Panel & Plywood
About Plywood
Plywood is a product made up of numerous thin strips of wood, known as veneers. These veneer sheets are layered on top of each other, with the grain of each alternating sheet running in opposing directions. They are then bonded with glue to form a plywood sheet. This construction method creates a very strong and versatile man-made timber material that is less susceptible to expansion and shrinkage.
The majority of plywood is made from an odd number of layers, called plies, typically 3, 5, or 7, with an equal number of plies on each side of the center ply.
One side of the plywood sheet is known as the “face,” which is usually the side seen in most applications and is generally of superior quality. The other side is known as the “back” and may be rougher or less appealing. However, you can also purchase plywood with two good sides for applications where both sides will be visible.
General Information
Plywood is available in various lengths, widths, and thicknesses. Standard dimensions for length are typically 1800mm, 2400mm, and 2700mm, while the width is generally 1200mm. Sizing can be in either imperial (e.g., 2440mm) or metric (e.g., 2400mm) measurements.
Thicknesses range from 3mm to 28mm, with options such as 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 7mm, 9mm, 12mm, 15mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 25mm, and 28mm. It’s important to note that thicknesses may vary between different manufacturers and products.
When specifying plywood, the following information should be supplied:
- Dimensions
- Type of Plywood
- Structural Rating (where required)
- Veneer Grade
- Glue Bond
- Treated or Untreated
Glue Bonds
Plywood is manufactured with different types of glue bonds, categorized by their durability. Here are the four main types, listed in decreasing order of durability:
Type A: This bond is made from a phenol formaldehyde resin, which sets permanently under controlled heat and pressure. Type A provides a permanent bond that remains unaffected by heat, cold, or wet conditions. It is primarily used for marine plywood, structural plywood, and exterior plywood that will be exposed to long-term wet or damp conditions.
Type B: Produced from melamine fortified urea formaldehyde resin (MUF), Type B sets under controlled heat and pressure. It is suitable for plywood intended for up to two years of full exposure to weather, such as in formwork plywood or exterior doorskins.
Types C & D: These are produced from urea formaldehyde resin (UF) and set under controlled heat and pressure. They are interior bonds and are not recommended for use in exterior conditions. Even for interior purposes, Types C and D should not be used for structural applications. For areas such as around sinks, vanities, and laundry tubs, Type A bonded plywood is recommended.
Veneer Grades
There are four main veneer qualities specified for plywood and these are:
Grade A
A high quality appearance grade veneer suitable for clear finishing.
Applications
Textured exterior cladding Interior wall lining Interior ceiling lining Furniture & joinery
Grade B
An appearance grade suitable for high quality paint finishing.
Applications
Furniture & joinery Concrete formwork Primary sheathing Signs Engineered components
Grade C
A non-appearance grade with a solid surface. All imperfections such as knot holes or splits are filled.
Applications
Concrete formwork Gussets Roof decking Flooring Sub sheathing Bins, boxes & crates Stressed skin panels Hoardings
Grade D
A non-appearance grade with permitted open imperfections. Limited number of knots and knot holes up to 75mm wide are permitted.
Applications
Structural components Beams & portals Roofing Bracing Utility buildings
Stress Grades
Each stress grade is equally satisfactory for use in structural applications. The higher the stress grade, the thinner the plywood requirement will be to perform the same structural function.
The following table is a guide to the thicknesses and stress grades required for typical applications:
| Application | Thicknesses | Stress Grade |
| Lining panels | 3 – 15 | N/A |
| Residential flooring | 13, 15, 17 | F11, F14 |
| Industrial flooring | 17 – 25+ | F11 – F22 |
| Diaphragms | 9 – 15 | F11, F14 |
| Bracing (shearwalls) | 3 – 15 | F11, F14, F27 |
| Box beams | 7 – 12 | F11, F14 |
| Portal frame gussets | 12 – 25 | F11, F14 |
ACQ
Ammoniacal Copper Quaternary – ACQ is a water based preservative that prevents decay from fungi and insects
- Used with veneers
- 100% take-up
Envelope – LOSP / CCA
- Not 100%
- Cut edges have to be chemically re-treated
| Level | Application | Type | Against | Process |
| H2 | Above Ground | Perigen | Termite | Veneer 100% |
| H3 | Above Ground | Ruply / AQ | Anti-Rot / Termite | Veneer 100% |
| H3 | Above Ground | LOSP / CCA | Anti-Rot / Termite | Envelope |
| H4 | Ground Contact | CCA / ACQ | Anti-Rot / Termite | Envelope |
| H5 | In Ground Contact | CCA | Anti-Rot / Termite | Envelope |
Perforation and Laser Cutting
Many panel products can be perforated with either holes or slots to enhance their sound attenuation properties. These perforated panels find applications in various settings where sound control is important, such as internal ceiling and wall linings in schools, public halls, gymnasiums, offices, and commercial premises. Decorative timber veneers are commonly used for perforated panels, offering both functionality and aesthetics.
