Veneer and Plywood: Material Differences, Uses & Costs Compared
If you are thinking about buying furniture or planning a home renovation, you might have heard the terms like plywood and veneer. But what exactly are these materials? How are they different? And which one should you choose?
What is plywood?
Plywood is actually engineered wood made by glueing together several thin layers of wood called veneers. These layers are stacked with grain running in alternate directions which makes plywood strong stable and least likely to warp or crack. Because of its strength and versatility plywood is widely used in furniture making construction loading and cabinetry.
What is veneer?
It is a thin sheet of natural wood sliced from a log. It is usually just 0.3 to 0.6mm thick. It is often glued onto cheaper wood or plywood surfaces to give furniture or walls or real wood would look without the cost of solid wood. You can think of veneer like beautiful wood skin that covers the surface.
How are we near and plywood used together?
Many times veneer and plywood are combined to get the best of with the world’s. A plywood sheet basically forms the strong base of furniture and thin veneer sheets are glued on top for a beautiful finish. This combination is very popular because it gives you a strong furniture that looks solid and you can get it at a lower price.
Cost comparison
Veneer an be very expensive depending on the wood species exotic woods like rosewood cost more. Since veneer is thin it uses less wood overall but requires skill to apply which can add to the cost. Plywood is usually cheaper as compared to the veneer sheets. The price depends on the plywood grade like moisture resistant is affordable and good but water resistant or waterproof plywood is more expensive. So overall furniture with a veneer finish over plywood costs more than plain plywood furniture.