Troubleshooting Guide

Tips and Tricks - Plywood

Plywood typically comes in standard 4 x 8 panels. However, for ease of handling, transportation

and storage, as well as less wasted material after smaller projects are completed, plywood can

also be purchased in smaller Project Panel sizes such as 4x4, 2x4 and 2x2.

In addition, plywood comes in a variety of thicknesses. The noted nominal thickness may not be

the exact actual dimension – as is common with dimensional lumber too – but it will be close,

and certainly close enough to help you ensure that you’re choosing the proper thickness for the

requirements of your project. But “eyeballing” the thickness you’re looking for is the quickest

and surest way to make your first mistake.

As they say, measure twice, cut once.

Understanding Plywood Grades

Veneer Grades: The best way to think of veneer grades is as school grades, with A being the

best/most desirable and D having the least favorable appearance.

A Grade – Sanded, smooth, paintable surface without knots. Any defects were small enough to

be neatly repaired by the manufacturer using a synthetic filler. This product is ideal for

furniture, cabinets, doors or any projects where beauty is of the utmost importance.

B Grade – Sanded, smooth, paintable surface. Veneers may have only a few small knots or

slight discoloration.

C Grade – Unsanded with observable minor defects that would need to be repaired if a more

attractive appearance is important. Knotholes may be up to 1½ inches across.

D Grade – Unsanded and potentially discolored with more significant defects and knotholes up

to 2½ inches across. This grade is often used for structural purposes or as sheathing that will be

covered with other products such as flooring, siding, roofing, etc.

Cutting Plywood

Don’t own a saw? Ask a sales associate if complementary cutting is available. These stores will

cut as many pieces as you’d like to any dimensions you need. Feel free to bring your project

instructions along so you’re ready to take advantage of this service when and where it’s

offered. The professionals are there to help!

Getting a Clean Edge

All the cuts you need to make on plywood can be made with a circular saw. A miter saw and

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Tips and Tricks - Plywood Plywood typically comes in standard 4 x 8 panels. However, for ease of handling, transportation and storage, as well as less wasted material after smaller projects are completed, plywood can also be purchased in smaller Project Panel sizes such as 4x4, 2x4 and 2x2. In addition, plywood comes in a variety of thicknesses.
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table saw work too – and can save time on large jobs – but the circular saw is your Swiss army knife of saws. Whichever saw you choose, make sure you’re using one with sharp carbide teeth. A high number of sharp teeth will ensure clean cuts, while dull blades are more likely to chew up the edges of your panels. Terms that describe cuts: Rip cut: A cut going with the grain of the wood. Rip cuts are less likely to splinter. Crosscut: A cut that is made across/perpendicular to the grain.
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Due to the nature of plywood’s face veneers, it’s important to be careful when sanding, as it can be easy to inadvertently sand through the veneer. This produces what’s referred to as a “burn,” where the second, darker layer shows through. When you’re looking to achieve an even finish, it’s always a good idea to make a few light pencil marks on the surface of your veneer and use them as a benchmark for how deep you’re sanding.