information/FAQs

The types and sizes of plywood panels

The four standardised types of plywood produced in Australia are:

structural plywood produced to AS/NZS 2269;
marine plywood produced to AS/NZS 2272;
exterior plywood produced to AS 2271; and
interior plywood produced to AS 2270.

The other standardised glue laminated veneer product is structural laminated veneer lumber (LVL). It is produced to AS 4357. A complete description of the characteristics of each of the products is contained in publications available from the Plywood Association of Australia (PAA).

Panel Sizes: Length & Width

Standard available panel dimensions for plywood produced by PAA members are Length: 2400, 2100and 1800mm

Widths: 1200 and 900mm

Panels of 2700mm length are available from a limited number of manufacturers. Non standard sized panels are also available from a limited number of manufacturers. Larger panels are available in non-jointed or scarf-jointed forms.

A special length panel 2250mm long is available in some flooring plywood thicknesses to suit the standard floor joist spacing of 450mm.

Plywood bracing is available in panels 2440mm in length to give good top and bottom plate coverage.

Panel Sizes: Thickness

Standard thickness for Interior, Exterior and Marine plywoods, are

3, 4, 6, 9, 12, 16, 19 and 25mm.

Standard thickness for Structural plywoods are

4.5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 21 and 25mm.

The 4.5mm structural plywoods are usually manufactured specifically for bracing. Standard flooring thicknesses start at 15mm.