Many beginner woodworkers are somehow confused with regards to confidently selecting the right kind of wood in order to bring success to their projects. However, selecting the best wood is challenging for novices. Solid wood and plywood are the most common choices for many contractors. Bord is a reliable destination to buy quality wood for your professional needs. Let us help you choose between plywood and solid wood.
Understanding solid wood for your project-
Solid wood is the lumber that has been directly milled from felled trees. Mature live trees are cut down to extract lumber for various purposes, such as construction and woodworking. The best examples of solid wood are-
- Mango wood
- Pinewood
- Ash beech
- Teak wood
- Rosewood
- Walnut
Categorising the solid wood-
Solid wood is classified into 2 types- softwood and hardwood. Lumber from gymnosperm trees (that have naked seeds) is a softwood. For example, spruce and cedar are softwoods used for various projects. On the contrary, angiosperm trees that bear fruits are the source of hardwood. Ash and cherry are some examples of hardwood.
Know about plywood
Plywood refers to the engineered wood that joins thin layers of wood veneer with adhesive. The layers of wood are joined to ensure their grains are in opposite directions for better stability and improved strength. Depending on strength and quality, there are variations in grades of plywood. You will also find different thickness levels for various applications, such as panel construction and partitions.
Many professionals prefer plywood for its structural integrity and strength. Plywood also resists cracking and warping issues. From marine plywood to softwood plywood, there are different options for contractors.
Comparing solid wood and plywood
This comparison of plywood and solid wood will thus help a person to make the right choice that better suits their kind of project. Strength- Solid wood is stronger than plywood because it is denser in formation. On the contrary, as plywood is manufactured wood, it combines thin wood layers.
Some types of hardwood are extremely strong and bear heavy loads. But, plywood has a comparatively less load-bearing capacity.
However, the presence of big knots in solid wood makes the structure weaker.
Appearance and aesthetics- Solid wood has natural characteristics, such as knots and grain patterns. That is why they have an aesthetic value, which is essential for some projects. Plywood does not look attractive, and its surface is rough. You may polish it to make the surface smooth. With decorative veneers, you may also customise your plywood.
Maintenance- Both plywood and solid wood need minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and dusting will make them long-lasting. However, solid wood may have scratches over time. So, wood products have to be sanded and polished to maintain the original look.
On the contrary, laminated plywood does not need maintenance as its surface resists scratches and moisture. You may just clean it with a wet cloth.
The detailed comparison will help you choose solid wood or plywood. Learn about the characteristics of the chosen wood before making a purchase for your woodworking projects.
