What is plywood? And its HSN code. And types and 10 Ways to identify quality of plywood.

Plywood is a strong and light wood made by sticking thin layers of wood together. The layers are placed in opposite directions to strengthen the wood and prevent it from breaking or bending. Plywood comes in different sizes, thicknesses, and qualities for building, making furniture, or decorating. It is popular because it is strong, easy to use, and useful. The HSN code for plywood is 4412, covering veneered, laminated, or similar wood sheets used in construction and furniture making.

Price or Cost of Plywood by Grade and Thickness & Choosing the Best Plywood

Plywood Cost in Rupees Based on Grade and Thickness

Here is an approximate cost of plywood per sheet in India (4×8 feet dimensions):

Grade/Type	Thickness (mm)	Price Range (₹)	Typical Uses
Commercial Grade	6mm, 12mm, 18mm	₹800–₹2,000	Furniture backing, paneling
MR Grade (Moisture Resistant)	6mm, 12mm, 18mm	₹1,000–₹2,500	Cabinets, indoor furniture
BWR Grade (Boiling Water Resistant)	6mm, 12mm, 18mm	₹1,500–₹3,500	Kitchens, bathrooms, semi-outdoor use
Marine Grade	12mm, 18mm	₹3,000–₹5,500	Boats, water-exposed structures
Hardwood/Birch	6mm, 12mm, 18mm	₹2,500–₹4,500	High-end furniture, decorative work

Best Plywood Recommendations

1. Best for Interiors: MR Grade for budget-friendly furniture.
2. Best for Kitchens/Bathrooms: BWR Grade due to its water resistance.
3. Best for Outdoor/Heavy-Duty Use: Marine grade offers maximum durability.
4. Best for Fine Craftsmanship: Hardwood or birch plywood for superior aesthetics.

Prices may vary slightly based on location, brand, and retailer.

Different types of plywood, size, and thickness.

1. Commercial Plywood and Grades

Grades of Commercial Plywood

Commercial plywood is categorized into grades based on its durability and resistance to moisture:

1. Moisture Resistant (MR) Plywood

• Commonly referred to as Interior Grade Plywood.
• Designed for indoor use with limited exposure to humidity or water.
• Suitable for furniture, partitions, and paneling in dry areas.

2. Boiling Water Resistant (BWR) Plywood

• It is made with phenol-formaldehyde resin, offering better water resistance than MR plywood.
• Suitable for semi-moist environments like kitchen cabinets and bathroom storage.
• Often referred to as Exterior Grade Plywood but not entirely waterproof.

3. Boiling Water Proof (BWP) Plywood

• Also known as Marine Plywood.
• It is fully waterproof and can withstand prolonged exposure to water.
• Ideal for wet zones, like under-sink cabinets and countertops.

Sizes and Thicknesses

Commercial plywood is available in standard sizes and a range of thicknesses, making it adaptable to different applications:

1. Standard Size:
   • 4 feet × 8 feet (1220 mm × 2440 mm) is the most common.
   • Custom sizes are also available upon request.
2. Thickness Range:
   • 4 mm to 25 mm, catering to various structural and non-structural needs.
   • 4-6 mm: Thin plywood for decorative applications or lightweight furniture.
   • 12-18 mm: Medium thickness for cabinets, shelves, and paneling.
   • 25 mm: Thick plywood for load-bearing applications like flooring or heavy-duty furniture.

Choosing the Right Commercial Plywood

To ensure you get the best quality plywood for your project, follow these tips:

1. Select the Right Grade:
   • Use MR grade for dry indoor areas.
   • Opt for BWR grade for kitchens or semi-moist areas.
   • Choose BWP for areas with high water exposure.
2. Check ISI Certification:
   • Look for the ISI Mark to ensure the plywood meets Indian Standards.
     • IS 303: For MR and BWR plywood.
     • IS 710: For BWP plywood.
3. Inspect for Quality:
   • Ensure the surface is smooth and free of gaps, cracks, or visible defects.
   • Check for uniform thickness across the sheet.
4. Buy from Trusted Brands:
   • Leading brands like CenturyPly, Greenply, and Kitply offer reliable commercial plywood with warranties.

What is Marine Plywood?

Marine plywood is a high-quality plywood specially designed for applications where exposure to water and humidity is common. It is made using durable, water-resistant adhesive and high-grade wood veneers, ensuring excellent strength and moisture resistance. Marine plywood is widely used for outdoor and water-related projects like boat building, docks, and outdoor furniture. It also resists insect and fungal attacks, making it highly durable.

