Blockboard VS Plywood – Which is better for your Furniture and Budget?

1) Blockboard VS Plywood - Material

Plywood is a sheet material manufactured from thin layers or ‘plies’ of wood glued together with an adhesive. It has different types, based on the wood used to build it, such as hardwood, softwood, alternate core and poplar ply. Popular types of ply used are commercial ply and marine ply

Blockboard consists of a core made of wooden strips or blocks, placed edge to edge between two layers of plywood, which are then glued together under high pressure. Generally, softwood is used in blockboards.

2) Blockboard VS Plywood - Uses

Different types of plywood are suited for different uses. Commercial ply, also referred to as MR grade plywood is used for most interior design work like TV units, cabinets, wardrobes, sofas, chairs etc. For areas susceptible to moisture, such as the bathroom and the kitchen, Marine ply.

Blockboards are usually preferred when lengthy pieces or wooden boards are required while making furniture. This is because blockboard is stiffer and less prone to bending, unlike plywood. Blockboard is generally used for building long book shelves, tables and benches, single and double beds, settees, and lengthy wall panels. It is light in weight, and is used extensively for building interior and exterior doors.

3) Blockboard VS Plywood - Properties

Plywood is less susceptible to damage by water, and is resistant to cracking. It is uniform throughout its length and breadth, and can be easily lacquered, painted, veneered and laminated. However, long pieces of plywood tend to bend at the centre. Plywood will also splinter badly when cut.

Blockboard is more prone to water damage as it is known to retain moisture. It is stiffer than plywood and less prone to bending. It is dimensionally stable, and can withstand cracking. Unlike plywood it does not split on cutting, and is easy to work with. It is available in various finishes such as plastic laminates, wood veneers, etc. It can also be painted and polished. It is lighter than plywood as its core is made of softwood.

4) Blockboard VS Plywood - Maintenance and Life

Both plywood and blockboard are durable and can be cleaned easily. It is ideal not to expose either of them much to water unless using Marine Grade Plywood.

Both have a low maintenance cost.