Plywood is made out of multiple layers of wood veneer, sandwiched together into a solid piece. It comes in varying thicknesses and different grades, so it’s easy to find one that suits your application. Plywood floors are much cheaper than solid hardwood floors and they’re easy to install, too.
Whether you’re transforming a room, an office or an entire home, plywood may be right for you. To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the pros and cons of plywood flooring.
Advantages of Plywood Flooring
Durable for Any Environment
Because it is engineered with many layers, plywood flooring is strong, stable and durable. You can use it in both hot and cold weather conditions, making it perfect for New Zealand’s range of cool and warm climates.
Unlike medium density fibreboard (another engineered material), plywood doesn’t soak up water quickly, making it less prone to water damage.
Easy to Work with
Plywood can be secured with a range of glues, screws and nails. It can also be stained and painted in a range of beautiful designs. If you want an impressive looking floor on a budget, plywood is the way to go.
Affordable
Speaking of budgeting, plywood is affordable. With plywood flooring, you can remodel your home without having to worry about huge expenses.
Disadvantages of Plywood Flooring
Comparisons to Hardwood
While it has many positive qualities, plywood will never match up to the hardwood alternative. Plywood is less durable than hardwood and while you can paint it to improve its aesthetic, plywood won’t look as grand as premium hardwood floors.
Plywood is also far less likely to increase the value of your home when compared to hardwood flooring.
Other Considerations
Plywood tends to splinter, making it difficult to cut designs into your floor. You may also have to use timber or decorative mouldings to cover up the layers that are visible along the edges of your floor.
While it has some water-resistant qualities, moisture will still weaken a plywood floor. If you plan on using plywood outdoors, you’ll have to buy exterior-glued plywood.
Should You Choose a Plywood Floor?
If you’re using plywood as finished flooring, make sure you buy a species made out of cherry oak or walnut as these varieties will last longer.
Plywood is ideal when money is a constraint or if you love working on DIY projects. When you choose plywood, you don’t need to hire the experts, saving money on both your flooring and the installation.
Building Supplies in Auckland
Thinking of remodelling your home with plywood? Get in touch with the professionals at Woodmart. We have an extensive range of hardware and timber supplies available. With years of experience in the timber industry, we can help you find the best product for your project. Whether you need decking supplies or fencing timber, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We strive to bring you the latest timber products for all your needs. From fastenings and fixings to retaining timber, we have it all under our roof.
Call us on 09 525 6293 to get a quote on plywood, hardwood or retaining materials in Auckland. Alternatively, visit us online to request a quote.
