Marine-grade plywood is more durable, stronger, and stable than pressure-treated plywood. Marine-grade plywood is used for boats, docks, and underwater projects, whereas pressure-treated plywood can be used for all types of outdoor projects.
Choosing the right plywood for your project is very important or else your project may get spoiled prematurely.
In this blog post, we will know what are the differences between marine grade plywood and pressure-treated plywood and also know which is better for your application.
Difference between marine plywood and pressure-treated plywood
| # | Marine Plywood | Pressure Treated Plywood |
| Surface | Both sides have a smooth surface. | Both side rough surfaces |
| Bending Capacity | Not bent more than 18mm. | It can be bent more than 18mm. |
| Weight | It is always heavier than Pressure Treated Plywood. | It is lighter than marine plywood. |
| Knots | A / A grade does not have knots, whereas in B / B grade there are some knots. | Knots are presents. |
| Void and Gaps | There are no voids and gaps between their veneer sheets. | Voids and gaps are present between the veneers sheet. |
| Number of layers | Marine plywood has a minimum of 9 to 11 thin veneers sheets. | The exterior plywood consists of 5 or 7 veneers sheets |
| Quality veneers | The Marine Plywood is made from Douglas fir or Western Larch. | Pinewood is used |
| Standard | Marine-grade plywood follows BS 1088 Standard. | Not sure |
| Price | Its price is always higher than the Pressure Treated Plywood. | The price of this plywood is always less than marine plywood. |
Marine-Grade Plywood
Marine-grade plywood is a type of plywood that is designed for use in environments where moisture levels are very high.
The Marine plywood is made from high-quality veneer sheets of Western Larch or Douglas-fir. It is made by gluing 9- 11 solid veneer sheets together.
Marine Plywood Uses
It is made with waterproof glue and is often used in boatbuilding and other water-related applications. Marine-grade plywood is also resistant to rot and decay, making it a good choice for applications where exposure to moisture is likely.
Which glue is used in making marine-grade plywood?
Resorcinol is used to make marine-grade plywood marine-grade because it is the best waterproof adhesive to waterproof marine-grade plywood.
Pressure Treated Plywood
Pressure-treated plywood is a type of plywood that has been treated with a chemical preservative under pressure. This chemical treatment helps to protect the wood from rot, decay, and insects.
It is a great option when projects need to be protected from moisture and decay.
Pressure-treated Plywood Uses
Pressure-treated plywood is often used in construction, landscaping, and other outdoor applications where the wood is exposed to moisture or environmental hazards.
The chemical is injected inside the plywood during treatment. To protect plywood from termite and insect damage, fungal damage, and bacterial damage.
Which glue is used in making pressure-treated plywood?
Polyurethane Glue is used to make Pressure Treated Plywood. It works well in moisture. This glue characteristic makes this product a great choice when assembling projects made from pressure-treated plywood.
Advantages and disadvantages of Marine Grade Plywood
Advantages
Not Harmful
Marine plywood is not produced by the chemical treatment process. So we can also use it for kitchen and indoor purposes. It is not harmful to humans.
Easy to care
Marine-grade plywood has a smooth surface. The smooth surface prevents moisture and dust. So it is very easy to clean and maintain.
Disadvantages
Expensive
Marine-grade plywood is more expensive than pressure-treated plywood. It can be twice or thrice as expensive as regular plywood.
Not 100% Waterproof
Nothing made of wood can be 100% waterproof. It performs better in moisture and water than other materials. Therefore, marine-grade plywood also needs regular maintenance.
Advantages and disadvantages of pressure-treated plywood
Advantages
Affordable
Pressure Treated Plywood is cheaper than marine grade plywood but not the cheapest. It is easily available in the market.
Easy to repair
Pressure-treated plywood is easy to repair. The rot that occurs in it can be easily traced and the particular part can be replaced.
Disadvantages
Health Risk
Pressure Treated Plywood is chemically treated. This chemical can be harmful to the human body and can also be responsible for skin reactions.
Durability
Generally, its durability is good but less than that of marine grade or solid hardwood.
FAQs
Why is Marine Grade Plywood Better?
The quality of marine plywood depends on many things. Such as the quality of veneer sheets, glue, and the right way to make it.
Marine plywood doesn’t have as many voids as regular plywood, which makes it structurally stronger.
Can you paint marine-grade plywood?
Yes, you can paint or stain marine plywood. It accepts all types of paints well. But before painting, you have to sand the surface and do a thin coat of latex-based primer.
Does marine-grade plywood need to be sealed?
Marine-grade plywood is already durable as we know it. But sealing definitely enhances the durability and stability of marine plywood. Sealing acts as a protective layer that prevents dust and moisture from penetrating the plywood.
Is pressure-treated plywood good for outside?
Yes, pressure-treated plywood can be a good choice for the outdoors if the project is not constantly exposed to moisture and soil. Exterior paint and proper sealing outdoors. Make it suitable for outdoor uses.
Is treated plywood the same as marine plywood?
No, treated plywood and marine plywood are both different. Marine Plywood is made from Douglas fir or Western Larch whereas Treated plywood is made of Pinewood.
Does pressure-treated plywood warp?
The answer may not be straightforward. Meaning whether the plywood will wrap or not depends on how you use it. Treated plywood doesn’t always twist/warp/shrink but can warp when constant exposure to moisture and water.
Conclusion
Pressure Treated and Marine grade Plywood both are great building materials. They are used on the basis of their strength and properties.
Like all materials, they also have pros and cons. You must know about them before using them. Pressure-Treated plywood are chemically treated (pressure treated) which can harm you. If you work with this plywood then take care of your safety.
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