Closets are an important element of every house — not only for the purpose of storage but also for the purpose of creating an orderly, beautiful, and practical interior. But behind every beautifully finished wardrobe is a material that defines the durability of the wardrobe, its functionality and its appearance. That material is often plywood. When it comes to constructing a wardrobe, one of the most crucial aspects is the selection of the type of sheets of plywood.
Not all plywood is the same, especially when it comes to plywood used in furniture such as wardrobes. Choosing the right type can make the difference between a wardrobe that will last for years and one that will wrinkle, split or break after a few wears.
Understanding Plywood Strength and Stability
When it comes to wardrobes, one needs a material that is strong and stable enough to hold the clothes. Plywood sheets are made from thin layers of wood veneer that are bonded together, with the grain direction of each layer being at right angles to the adjacent layer. This provides the sheet with high strength and resistance to bending – a characteristic that is important for wardrobe shutters, shelves, and carcasses.
The higher the quality, the more uniform the core, which results in fewer gaps, improved screw-holding capacity, and enhanced surface finishes. This is especially important when you are screwing hinges, drawer runners, or any other fixtures on your wardrobe.
Choosing the Right Thickness
Closets are not standardised, and neither is plywood. In the case of vertical panels and shutters, the thickness should be 19mm. This offers enough durability for doors that are opened and closed on a daily basis. For internal shelves and dividers, plywood sheets of 12mm to 16mm thickness are used, depending on the load that is to be placed on the shelves.
It is possible to use a thinner sheet to cut costs, but this may lead to sagging shelves or weak joints in the future. It is important to ensure that the plywood thickness corresponds to its intended use.
Plywood for Furniture Must Handle Daily Wear
Wardrobes are utilised daily — and this means that they are exposed to humidity, temperature changes, and physical contact. The plywood for furniture should be moisture-resistant and should not easily wear out due to frequent use. That is why it is advisable to use moisture-resistant (MR) or boiling waterproof (BWP) plywood, especially for wardrobes in coastal or humid climate zones.
These types of plywood also prevent the growth of mould or mildew, thus protecting your clothes and accessories and keeping your furniture clean and hygienic.
End is as Important as the Beginning
Another factor that cannot be overlooked is the ability of the plywood to accept laminates, veneers, or paints. A defect-free surface is easier to finish and gives a superior aesthetic to the wardrobe. The best plywood sheets have smooth surfaces that do not blister or twist when laminated, providing you with a perfect finish and lasting durability.
Your wardrobe should not only be practical but also fashionable, and should reflect your personality. If you like glossy laminates, textured finishes, or wood veneers, ensure that the plywood base will be able to accommodate your design choice.
Some of the things that one should consider while choosing plywood are as follows:
- Choose moisture-resistant or waterproof plywood for wardrobes if you live in a humid climate or if the wardrobe will be placed in a humid area.
- For shutters and structural panels, it is recommended to use 19mm plywood sheets.
- Make sure that the plywood has a smooth surface so that the finish applied on it will be smooth as well.
- When buying furniture, it is advisable to go for branded or certified plywood to enhance the reliability of the furniture.
- It is also important to check the sheet for flatness, fewer core gaps, and strong adhesion.
In the long run, wardrobes are a long-term investment in the comfort and practicality of an individual’s daily wear. It is important to take time and select the right type of plywood for furniture so that this investment can be durable in terms of design and quality.
If you are looking for wardrobes that are strong and at the same time can be stylishly designed, then you should consider gettingplywood sheets from CenturyPly. They are a reliable source for homes that seek quality furniture-grade plywood, offering a variety of options that are trusted by many.