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Asked & Answered: 5 common questions about plywood

What's best for your project? We checked in with the Maple Ridge experts for answers
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Find everything you need to bring your plywood projects to fruition at Smith Plywoods in Maple Ridge.

If you've ever had a question about plywood – Is it strong enough for your project? Can it stand up to the rain? – you're not alone. In fact, answering these and many other questions is a key part of what the experts at Smith Plywoods in Maple Ridge do, all so they can direct you to the right plywood for your project.

Why is that important? Plywood isn't a single product. There are actually many different kinds of plywood, all designed for specific uses and settings – also why Smith Plywoods needed to double their space with a brand new warehouse last year! As the largest dedicated plywood lumber yard in the Lower Mainland, the family-owned business has been the region's go-to destination for plywood and all the accompanying stains, adhesives, accessories and more since 1952, not to mention the expert advice to go with it. 

So with all that expertise on hand, we wanted to ask the Smith team about some of the most common plywood questions they receive.

Q. Is plywood waterproof?  

Smith Plywoods. Marine plywood is waterproof, and available in both fir and mahogany at Smith Plywoods, which is home to one of the largest selections of marine plywood in the Lower Mainland. All other plywood is not fully waterproof and must be sealed – especially if it will be used in high-moisture areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and outdoors.     

Q. Is plywood strong?      

Smith Plywoods. Yes! One of the biggest misconceptions about plywood is that it's weaker just because it's more affordable. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Plywood is crafted from laminated veneers in alternating directions, which gives it strength. If you need something extra sturdy, explore the large selection of thicker options, such as Baltic birch, which has a multi-ply core, and marine plywood, specifically designed for extreme durability and moisture-resistance. It's built with premium hardwood veneers and waterproof Phenolic resin adhesive.                                                 

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The family-owned Smith Plywoods has been the region's go-to destination for plywood and all the accompanying stains, adhesives, accessories and more since 1952. Courtesy Smith Plywoods

 

Q. What is plywood used for?      

Smith Plywoods. Everything! From kitchens and bathroom cabinetry to decks, sheds and planter boxes, you can make it all with plywood. Then there's forms, bookshelves, shoe racks, boats, trailers and so much more. One of plywood's greatest strengths is that it's so versatile and is used in an astounding variety of ways by those in the trades, design and architecture, to hobbyists, DIY warriors and more.                                                                                                 

Q. Is plywood affordable?        

Smith Plywoods. Absolutely – Smith Plywoods' highly trained staff is always ready to help you pick the best type of plywood for your project and your budget.                                                    

Q. Can you paint plywood?       

Smith Plywoods. Definitely – painting plywood is extremely common. Many people like to retain the natural look and feel of their plywood, but some want to add colour to it, especially when making exterior Signs. The best plywood for painting is MDO, or medium density overlaid plywood.

Find more solutions online at smithplywoods.com then bring your questions to Smith Plywoods at 20091 113B Ave. Visit from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Call 604-574-4393 for more details and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more tips, product announcements and more.

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