Standard ranges of hole sizes and patterns are available, allowing specifiers to tailor the panels to meet the specific sound requirements of any given area.
Additionally, laser cutting offers unparalleled design flexibility, allowing each project to be custom-designed to suit the space. Laser-cut panels can be used as room partitions and feature panels, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness to interior spaces.
Structural, Non and Bracing
Structural Plywood (CD)
Structural Plywood: The Backbone of Building
Structural plywood is an engineered wood panel designed to provide exceptional strength and stability for various structural applications in building and construction. It is engineered to meet specific load-bearing requirements, making it a crucial component in many construction projects.
Commonly used as an untreated panel, structural plywood is also available in treated variants, typically H2-S, H2, or H3, offering enhanced durability and resistance to moisture, termites, and fungal decay.
While versatile in its applications, it’s essential to note that structural plywood is primarily manufactured for its structural properties rather than its appearance. As such, the face veneer may exhibit some puttied splits and knotholes, which are considered normal and do not affect its structural integrity.
Non-Structural Plywood (CD)
Non-Structural Plywood: Versatile and Economical
Non-structural plywood is a cost-effective plywood sheet suitable for a wide range of applications, from hoardings to furniture and wall linings.
Crafted with an A bond glueline, it offers durability and reliable performance. Non-structural plywood is well-suited for painting or staining to match various design preferences.
While commonly used as an untreated panel, it can also be supplied in treated variants, such as H2-S, H2, or H3, for extended outdoor use.
Although non-structural plywood shares some properties with structural plywood, it is not manufactured to or tested against Australian Standards and does not carry an F rating. Therefore, it’s crucial to use non-structural plywood only in non-load-bearing or non-structural applications.
Despite its versatility, non-structural plywood is designed to be a low-cost panel, which means the face veneer may contain some puttied splits and knotholes.
Bracing Plywood
Hardwood Bracing Plywood (F22): Strength and Durability for Structural Integrity
Hardwood Bracing Plywood (F22) is designed for wall and roof bracing applications, providing essential support in timber-framed buildings. Incorporating bracing into the structure allows for the inclusion of large openings and extensive areas of glass in external walls, or additional wall strength in cyclonic areas.
Although only visible during the construction phase, bracing ply plays a crucial role in protecting the building from wind damage throughout its lifespan.
Crafted from mixed species hardwood sourced from legally harvested resources and featuring an A Bond glueline compliant with AS2269, F22 Hardwood bracing plywood is available in both untreated and H2-S treated variants (treated against termites).
It is essential that all bracing ply installations adhere to the Building Code of Australia and AS 1684 – Residential Timber Framed Construction Code to ensure structural integrity and compliance.
Interior And Feature
Feature Ply (AC, BB, BC): Enhance Your Space with Natural Beauty
Feature Ply, available in hoop or radiata grades, is renowned for its decorative qualities, making it a captivating addition to any interior design. With its face veneer typically free of defects such as splits, large knots, and putty, it leaves a lasting impression of purity and elegance.
Commonly finished with a clear coating to highlight its natural beauty, Feature Ply is versatile and suitable for a wide range of structural and non-structural applications. Whether used for decorative ceiling and wall linings, solid or perforated, it adds a touch of sophistication to any space.
Ideal for noise containment or attenuation applications, Feature Ply offers both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
For external or moisture-exposed applications, it’s recommended to treat the panel with a recognised H3 treatment to protect against fungal and termite attack. Additionally, finishing with a paint or water repellent can help minimize surface checking.
*When used structurally, ensure compliance with relevant building and engineering codes based on the panel’s structural rating.
