (Moisture Resistant) plywood is a suitable and more affordable choice. MR plywood uses urea formaldehyde resin and carries IS 303 certification. While it can handle occasional moisture exposure, it is not designed for constant water contact. The thickness of the plywood matters significantly depending on its application. For main furniture carcasses like wardrobe sides, kitchen cabinets, and bed frames, 18mm or 19mm thickness is standard. For shelves and internal components, 12mm plywood works well. For back panels and drawer bottoms, 6mm or 8mm plywood is sufficient. Brand reputation plays a crucial role in ensuring quality. Established brands like Greenply, CenturyPly, Kitply, and SRG Ply maintain strict quality control and offer warranties on their products. Always look for the ISI mark and check the grade stamped on the plywood sheet. The grade marking on plywood tells you about its quality level. AA grade means both faces have the best veneer quality. AB grade has one premium face and one standard face. B grade is suitable for areas that will be covered by laminate or veneer. Finally, consider the core material. Hardwood core plywood offers better screw-holding strength and durability compared to softwood or poplar core variants. For furniture that needs to last decades, investing in hardwood core plywood from a reputed brand is always the wise choice. At Sri Krishna Plywood and Laminate, our experts can help you select the exact right plywood for every area of your home. Visit our store for personalized recommendations based on your project requirements and budget.