Why Use Plywood Subfloors?
The Benefits of Plywood
Known for its versatility and structural performance, plywood is widely used across the construction industry. When it comes to structural flooring, however, it consistently proves itself as a reliable, cost-effective solution that’s easy to work with.
Whether you’re working on a residential renovation or a new build, plywood flooring offers practical advantages for a stable and structurally sound subfloor.
What is Plywood Flooring?
Plywood flooring refers to floor sheets manufactured from multiple thin layers of timber veneer that are glued together under heat and pressure. Each layer alternates its grain, running perpendicular to the previous one. This cross-grain construction is what gives plywood its strength and dimensional stability.
Common types used in flooring applications include:
- Structural plywood – Designed for load-bearing applications and commonly used as subflooring
- Exterior/ Marine plywood – Manufactured with high-quality veneers and waterproof adhesives for high-moisture environments.
Thickness selection depends on joist spacing and load requirements. Typical plywood flooring sheets range from 15mm to 25mm, with thicker sheets used where greater structural performance is required.
Benefits of Using Plywood for Flooring
Strength and Durability of Plywood
- Engineered to handle structural loads, depending on ply grade
- Long-lasting and strong resistance to damage
- Resistant to cracking, warping, and splitting under heavy loads.
Ease of Installation
- Plywood flooring is lightweight and easy to handle and position onsite
- Simple to cut, shape, nail, screw, glue, or staple
- Can be finished with paint, stain, or varnish if required
- Most plywood sheets come with tongue-and-groove edges, allowing for quick and easy installation on site.
Moisture Resistance Versions
- Plywood comes in exterior-grade or marine plywood, treated and manufactured with weather-resistant adhesives
- Structural plywood made with A-bond glue to provide some resistance to wet conditions
- Suitable for subfloors in damp or humid areas.
Versatility of Plywood
- Available in various grades, sizes, and thicknesses
- Can be sourced in a range of visual grades. Most structural applications require a non-appearance grade ply
- Works for both residential and commercial projects
- Can serve as subflooring or temporary construction flooring.
Bowens Range of Plywood
Bowens supplies a wide selection of plywood flooring, offering more options when it comes to structural support. For more information, explore our products online or visit your local Bowens store.
Considering particleboard for your next project’s substrate? Read our article “Plywood vs Particleboard Flooring: Which Substrate Performs Best?” on the blog.