Bendy Ply: Let Your Imagination Curve
Explore beyond the straight lines! Bendy Ply is a unique plywood sheet that offers the flexibility to curve and bend around tight radii, allowing you to bring your decorative ideas to life with ease.
This versatile material finds its place in various applications, including reception counters, columns, and feature displays, thanks to its ability to adapt to different shapes and forms.
With a high-grade face that can be cut in two directions, you have the option of a long or short grain, both perfect for clear finishing or painting. Additionally, Bendy Ply is suitable for overlaying with natural timber veneer, adding a touch of elegance to your designs.
It’s important to note that Bendy Ply is designed for interior non-structural use only. It’s not suitable for structural or wet area applications.
Lauan Ply: A Reliable Choice for Decorative Projects
Lauan Ply is a decorative hardwood plywood with earthy pink/brown tones, adding warmth and character to any project. Its subtle and consistent grain makes it a reliable choice when the appearance of the face is important, offering a touch of natural beauty to furniture and crafts.
Easy to work with, Lauan Ply can be painted or stained to match any decor style, allowing for versatile customization. Its smooth surface and consistent texture make it ideal for achieving a polished finish.
While Lauan Ply excels in decorative applications, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for structural use or exterior applications. However, its versatility and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for indoor furniture, cabinetry, and artistic projects where appearance matters most.
Lightweight Falcata Plywood: Ideal for Interior Fitouts
Falcata Plywood, known for its lightweight properties, offers up to 38% weight savings compared to standard hardwood plywoods, making it an excellent choice for interior fitouts where weight reduction is essential.
Perfectly suited for lightweight joinery applications, Falcata Plywood is commonly used for laminated benchtop substrates and bench seats in caravans.
Featuring a lighter appearance than many traditional hardwood species, Falcata boasts a clear face and subtle grain, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
Crafted with an interior moisture-proof bond, Falcata Plywood ensures durability and longevity in use, though it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for structural applications or exterior use.
In addition to its weight-saving benefits, Falcata Plywood is safer and easier to handle, helping to reduce workplace fatigue for production and fit-out staff.
Polyester & Paper Overlaid Plywood: Combining Aesthetic Appeal with Easy Maintenance
Polyester & Paper Overlaid Plywood offers a decorative overlay that blends aesthetic appeal with easy routine cleaning and maintenance properties.
Available in a range of colors, including White & Grey Embossed (polyester overlay) and Silver Cloud (paper overlay), with options for a matte or gloss finish. Please note that minimum quantities and lead times apply to non-stocked colors. For further information, please contact your local branch.
Routine cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe with a clean, damp soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, scourer pads (such as wire or copper cleaning pads), sandpaper, or subjecting the surface to excessive wetting.
While perfect for routine maintenance, this plywood is not recommended for use in wet areas or spaces with high relative humidity. It’s also not suitable for structural applications or exterior use. Prior to installation, it’s recommended that panels are inspected for color variation.
Plywood Doorskins: Enhancing the Look and Quality of Doors
Plywood Doorskins, made of hardwood plywood, are commonly specified in applications where high-quality faces are essential, such as decorative or commercial doors.
When considering the desired look, there’s a choice between standard and premium skins. The premium grade, known for its superior quality, is typically suitable for clear finishing, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. On the other hand, the standard grade is ideally finished with a painted surface, offering versatility in design.
To ensure the best finish for your doors, it’s recommended that potential customers consult with a representative from a Coating Company (Paint/Staining) in conjunction with an AWP Representative. This collaboration helps in specifying the appropriate coating applications for the Doorskins, ensuring the desired aesthetic and durability are achieved.
BB/CC Plywood: Versatile and Reliable
BB/CC hardwood ply is a highly sought-after choice for applications where the appearance of the face is crucial, while the back is less important. It finds extensive use in furniture making, signage, creating movie sets, and crafting feature walls.
The faces of BB/CC plywood are sanded to facilitate staining or painting, although it’s worth noting that, being a natural product, there will be some color variation between sheets. This variation can range from dark red to light blonde in appearance.
Manufactured using an ‘A’ bond resin, BB/CC plywood is suitable for a range of applications, including some with external exposure. However, for long-term full exposure, it’s recommended to treat and seal the panel against fungal and termite attacks using a recognized H3 treatment and finish it with paint or water repellent to minimize surface checking.