Grades of Marine Plywood

Marine plywood is categorized into grades based on quality and the number of voids or imperfections in the wood:

• AA Grade:
  • Top-quality with minimal defects.
  • Ideal for high-end applications like boat decks or premium furniture.
• AB Grade:
  • Slightly lower quality than AA but still durable and smooth.
  • Suitable for most water-resistant construction needs.
• BC Grade:
  • Has more noticeable imperfections but is still functional.
  • Used for structural purposes where appearance is less important.

Sizes and Thickness

• Standard Size: 4 feet × 8 feet (1220 mm × 2440 mm).
• Thickness Range:
  • 4–6 mm: Thin sheets for lightweight structures or curved designs.
  • 12–18 mm: Medium thickness for walls, cabinets, or outdoor furniture.
  • 25 mm: Thick sheets for heavy-duty projects like boat building or docks.

How to Identify High-Quality Marine Plywood

1. Check the ISI Mark:
   • Look for IS 710 certification, which guarantees it meets marine-grade standards.
2. Inspect the Surface:
   • Ensure it is smooth, with no visible gaps or voids.
3. Verify Adhesive Type:
   • High-quality marine plywood uses phenol-formaldehyde resin, known for excellent water resistance.
4. Buy from Trusted Brands:
   • Reputable manufacturers like CenturyPly, Greenply, and Austin Ply offer certified marine plywood.

Comparison of Marine Plywood with Other Plywood Types

Feature	Marine Plywood	Commercial Plywood	BWR Plywood
Water Resistance	High	Low to Moderate	Moderate
Durability	Very High	Moderate	High
Cost	High	Low	Medium
Uses	Boats, docks, outdoors	Indoor furniture, paneling	Semi-wet areas, cabinets

What is Flexi Plywood?

Flexi plywood, also called bendable or flexible plywood, is a unique type of plywood designed to be highly flexible. Unlike regular plywood, which is stiff, flexi plywood can bend or curve easily, making it perfect for creative designs and applications with complex shapes. It is widely used in modern furniture, decorative projects, and interior design to create smooth, curved surfaces.

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Why Choose Flexi Plywood?

1. High Flexibility: It can be bent without cracking and is ideal for curved designs.
2. Lightweight: Easy to handle and shape during construction.
3. Versatile: Suitable for furniture, ceilings, and decorative elements.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Allows smooth, flowing designs that elevate the look of spaces.

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Grades of Flexi Plywood

Flexi plywood is primarily graded by its bending ability and flexibility rather than by standard quality grades. Its flexibility depends on the thickness and type of wood used.

• Thin Sheets (4–6 mm): Highly flexible, suitable for tight curves and intricate designs.
• Thicker Sheets (12–19 mm): More rigid but still bendable, used for larger, gentler curves.

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Sizes and Thickness

• Standard Size: 4 feet × 8 feet (1220 mm × 2440 mm).
• Thickness Options:
  • 4–6 mm: Best for small, sharp curves.
  • 9–12 mm: Ideal for medium curves and decorative furniture.
  • 19 mm: Suitable for broader curves and structural purposes.
• Custom Sizes: Available based on project needs.

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Where to Use Flexi Plywood

1. Curved Furniture:
   • Ideal for creating round tables, curved cabinets, or wave-like shelves.
2. Interior Design:
   • Used for creating curved walls, partitions, or ceilings in modern spaces.
3. Decorative Elements:
   • Great for artistic installations and flowing, organic shapes in décor.
4. Carpentry and Craft Projects:
   • Perfect for making models or prototypes requiring curved components.

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Advantages of Flexi Plywood

1. Easy to Shape: This can be molded into almost any curve, enhancing design possibilities.
2. Lightweight: Simplifies handling and installation.
3. Smooth Finish: Provides a uniform surface for laminates, veneers, or paint.
4. Customizable: Available in various thicknesses to suit specific bending requirements.

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How to Work with Flexi Plywood

1. Prepare a Framework: Use a mold or frame to shape the plywood into the desired curve.
2. Apply Adhesives: Strong adhesives help maintain the curve for a long-lasting shape.
3. Finish the Surface: Add laminates, veneers, or polish for a refined look.

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Maintenance Tips

• Keep Dry: Avoid prolonged exposure to water to maintain its shape.
• Use Protective Coatings: Apply paint, polish, or laminates to shield it from wear and tear.
• Inspect Regularly: Check for cracks or deformations in highly curved areas.

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Conclusion

Flexi plywood is a revolutionary material for creating innovative and curved designs in furniture and interiors. Its flexibility, lightweight nature, and versatility make it a preferred choice for architects, designers, and craftsmen. Whether used for unique furniture pieces, stylish ceilings, or artistic décor, flexi plywood adds a touch of elegance and creativity to any project.

What is plywood? CDX plywood.