The main differences between sanded and unsanded plywood

Often used in interior finishing and construction, plywood is a multipurpose material. Sanded and unsanded plywood are the two primary types you may come across when selecting the appropriate kind. Because of their distinct qualities, each kind can be used in a variety of ways.

Because of its smooth surface, sanded plywood is perfect for projects where aesthetics are important, like furniture or visible wall panels. However, unsanded plywood has a coarser texture and is more frequently used as underlayment or in structural work where the surface won’t be visible.

Knowing the distinctions between these two kinds of plywood will enable you to choose the material that best suits your needs for your project with knowledge and confidence.

Features of material production

Technology used in the production of plywood calls for specialized machinery. Every procedure is performed strictly in compliance with TU and GOST standards; any deviations cause flaws to manifest.

1. Raw materials are being prepared. Deciduous and coniferous wood without rot is used for the work.
2. The material is fed to the first line of the plant, where the bark and branches are removed.
3. The logs are cut into blocks, which are soaked in liquid to obtain a uniform moisture content, which guarantees uniform processing.
4. The blanks are moved to machines where peeling is performed: a thin layer is gradually removed from the rotating log. The veneer is obtained in the form of strips or slabs.
5. Using quality tables, the resulting products are divided into classes, serious defects are rejected.
6. The layers are dried, glue is applied. Bakelite varnish-based sheets are completely or partially immersed in containers with the prepared composition, for a normal connection, the veneer is simply coated.
7. The resulting panels are placed under a cold or hot press, where the final size is formed.
8. Part of the slabs are transferred to the area where the surface is sanded. For this, equipment with different attachments is used: depending on the task, processing is carried out on one or both sides.
9. After a full preparation cycle, the material is faced with decorative films or coated with certain compounds.

The final goods are labeled НШ for unsanded plywood, Ш-1 for one-sided processing, and Ш-2 for double-sided processing. It is considered that the material needs to be arranged in stacks in accordance with the current labels.

It’s critical to comprehend the main distinctions between sanded and unsanded plywood when selecting either for your wall finishing projects. Unsanded plywood has a rougher texture and is better suited for structural applications where the surface will be hidden, whereas sanded plywood offers a smooth, polished surface that makes it ideal for visible areas where aesthetics matter. Being aware of these variations enables you to choose the best kind of plywood for your particular requirements.

The difference between sanded plywood and unsanded

Both materials exhibit the same primary performance attributes.

The following is how the products differ from one another:

• Degree of processing of the sides. This is the main distinguishing feature. Unsanded surface has a dark rough coating.
• Cost. Unsanded products are more affordable, but only if used for rough work. If you lay the boards before subsequent finishing, then for high-quality preparation you will need to not only make significant efforts, but also use special equipment with a large number of consumables. From a financial point of view, it will be much more profitable to purchase sheets with sanding.
• Scope of use. Products with a high degree of processing are used for any processes, the area of ​​laying boards with the "NSh" marking is more limited.
• Size according to standards (GOST number 3916.1-96 for panels made of hardwood veneer). With a thickness of 12 mm (9 layers), the maximum deviation for sanded plywood is 0.5–0.7 mm, and the thickness variation is 0.6 mm. For an untreated sheet – 0.6–1.1 mm and 1 mm, respectively.

There are some variances in the boards’ quality: low-quality products (4/4) typically don’t go through the enterprise’s initial preparation.

Scope of application

The areas of use of the materials differ most noticeably.

Double-sided sanded products can be used to solve a variety of issues:

1. Furniture production. Cabinets, chests of drawers, tables, cabinets, kitchen units – this is an incomplete list of what is made from such plywood. It is taken into account that you can create interior items with your own hands.
2. Making crafts and souvenirs. The resulting decor can be purely decorative or perform some function.
3. Wall paneling and creating partitions. The presence of sanding will facilitate the work during subsequent painting or varnishing.
4. Laying on the floor. Sheets with a thickness of 15 mm or more are used for this process. The resulting surface can be a finishing coating or used as a base for laying laminate, linoleum and other products.
5. Transport finishing. Due to the fact that the treated surface has fewer protruding fibers, the material is more resistant to moisture.

Products made of plywood that haven’t gone through the entire factory preparation process are appropriate for the following tasks:

• Creating rough bases. This is the most popular area. The slabs are suitable for laying on the floor. It is allowed to combine with subsequent sheathing with sanded plywood, which is especially important for two-layer cladding.
• Manufacturing of hidden furniture parts. This method allows you to reduce the cost of interior items.
• Formation of formwork when pouring the foundation for buildings or fences.
• Creation of decorative and functional items for the home. To achieve the desired quality of finishing, you will need to additionally sand the slabs.

It is recognized that unprocessed goods necessitate a more meticulous selection process because many producers employ raw materials that don’t always match the specified specifications.

Guidance! Slabs designated Ш-1 are advised in order to reduce expenses and produce quality work.

Plywood that has been sanded or left unfinished has distinct uses and benefits. Because sanded plywood is even and smooth, it’s perfect for projects where aesthetics are important, like furniture or wall finishes inside homes. You can save time and effort by painting or staining it because of its refined surface.

However, unsanded plywood is less expensive and rougher, so it’s a better option for structural work or places where aesthetics aren’t as important. Because of its dependability and affordability, it’s widely used for roofing, subflooring, and foundational building layers.

Which option is best for you will depend on your individual needs. Sanded plywood is the best option if a polished finish is what you’re after. If your top priorities are economy and durability, unsanded plywood will work just fine. Selecting the appropriate material for your project is made easier when you are aware of these distinctions.

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