While BB/CC is a non-structural plywood, it is made entirely from hardwood, which naturally provides durability and strength.
Occasionally, the BB face may have small filled and sanded imperfections.
Plywood Cladding: Stylish and Versatile
SHADOWclad decorative structural plywood cladding stands as a stylish and versatile building product, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Revered by architects, designers, and builders for its blend of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, SHADOWclad offers the opportunity to create stunning facades without breaking the bank.
This cladding is adaptable to a broad range of external applications once sealed with an appropriate paint or stain system and installed following recommended guidelines. Treated with LOSP (H3), it provides protection against both insect (termite) and fungal (rot) attacks.
With its lightweight nature compared to other cladding options, SHADOWclad is particularly well-suited for projects on sloping blocks. Its installation requires no special tools, and its inherent bracing strength can often eliminate the need for additional bracing products during construction.
Available in primed (beige) or natural finishes with textured or grooved surfaces, SHADOWclad is manufactured from plantation pine timber, a renewable resource.
(SHADOWclad® is a trademark of Carter Holt Harvey Wood products)
Marine Ply
Marine Ply (AS/NZS 2272-2006)
Manufactured from high-quality plantation hoop pine veneers and bonded with a type A Phenolic resin, hoop pine plywood is an excellent choice for marine applications due to its density, bending strength, impact resistance, and surface finishing characteristics.
With high-grade hoop pine veneers used on both faces and core layers, hoop pine plywood meets the standards set by AS/NZS 2272-2006, making it ideal for use in boat hulls, pontoons, and other marine structures.
Thanks to its superior visual properties, when finished with a high-quality clear polyurethane, hoop marine ply is also highly desirable for a range of internal decorative applications such as ceiling linings and alfresco areas (Please refer to manufacturer’s guidelines on finishing download here).
It’s important to note that no marine species are naturally durable in water, so preservative treatment of marine plywood used in exposed marine environments is essential.
Hoop marine plywood is typically not suitable for fully exposed applications, such as wall cladding, due to its tendency to check on the surface and the manufacturer’s recommendation against using oil-based finishes.
Plywood T&G Flooring
Particleboard Flooring Ply
Particleboard flooring has been a staple in the Australian market for many years, valued for its affordability and durability in residential and light commercial construction. It’s fast and easy to install, making it a popular choice among builders and homeowners.
This versatile flooring option is available in three different thicknesses, allowing for flexibility in meeting various construction requirements. Whether untreated or termite-treated (H2), particleboard flooring panels provide reliable performance and ease of use.
Tongue & Groove Hardwood Flooring Ply
Tongue and groove (T&G) hardwood flooring ply is a robust and durable flooring panel, suitable for both commercial and residential construction.
This plywood offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on strength, stiffness, or dimensional stability. It’s highly resistant to impacts and remains easy to work with.
Each panel comes with a plastic tongue fitted in a machine-grooved channel, creating a seamless tongue and groove joint between sheets.
Our T&G Hardwood Flooring is independently certified to A2269-2004 by the StandardsMark (five ticks) program of SAI Global. This certification includes surveillance audits and structural testing at the University of Technology Sydney.
Tongue and Groove Softwood Flooring Ply
Tongue and groove softwood flooring ply is a robust choice for both domestic and commercial applications. Renowned for its strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability, plywood flooring offers a reliable solution that’s easy to work with and cost-effective.
One of its key advantages is its versatility. It can be treated with H3 preservatives, making it suitable for external or wet area uses where protection against moisture and decay is crucial.
Installed using the tongue and groove method, each sheet seamlessly connects to the next, ensuring a smooth and secure fit across the entire floor area. This method not only enhances structural integrity but also simplifies installation, making it a preferred option for builders and contractors.
Formwork
Hardform Formply
Crafted from premium hardwood veneers bonded with an A-grade resin, Hardform formply undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure a smooth finish and withstand the demands of concrete formwork.
Durable and reusable, Hardform is constructed with cross-banded veneers and top-quality phenolic surfaces, providing users with bi-directional strength (F14 or F17) and exceptional dimensional stability.
Capable of achieving a Class 2 finish on the first pour (per AS/NZ3610-2007), Hardform requires proper installation techniques including adequate expansion distances between sheets, use of release agents, tapes, and secure perimeter fixings. (Class 2 finish – AS/NZ3610 -2007 requires a test pour to confirm the finish).
