Shuttering Plywood Prices 2024: Types and Selection Guide

Shuttering plywood is a crucial material in construction, used primarily in formwork to shape and support concrete structures.

This guide covers essential information about shuttering plywood, including types, factors influencing prices, market trends, and tips for choosing the right product. It’s designed for individuals writing articles on this topic and professionals seeking the latest pricing and product insights.

What is Shuttering Plywood?

Shuttering plywood, also known as formwork plywood, is a high-density material used primarily in construction. It forms a mold into which concrete is poured to set into a specific shape. The plywood is a temporary structure supporting the concrete while it hardens and gains strength.

Key Features of Shuttering Plywood

Shuttering Plywood is known for its multiple features such as strength, durability, water resistance . Here we discussed them in detail

1. Strength and Durability

Designed to bear the immense weight and pressure of wet concrete. Often reinforced with high-density wood fibers or additional resin layers for maximum load-bearing capacity.

2. Water Resistance:

Coated with a phenolic film or resin, ensuring resistance to moisture, which is crucial for construction in humid or wet conditions. Maintains structural integrity even after multiple exposures to water.

3. Reusable:

Premium-quality shuttering plywood can withstand multiple uses, making it cost-effective for long-term projects. Proper maintenance (cleaning and recoating after each use) enhances its lifespan.

4. Smooth Finish:

The surface often has a smooth finish that minimizes the need for post-construction surface treatments, like plastering.

5. Dimensional Stability:

Engineered to resist warping, cracking, or shrinking under heavy loads or extreme weather.

Use Cases of Shuttering Plywood

Formwork for Concrete Beams and Slabs: Provides a sturdy base for pouring concrete beams, columns, and slabs.
Temporary Scaffolding: Often used to support structures during construction.
Structural Flooring: As a base for construction workers during various project stages.

Types of Shuttering Plywood

Different types of shuttering plywood are used in construction projects, depending on factors such as the scale of the project and environmental conditions. Here are the main types:

1. Film Faced Plywood

This type is coated with a high-density film of phenolic resin, which offers protection against moisture and wear. It’s ideal for projects where repeated use is required, as the film helps increase its lifespan.

Price Range: $25 to $45 per sheet (depending on thickness and size).
Best Used For: Multi-story buildings, large-scale infrastructure projects, bridges.

2. MR Grade (Moisture Resistant) Plywood

Though not entirely waterproof, MR-grade plywood resists moisture to a reasonable extent. It’s suitable for interior construction projects or areas that won’t be exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Price Range: ₹1,245 to ₹2,490. per sheet.
Best Used For : Temporary formwork, residential projects.

3. BWP (Boiling Water Proof) Plywood

As the name suggests, this type is fully waterproof and can withstand long-term exposure to water. It’s the most durable among all plywood types and is suitable for outdoor and large-scale projects.

Price Range: ₹2,490 to ₹4,980 per sheet.
Best Used For: Bridges, dams, marine structures, and high-rise buildings.

4. Hardwood Shuttering Plywood

Made from hardwood species, this type is known for its excellent strength and durability. It can handle heavy loads and is often used in projects where strength is critical.

Price Range: ₹2,905 to ₹5,810 per sheet.
Best Used For: Heavy-duty infrastructure, highways, airports.

Factors Affecting Shuttering Plywood Prices

Several factors influence the cost of shuttering plywood. Understanding these factors can help buyers and construction professionals make informed purchasing decisions.

1. Material Quality

The grade of plywood (MR, BWP, hardwood, etc.) significantly affects its price. Higher-grade plywood, which offers better water resistance and durability, costs more than lower-grade varieties.

2. Thickness and Size

Plywood sheets come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 12mm to 25mm. Thicker plywood is stronger and more durable but also more expensive. Additionally, larger sheet sizes increase the price.

3. Film Coating

Plywood that is film-faced (coated with phenolic resin) is more expensive than regular plywood due to the added protection against moisture and wear.

4. Location and Transportation Costs

Geographical location also affects plywood prices. Transportation costs, availability of raw materials, and local demand can cause price fluctuations in different regions.

5. Brand

Well-established brands may charge a premium for their products due to their reputation for quality and durability.

How to Choose the Right Shuttering Plywood?

Selecting the right shuttering plywood is critical to the success of your construction project. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:

1. Determine the Project’s Scope

Consider the size of the project and the environment where the plywood will be used. For example, if you’re working in a wet environment, opt for BWP plywood.

2. Consider the Budget

Determine how much you are willing to spend. If the project involves multiple uses of plywood, investing in film-faced or hardwood varieties may offer better value for money.

3. Check for Certifications

Ensure that the plywood meets industry standards such as IS 4990 for Indian standards or BS 5268 for British standards. Certified plywood ensures durability, safety, and environmental responsibility.

4. Choose the Appropriate Thickness

If the plywood will be supporting heavy loads, opt for a thicker sheet (18mm or 25mm). Thicker plywood offers better support and increases the lifespan of the formwork.

Conclusion

Shuttering plywood is vital for concrete formwork in construction. Understanding its types, uses, and pricing factors is key to making informed choices. This guide offers a 2024 overview of shuttering plywood prices, helping suppliers and construction professionals stay updated and select the best options for their needs and budgets.