Plywood for Cabinets: A Complete Breakdown of Types and Uses

Selecting the plywood for cabinets should be aesthetical, durable, and selecting the right type is very crucial. Plywood is a versatile material, offering a range of options that cater to different needs, whether it’s for kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, or bathroom vanities. This guide will walk you through the various types of plywood suitable for cabinetry, ensuring you make an informed decision.

What is Plywood?

Plywood is an engineered wood product created by bonding together multiple layers of thin wood sheets. These layers are arranged with the grain of each veneer perpendicular to the next, creating a strong, stable, and durable sheet. Plywood is preferred for cabinets due to its resistance to warping and its ability to hold screws and nails better than solid wood.

Types of Plywood Based on Wood Type

Selecting the right plywood involves knowing the wood types. Each type—hardwood or softwood—affects strength and look. Here’s a brief overview to help you choose the best plywood for your project. Softwood Plywood

Softwood plywood is made from softwood trees like pine, fir, or spruce. It’s generally used for structural purposes, but it can also be used for cabinetry, especially in areas where strength is more important than appearance.

• Pros: Affordable, strong, and easy to work with.
• Cons: Not as smooth or attractive as hardwood plywood.

Hardwood Plywood

Hardwood plywood is made from hardwood species like oak, maple, or birch. It is known for its strength, durability, and fine finish, making it ideal for cabinets that require a high-quality appearance.

• Pros: Smooth surface, aesthetically pleasing, durable.
• Cons: More expensive than softwood plywood.

Types of Plywood Based on Application

Selecting the right plywood is key to any project. This guide will help you choose the best type for your specific needs, whether for construction or decoration.

MR Grade Plywood (Moisture Resistant)

MR-grade plywood is also known as commercial plywood. It is suitable for indoor use, particularly in dry areas. This type of plywood is commonly used for furniture, including cabinets, where moisture exposure is minimal.

• Pros: Economical, easily available.
• Cons: Not suitable for areas with high moisture levels.

BWR Grade Plywood (Boiling Water Resistant)

BWR Grade plywood is treated to withstand moisture, making it an excellent choice for kitchen and bathroom cabinets. It resists water better than MR-grade plywood, ensuring longevity in humid environments.

• Pros: Water-resistant, durable.
• Cons: Slightly more expensive than MR Grade plywood.

Marine Plywood

Marine plywood is the highest grade of plywood, designed to withstand constant exposure to water. Although it’s typically used for shipbuilding, it’s also an excellent choice for cabinets in areas with high humidity or frequent exposure to water, like kitchens and bathrooms.

• Pros: Extremely durable, water-resistant, and long-lasting.
• Cons: Expensive.

Plywood Grades

Plywood is categorized according to its appearance and quality, with grading systems ranging from A to D, where A represents the highest quality.

A-Grade Plywood

A-grade plywood has a smooth, sanded surface with minimal defects. It’s perfect for cabinets where the plywood will be visible and you want a flawless finish.

• Pros: High-quality finish, minimal defects.
• Cons: Expensive.

B-Grade Plywood

B-grade plywood has a smooth surface but may have some minor defects like knots. It’s a good choice for cabinets that will be painted or stained.

• Pros: Good quality, fewer defects.
• Cons: Slightly cheaper than A-Grade but still relatively expensive.

C-Grade and D-Grade Plywood

These grades have more noticeable defects and are typically used for structural purposes rather than cabinetry. However, they can be used for the interior parts of cabinets where appearance is not a primary concern.

• Pros: Affordable, functional.
• Cons: Lower quality, more defects.

Plywood Sizes for Cabinets

Plywood is available in various sizes, but the standard size is 4×8 feet. The thickness of plywood sheets also varies, with ½ inch and ¾ inch being common choices for cabinets. Thicker plywood provides more strength and is ideal for cabinet construction.

• Common Sizes: 4×8 feet, 2×4 feet.
• Common Thickness: ½ inch, ¾ inch.

Plywood Finishes

Plywood can be finished with various materials to enhance its appearance and durability. Popular finishes for plywood include laminate, veneer, and paint.

Laminate Finish

Laminate is a popular finish for plywood, especially for kitchen cabinets. It’s easy to clean, available in various colors and patterns, and provides a sleek, modern look.

Veneer Finish

Veneer is a thin layer of real wood applied to the surface of plywood. It gives the appearance of solid wood at a fraction of the cost, making it a great option for cabinets.

Best Plywood for Kitchen Cabinets

For kitchen cabinets, BWR Grade plywood is the best option due to its water-resistant properties. If budget permits, marine plywood is an even better choice for its superior durability.

Best Plywood for Bathroom Cabinets

In bathrooms, where moisture is a significant concern, marine plywood is the ideal choice. It ensures the cabinets last longer without warping or deteriorating.

Best Plywood for Wardrobes

Wardrobes typically require a smooth finish and durability. Hardwood plywood with a veneer finish is a popular choice for wardrobes, providing both strength and an appealing appearance.

Plywood vs. MDF for Cabinets

While plywood is a strong and durable option for cabinets, MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) is another alternative. MDF is smoother and easier to paint but doesn’t hold screws as well as plywood.

• Plywood: Stronger, more durable, better for structural uses.
• MDF: Smoother finish, better for painting, less durable.

Conclusion

Selecting the right type of plywood for your cabinets is essential to ensure they are durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you’re choosing plywood for a kitchen, bathroom, or wardrobe, understanding the different types, grades, and finishes will help you make the best decision for your cabinetry needs.