Versatile and cost-effective, Hardform formply finds application in:
- Optimized form systems like table forms and jump forms;
- Steel or timber form frame systems; and
- Various frame spacings, slab thicknesses, and surface tolerances (subject to AS/NZ3610 structural design requirements and panel F rating).
Formply (Softwood)
Formply is a durable and reusable product specifically engineered to deliver a smooth off-form concrete finish.
Capable of achieving a Class 2 finish on the first pour (when installed according to Carter Holt Harvey’s installation details and AS 3610 recommendations), formply F17/14* is constructed using a plantation softwood core, a thin hardwood face and overlay, bonded with an “A” Bond phenolic adhesive. Additionally, it features a water repellent edge sealant to safeguard against typical construction moisture.
Formply F14 is a full softwood product (CCFO).
Certified by the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA) as ‘Product Certified’ against AS 6669-2007, offering peace of mind for quality and reliability.
LVL Boxxa Edgebeam
Designed to maintain its straightness and integrity over time, LVL Boxxa is the ideal choice for concrete boxing applications.
Made from cross-banded Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), LVL Boxxa offers superior strength, stability, and durability, making it perfect for formwork, precasting, and various concrete projects. The cross-banded LVL construction enhances resistance to cupping and swelling, particularly in concrete boxing applications.
Manufactured under strict quality control processes using sustainably sourced Pinus Radiata Logs (FSC certified), LVL Boxxa is environmentally friendly and reliable.
Key features of LVL Boxxa Edgebeam include:
- Cross-banded construction in all section sizes, improving resistance to cupping and swelling
- Longer lifespan compared to traditional timber boxing
- Specifically designed for stability, durability, and strength
- Easier handling due to its strength, straightness, and consistency
- Surface painted with high-wax content paint for improved concrete release and enhanced moisture resistance.
LVL Formwork Beams
Engineered for consistent and reliable performance in concrete formwork applications, LVL Formwork Beams are a trusted choice for construction projects.
These beams are commonly utilized as joists, bearers, walers, soldiers, and supports in concrete formwork systems, offering versatility and durability. By using LVL Formwork Beams, you can reduce forming costs and enhance the quality of your concrete finishes.
Manufactured under stringent quality control measures in modern facilities, LVL Formwork Beams are designed to be uniform, strong, lightweight, and straight. Their precise engineering ensures stability and longevity in various formworking applications.
The structural properties of LVL Formwork Beams are rigorously tested to meet the requirements of AS/NZS 4357.0:2005 for Structural (LVL) Laminated Veneer Lumber. Additionally, they are independently audited and third-party certified by the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA), providing assurance of their quality and performance.
Particleboard
Particleboard Raw
Particleboard is a versatile engineered wood product made from wood particles bonded together with synthetic resins. Typically crafted in Australia from sustainably managed plantation pine, particleboard offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for various applications. It comes in a wide range of sheet sizes, providing flexibility for different projects and requirements.
White Melamine Particleboard
White Melamine Particleboard is a highly versatile interior panel commonly employed in various shelving, furniture, and joinery applications. It typically consists of a particleboard substrate overlaid with white decorative paper on one or both sides. In some cases, one long edge is also edged for a more finished appearance. This type of panel offers a clean, modern aesthetic and is valued for its durability and ease of maintenance.
Particleboard Flooring
Particleboard flooring has been a staple in the Australian market for many years, valued for its affordability and durability in residential and light commercial construction. It’s fast and easy to install, making it a popular choice for builders and homeowners alike. Available in three different thicknesses, particleboard flooring panels can be chosen as untreated or termite-treated (H2) options to suit various construction needs.
MDF
MDF Raw
MDF is a versatile and easy-to-use panel designed for general-purpose interior use. Manufactured to be uniform in size, color, density, and strength, MDF serves as an ideal substrate for various applications. It’s available in a diverse range of resin types, including low formaldehyde emission panels (SE0).
White Melamine MDF
White Melamine on an MDF substrate is a versatile interior panel commonly used in shelving, furniture, and joinery applications. It’s overlaid in the factory with hard-wearing melamine-impregnated decorative white paper on both sides for added durability and aesthetics.
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