What does CD mean on plywood?

The letters “CD” represent the veneer grades used on the front and back, and “X” means the glue (not the wood) is rated for outdoor exposure—but only for a short time. Eventually the panel must be covered by something more weather resistant—like bricks, siding or shingles.

What is CD plywood?

CD Structural plywood is a versatile substrate made from 100% renewable softwood plantation Radiata Pine. It is manufactured to the AS/NZS2269 plywood structural standard and FSC certification. CD structural plywood can be used for exterior and interior applications where aesthetic appearance is not critical.

What does C and D mean in plywood?

CDX Plywood is used primarily by contractors to build exterior walls and roofs. CDX plywood has one side veneer grade “C” and one side veneer grade “D”. The two are bonded together with glue which can withstand a little moisture. The APA would recognize CDX Grade Plywood as C-D Exposure 1 plywood.

Is CD plywood same as CDX?

Because CD and CDX have similar names, people often confused them. Both use C and D-grade plywood. The X stands for the type of glue used to join the “C” and “D” plywood veneers together. CD plywood uses standard glue, while CDX uses special glue for plywood intended for exterior use.

Can you use CD plywood outside?

Today, builders can choose from several types of exterior plywood. The best choice depends primarily on the intended use, but budget can also be a consideration. CDX plywood, a stock item at most lumberyards, is a utility grade suitable for most outdoor projects.

Different types of Plywood and Their Uses

Is CD plywood waterproof?

The main difference between the two is the type of glue used in the manufacturing of the boards. There are two glues, interior (which does not stand up to wetting) and exterior (which is not affected by long term wetting and can be called waterproof).

What is the difference between CD and DD plywood?

Construction ply in CD or CPD or DD comes as either a non-structural or an ASNZ2269 certified structural panel. CD has one sanded face, while D face allows for some unfilled knots & splits. With a marine glue this is used in all aspects on interior construction.

What is the best grade of plywood?

A has the highest quality and is the most expensive, and D is the least expensive. A-grade plywood features a smooth, sanded surface without knots. Any wood defects have been repaired with synthetic filler, so the veneer can be painted. A-grade plywood is ideal for furniture or cabinet doors.

Is OSB stronger than CDX plywood?

Although some people will ultimately choose CDX, many experts argue that OSB is better overall for roofing. OSB is far less likely to expand and contract when exposed to humidity and moisture, even though it will take longer to dry. With wrapping, though, it can withstand the elements without issue.

What is C2 plywood?

This Plywood is C2 graded meaning the “C” side has a more rough surface with visible knots and splits when compared to grade B. The “2” is the grade of the backside of the board. Grade 2 is used when color isn't a concern. Larger knots are allowed, but they do not exceed a diameter of 3/4″.

What is C3 plywood?

A3, B3, C3 are for plywood that will be seen from one side, but the back side must be clean, although there may be some stain or discoloration on the back, spliced veneer, and so on. One might use this material for the sides of a dresser (who looks inside?), for drawer sides, and shelving.

What are the 3 types of plywood?

Why is it called CDX plywood?

CDX is veneer plywood, which is manufactured by gluing and pressing together sheets of wood. The letters C and D represent the grades of either side of the plywood, while X stands for exposure.

What do the letters on plywood mean?

The letters progress like grades in school — A is the highest grade, D is the lowest. A-grade plywood: A-grade plywood is the highest quality and is the most expensive, as most sheets will be free of flaws. If you're looking for plywood that is smooth and can be easily painted, this is a great option.

What does the stamp on plywood mean?

The span rating indicates the maximum inches between supports (i.e. joist, truss etc) that the panel may be applied. If there are two numbers, the first refers to roof applications, the second to floor applications.

How can you tell if plywood is treated?

To tell if the wood is treated, check tags, stamps, and markings of chemicals used. Smelling can also help you know if wood is treated. Treated lumber can smell oily, while untreated wood doesn't. Treated wood also has a green or brown hue from the treatment process.

What is the strongest plywood?

The answer is marine plywood. It is the strongest and toughest of all plywood on the market. High-quality glues hold the plies in marine plywood together. That makes them structurally sound and resistant to moisture.

Why is CDX cheaper than OSB?

Oriented strand board (OSB) combines wood chips, glue, and resin into the shape of a sheet of plywood and bakes them together. What is this? It is often less expensive than CDX plywood because this manufacturing process doesn't require the same costly veneers found on the front and back of CDX plywood.

What is the best plywood to use for roofing?

Most Common Thickness

For rafters spaced 20 or more inches apart, 1/2- or 5/8-inch plywood is recommended. The most common rafter spacing is 24 inches, and 5/8-inch plywood is recommended for that. It will support roof loads for most situations and is the standard for most roof applications.

Which brand plywood is best?

How many grades are there in plywood?

There are four main grades of plywood veneer or 'sheets': A, B, C, and D.

How do you read plywood grades?

What is the difference between ACX and CDX plywood?

Since ACX plywood is a higher grade material than say CDX plywood, it is specifically used in cases that require good appearance or a smooth finish, along with durability. Because this plywood is more expensive than other grades of softwood plywood, it is only used where needed, not in all situations.

Is CDX plywood structural?

This type of plywood is also referred to as “structural plywood;” a designation which means that it is intended for structural applications.

What is best plywood for outdoor use?

While similar to standard exterior plywoods, marine plywood is the highest quality (AA, AB, and BB), constructed from wood without knots. Eliminating the knots in wood improves durability because it practically eliminates the possibility of water pockets forming within the wood.