When constructing or renovating exterior walls, one critical decision is choosing the best plywood for exterior walls. This material acts as a shield, protecting your building from the elements while adding structural integrity.
But not all plywood is created equal, especially when it comes to outdoor use. Selecting the right type of plywood for your project ensures longevity, strength, and protection from weather damage. Let’s explore the different kinds of plywood, factors to consider, and the best plywood for outside walls.
What Kind Of Plywood Is Used For Exterior Walls?
Plywood comes in various grades and types, but for outdoor applications like exterior walls, choosing plywood that resists moisture and weathering is essential. The most common types of plywood used for this purpose are exterior plywood and structural plywood.
Exterior plywood, often marked as “CDX,” is specifically designed to withstand the elements. It’s made with a waterproof adhesive that holds the layers together, preventing delamination in wet conditions. This type of plywood is commonly used in wall sheathing and construction.
Structural plywood, on the other hand, is ideal for exterior wall sheathing. It has enhanced durability and strength, making it perfect for load-bearing walls and structural support.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Plywood For Exterior Walls
When deciding on the best plywood for exterior walls, several factors need consideration:
- Thickness: Thicker plywood provides more stability and insulation for exterior walls. Typically, a 3/8-inch to 3/4-inch thickness is suitable for most exterior wall applications.
- Weather Resistance: Since exterior walls are exposed to rain, wind, and sunlight, choose plywood designed for moisture resistance, such as pressure-treated plywood or marine-grade plywood.
- Durability: Exterior plywood should be able to withstand heavy usage and environmental stress. Look for options treated with chemicals to prevent decay and insect damage.
- Cost: While higher-quality plywood like marine grade can be expensive, it’s a worthy investment for areas exposed to extreme weather conditions. If budget constraints exist, CDX plywood provides good protection at a lower cost.
Best Plywood For Exterior Wall Sheathing
The sheathing is crucial to creating strong exterior walls, and the best plywood for exterior wall sheathing is typically a combination of thickness, strength, and resistance to the elements.
For wall sheathing, many builders prefer CDX plywood. This plywood is an exterior-grade material with a solid core that can resist moisture but is also cost-effective.
Additionally, plywood marked as “Structural 1” has superior strength and is ideal for wall sheathing in areas prone to heavy winds or seismic activity. Choosing thicker plywood for sheathing can also improve the insulation of your walls, keeping your home more energy-efficient.
Best Plywood For Outdoor Shed Walls
Outdoor sheds face constant exposure to the weather, which makes choosing the right plywood critical. The best plywood for outdoor shed walls should resist moisture and decay to maintain the integrity of the structure over time. Pressure-treated plywood or marine-grade plywood works exceptionally well for outdoor shed walls.
- Pressure-treated plywood: Treated with chemicals to resist rot, mildew, and insects, pressure-treated plywood is an excellent choice for outdoor sheds. It can handle direct contact with the ground and withstand prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Marine-grade plywood: Known for its superior water resistance, marine-grade plywood is a premium option for outdoor applications. While it’s more expensive, it’s ideal for sheds in areas with heavy rainfall or humidity.
What Type Of Plywood Is Used For Exterior Walls?
Several types of plywood can be used for exterior walls, but the most common ones include:
- CDX Plywood: This is the most widely used plywood for exterior walls. It’s affordable and designed to withstand moisture to a certain extent. However, it’s not waterproof, so it requires proper sealing and protection.
- T1-11 Plywood: Commonly used for siding, T1-11 has a textured surface that gives a rustic look to exterior walls. It also has weather-resistant properties when sealed correctly, making it a popular choice for exterior cladding.
- Marine-grade Plywood: For walls exposed to constant moisture or areas near water bodies, marine-grade plywood is the best choice. It’s constructed with waterproof adhesive and higher-quality wood, making it incredibly durable.
Can You Use Plywood For Exterior Walls?
Absolutely! Plywood is not only a viable option but also one of the most popular materials for exterior walls due to its versatility and strength.
Its ability to provide structural support and resist weather damage makes it a preferred choice for residential and commercial buildings alike. When installed correctly and treated for weather protection, plywood can last for decades.
However, you need to ensure that you choose the best plywood for outside walls based on your specific requirements, such as climate, exposure to moisture, and structural needs.
Best Plywood For The Outside Of A House
For the outside of a house, you’ll want to ensure that your plywood offers long-lasting durability and resistance to environmental factors.
The best plywood for the outside of a house often includes pressure-treated or marine-grade plywood. Both types are known for their water resistance, which prevents warping, rot, and structural damage.
If you’re looking for a balance between cost and performance, CDX plywood with a good sealant is an excellent choice for siding or sheathing.
Type Of Plywood For Exterior Wall Cladding
Exterior wall cladding plays a vital role in protecting the building while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. When choosing the type of plywood for exterior wall cladding, opt for plywood that has both structural integrity and weather-resistant properties.
T1-11 plywood is a common choice for cladding because of its durability and decorative surface. When installed and treated properly, it can last for many years and withstand extreme weather conditions.
Best Plywood For Interiors
While our focus has been on exterior walls, it’s worth noting that plywood is also widely used in interior applications. The best plywood for interiors includes cabinet-grade plywood, which is smooth, lightweight, and easy to paint or stain.
This type of plywood is ideal for furniture, cabinetry, and paneling, providing a beautiful finish with excellent strength.
Advantages Of Using Plywood For Exterior Walls
Plywood has numerous advantages when it comes to exterior wall construction:
- Cost-effective: Compared to other materials like metal or fiber cement, plywood is relatively affordable and provides great value for money.
- Durability: With the right treatment, plywood can withstand moisture, pests, and decay, making it ideal for long-term outdoor use.
- Versatility: Plywood can be used for sheathing, cladding, and even siding, giving you multiple options for your exterior walls.
- Strength: It provides excellent structural support, particularly for load-bearing walls.
- Ease of Installation: Plywood is lightweight and easy to cut, making it a preferred material for DIY projects and professional builds alike.
What Kind Of Plywood Is Used For Exterior Walls?
Exterior-grade plywood like CDX or marine-grade plywood is commonly used for exterior walls. These types are built to resist moisture and provide structural integrity.
Can You Use Plywood For Exterior Walls?
Yes, plywood is widely used for exterior walls. It’s durable, versatile, and can be treated to resist weather conditions.
What Type Of Plywood Is Used For Exterior Walls?
CDX plywood and marine-grade plywood are two of the most popular choices for exterior walls due to their strength and moisture resistance.
What Is The Best Plywood For Outdoor Shed Walls?
Pressure-treated plywood and marine-grade plywood are the best options for outdoor shed walls, as they resist rot and water damage.
What Kind Of Plywood For The Outside Of A House?
For the outside of a house, pressure-treated or CDX plywood is ideal. If you need extra water resistance, marine-grade plywood is recommended.
What Is The Best Plywood For Interior Walls?
Cabinet-grade plywood is often used for interior walls and furniture. It has a smooth finish, making it easy to paint and stain.
Conclusion
Choosing the best plywood for exterior walls involves considering factors like moisture resistance, durability, and structural requirements. For most applications, CDX plywood is a cost-effective choice, while marine-grade plywood offers superior protection against water damage.
Whether you’re working on exterior sheathing, cladding, or building an outdoor shed, selecting the right plywood ensures that your project stands up to the test of time and the elements. Always consider the specific conditions of your location and the purpose of the structure to make the most informed decision.