Our Guide to Plywood Standards and Classifications
What is plywood?
Plywood is an engineered wood product made by gluing together thin layers of wood veneers with each layer having its grain rotated at a right angle to the adjacent layer. This structure gives plywood its strength and stability. However, not all plywood is the same. They come in different classes, each with its own set of properties and recommended applications.
What to look for when selecting plywood
The most common classification system used for plywood is the European Standard EN 636. This standard specifies the requirements for plywood's suitability for use in different conditions and end uses. The standard categorises plywood into three classes, depending on their expected end use and the conditions they will be exposed to:
Class 1 Plywood Class 1 plywood is suitable for use in dry conditions where there is little or no risk of exposure to moisture. It has a smooth surface and can be easily painted, varnished, or laminated. Class 1 plywood meets the EN 636-1 standard.
Class 2 Plywood Class 2 plywood is suitable for use in humid conditions, such as interior applications where it may be exposed to occasional wetting. It has a moisture-resistant adhesive and can withstand slight changes in moisture content without warping or delaminating. Class 2 plywood meets the EN 636-2 standard.
Class 3 Plywood Class 3 plywood is suitable for use in exterior applications where it may be exposed to weather and wetting. It has a water-resistant adhesive and can withstand changes in moisture content without warping or delaminating. Class 3 plywood meets the EN 636-3 standard.
Understanding the Standards of Plywood
BS EN 13986:2004+A1:2015 is a European standard that specifies the requirements for wood-based panels for use in construction. This standard sets the quality criteria for wood-based panels, including plywood, and determines whether they are suitable for use in flooring.
The standard lays out several key requirements for wood-based panels, including the physical and mechanical properties that they must possess. These properties include resistance to moisture and fire, as well as strength and stability. The standard also specifies the tolerances for panel size and thickness, as well as the allowable defects and surface characteristics.
In terms of flooring, BS EN 13986:2004+A1:2015 ensures that plywood used for flooring meets the necessary quality criteria to provide a stable and durable surface. Plywood is a popular choice for flooring due to its strength and resistance to warping, which makes it suitable for use in high-traffic areas.
Additionally, the standard also sets requirements for formaldehyde emissions from wood-based panels. Formaldehyde is a chemical that can be released from some wood-based products and is known to be a carcinogen. BS EN 13986:2004+A1:2015 sets limits on formaldehyde emissions from wood-based panels to ensure that they are safe for use in construction and do not pose a health risk to occupants.
FSC®-certified plywood
FSC-certified plywood is made from wood harvested from well-managed forests. This certification ensures that the wood used in the plywood comes from a responsible source, helping to preserve the environment and protect forest communities. Using FSC-certified plywood in construction and furniture manufacturing also helps to meet sustainability targets.
SASGO is FSC certified, so customers have the added reassurance of full and transparent chain of custody.
Making the right choice for your project
It is important to select the correct grade and class of plywood for the intended use to ensure the best performance and durability. When selecting plywood, look for markings indicating the class and grade of the plywood.
In the UK, the British Standards Institution (BSI) is the national standards body responsible for setting standards for plywood and other construction materials. Their website provides information on standards such as BS EN 13986:2004+A1:2015 and BS EN 636-3:2013.
In conclusion, understanding the different classes of plywood is essential when choosing the right plywood for your application. EN 636-1, EN 636-2, and EN 636-3 are the standards that regulate the use of plywood in different conditions and end uses. Always choose the right class of plywood that meets your requirements and budget and consider using FSC-certified plywood for a sustainable and responsible choice.
