Furniture fails at the joints and edges, not in the middle of a sheet. That is why the useful questions about furniture plywood concern thickness, core quality and screw holding, more than the label.
Piece by piece
| Piece | Typical thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bed frame and platform | 18 to 19 mm, sometimes thicker | Load-bearing; use a stiff, well-bonded board |
| Dining and study tables | 18 to 25 mm tops | Wide spans may need edge reinforcement |
| Cabinet carcass | 18 mm | Hinges and drawer slides need good screw holding |
| Shelves | 18 mm; thinner for short spans | Long shelves sag without support |
| Back panels | 4 to 8 mm | Thin board; bracing, not load |
These are common practice ranges, not rules. Your design and span decide.
Grade by location
Dry bedroom or living room: MR is common. Rooms prone to humidity or ground-floor installations: BWR. Furniture near water: marine.
Buying considerations
- Check the sheet is flat before accepting
- Measure thickness at several points
- Look at the edges for gaps in the core
- Ask for brand marking and grade on the sheet
Related: furniture plywood, laminates for furniture and how to choose plywood for furniture.
Brands you can ask us about
Products from leading brands including the names below. Ask us which ranges and sizes are currently available.