Plywood is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of projects, from home repairs to new construction. But with so many different types of plywood available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your project. This guide will help you select the right type of plywood for your project, based on its intended use.
The Different Grades of Plywood Available at Home Depot
There are three main grades of plywood available at most home improvement stores: CDX, OSB, and particle board.
CDX is the most common type of plywood used for construction projects. It is made from multiple layers of thin wood veneers glued together with waterproof adhesives. While it is not as strong as OSB or particle board, it is more resistant to moisture and warping.
OSB is a type of engineered wood that is made from multiple layers of wood chips glued together with waterproof adhesives. It is stronger than CDX plywood and can be used for a variety of applications, including flooring, walls, and roofs.
Particle board is a type of engineered wood made from small pieces of wood, or “wood chips,” glued together with waterproof adhesives. It is the least strong of the three types of plywood, but it is also the cheapest. Particle board is often used for shelving and furniture.
How Much is Plywood at Home Depot
The cost of plywood at Home Depot varies depending on the type and thickness of plywood you select. CDX plywood is typically the cheapest, while OSB and particle board are more expensive. The cost also varies based on the thickness of the plywood; thinner plywood is usually less expensive than thicker plywood.
To get an idea of how much plywood costs at Home Depot, here are a few examples:
- A 4’x8’ sheet of CDX plywood 3/8” thick costs around $22.
- A 4’x8’ sheet of OSB 3/4” thick costs around $32.
- A 4’x8’ sheet of particle board 1/2” thick costs around $25.
Selecting the Right Type of Plywood for Your Project
Now that you know the different types of plywood available and how much they cost, you can start to narrow down your selection based on your project needs.
If you are working on a project that will be exposed to moisture, like a bathroom vanity or an outdoor shed, you will want to choose a type of plywood that is resistant to water damage. CDX plywood is a good option for these types of projects.
If you are working on a project that requires a very strong and sturdy material, like a load-bearing wall or a piece of furniture, you will want to choose OSB or particle board. These types of plywood are much stronger than CDX and can support heavier weights.
Once you have selected the right type of plywood for your project, you can then start to think about the thickness. Thicker plywood is usually more expensive, but it is also more durable and can support more weight. If you are working on a project that requires a lot of strength, like a load-bearing wall, you will want to choose a thicker plywood.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on Plywood at Home Depot
- Look for coupons and discounts before you head to the store. Home Depot often offers sales on plywood, so you can save money if you plan ahead.
- Comparison shop at different stores. You may be able to find a better deal on plywood at a different store, so it’s worth checking around.
- Buy in bulk. If you know you’ll need a lot of plywood for your project, it’s usually cheaper to buy it all at once. Home Depot often offers discounts when you buy multiple sheets of plywood.
- Think about alternatives. If you can’t find the right type or size of plywood at Home Depot, you may be able to find it at a different store or online.
