FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Project Panels

Is plywood insect (termite) resistant?

Unless you choose pressure-treated panels, project panels are not insect resistant. However,

for indoor use, most wood products aren’t likely to become infested with insects or termites.

Avoid the risk by using common household insect control measures.

What is MDF?

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is an engineered wood product made from a mixture of

hardwood and softwood fibers glued together with strong resin. These ingredients are then

pressed into a sheet at whatever thickness is desired. The benefits of MDF are its smooth

surface, density and durability, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of DIY projects,

from décor and crafts to cabinetry and repairs.

What is Particleboard?

Particleboard is another engineered wood product made from a combination of wood chips,

sawmill shavings and sawdust glued together by resin or other types of binders. These

components are pressed together and extruded as a sheet. Particleboard is an inexpensive

material ideal for many projects, including edgy décor accents, furniture, cabinets, flooring,

roofing and insulation. And don’t underestimate its sound-deadening properties. In certain

minimalist, contemporary or urban applications, particleboard can look fantastic unfinished,

but when paired with veneers, it offers a high-end look at an affordable price.

What is OSB?

OSB (Oriented Strand Board) is produced by laying strands of resin-soaked wood in layers that

are then extruded as a sheet and cut to size. The specific orientation of the strands produces a

strength similar to plywood. OSB is most commonly used in new construction for walls, roof

sheathing and subflooring applications, but like particleboard, in certain applications, OSB can

look fantastic unfinished or laminated for great-looking results.

What is a veneer core?

A veneer core is constructed by stacking layers of plies created from the wood of any number of

species. The veneer plies are laid in alternating cross-band patterns for stability and strength.

Any decorative thin face veneer can then be applied to the front and back of the panel.

Compared to MDF and particleboard, a veneer core offers exceptional strength, weight and

screw-holding advantages.

Are all Project Panels the same color?

No, each panel is made from species and trees with their own characteristics and grains.

However, the color of a species is relatively consistent, though not uniform. Therefore, if

possible, we suggest that you hand select your panels to ensure color consistency in cases

where that’s important to your overall satisfaction with your finished project.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Project Panels Is plywood insect (termite) resistant? Unless you choose pressure-treated panels, project panels are not insect resistant. However, for indoor use, most wood products aren’t likely to become infested with insects or termites. Avoid the risk by using common household insect control measures. What is MDF? MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is an engineered wood product made from a mixture of hardwood and softwood fibers glued together with strong resin.
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What is Sande plywood? Often confused as a spelling error of the word “sanded,” sande plywood comes from the Sande (Brosimum utile) tree, native to the tropical regions of the Americas. Are Project Panels waterproof? Any plywood that isn't treated or marine grade is going to be inadequate for long-term use outdoors. That being said, birch, Sande, underlayment, OSB and BCX are commonly used in covered or moderately protected outside applications.