Termite Resistant Plywood vs Normal Plywood: Key Differences You Should Know

Plywood is a common material in construction and furniture, but not all types are the same. Normal plywood is widely used for its strength and versatility, yet it can be vulnerable to pests and moisture over time. Understanding the differences between standard plywood and termite resistant plywood is important for making informed choices in your projects.

Termite resistant plywood is designed to withstand termite attacks, offering longer-lasting protection and reliability in areas prone to infestation. It is treated to reduce damage, making it a suitable choice where durability matters. At Greenply, we ensure our termite proof plywood meets these standards, providing a product that addresses these challenges while maintaining consistent quality.

Key Differences Between Termite Resistant Plywood and Normal Plywood

Understanding how normal plywood and termite resistant plywood differ is essential for choosing the right material for your project, especially in areas exposed to moisture or pests. Here are the main differences explained clearly:

1. Material Composition

Normal plywood consists of multiple layers of wood veneers glued together, often following MR plywood standards. Termite resistant plywood, on the other hand, uses specially treated veneers to reduce pest damage and increase its durability, ensuring longer service life in challenging environments.

2. Water Resistance

Normal plywood can warp, swell, or weaken when exposed to moisture, affecting its durability. Termite resistant plywood is designed to resist water, with properties similar to BWR plywood, allowing it to maintain strength and shape even in damp or humid conditions. This makes it more reliable for long-term use.

3. Bonding and Adhesives

Standard plywood uses MR grade adhesives, which are sufficient for general use. Termite resistant plywood employs stronger adhesives, like BWP plywood bonding, which improve structural strength and ensure the layers remain firmly intact under moisture or stress conditions.

4. Treatment Against Termites

Normal plywood has no built-in protection, making it vulnerable to termite damage over time. Termite resistant plywood receives specialised plywood treatment for termites during manufacturing, allowing preservatives to penetrate each layer. This treatment helps maintain strength, prevents infestation, and ensures the plywood remains reliable even in termite-prone areas.

5. Longevity and Durability

Normal plywood may require frequent replacement in environments with high termite activity or humidity. Termite resistant plywood is designed to last longer, needing minimal maintenance, and providing a reliable option for projects where durability and resistance to pests are important.

6. Applications

Normal plywood is commonly chosen for indoor furniture or low-risk areas where pest exposure is limited. Termite resistant plywood is better suited for regions prone to termite infestation or higher moisture, making it ideal for furniture, cabinets, and other construction applications in such conditions.

7. Cost Differences

Normal plywood is usually more budget-friendly due to the absence of special treatments. Termite resistant plywood may be higher in cost because of its protective features, water resistance, and stronger bonding, but it provides longer-term reliability and reduces replacement expenses.

8. Maintenance Needs

Normal plywood requires regular checks for termite activity and may need protective coatings to maintain its condition. Termite-resistant plywood demands far less intervention, offering a durable, worry-free option with minimal maintenance over its lifespan.

Greenply Termite-Resistant Plywood Collection

At Greenply, our termite resistant plywood is designed to offer strength and reliability in furniture and construction projects. Treated during production for termite resistance, each sheet maintains its strength and durability over time, ensuring dependable performance in environments exposed to pests.

Some of the best plywood for furniture from our range at Greenply that resist termite infestation include:

• Greenply Club 700 Plywood

• Greenply Platinum Plywood

• Greenply Gold Plywood

• Greenply 710 Marine Plywood

Conclusion

Choosing the right plywood requires understanding the differences between standard and termite resistant types. Normal plywood works well in low-risk areas, while termite-resistant options are better suited for environments where pest activity or moisture may be a concern. Being aware of these distinctions helps in making practical decisions that ensure your project meets expectations without unexpected issues.

By considering these factors carefully, you can select the most appropriate plywood for your needs. At Greenply, we offer termite-resistant plywood that supports informed choices, helping achieve reliable results in furniture and construction projects while addressing challenges related to pests and environmental exposure.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between termite-resistant plywood and normal plywood?
Termite-resistant plywood is specially treated to reduce vulnerability to pests, while normal plywood does not have built-in protection. This treatment helps it maintain structural integrity over time, especially in areas prone to termite activity.

2. How does termite-resistant plywood handle moisture compared to normal plywood?
Termite-resistant plywood often comes with features similar to waterproof plywood, allowing it to resist dampness and humidity better than normal plywood. This helps prevent warping, swelling, and weakening over time, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, or areas with occasional moisture exposure.

3. Can anti termite plywood be used for all types of furniture?
Yes, anti termite plywood can be used for most indoor and outdoor furniture applications. Its treatment ensures it remains reliable against pests without needing additional protective measures. It is ideal for cabinets, wardrobes, and furniture in areas where termite exposure is a concern.

4. Is termite resistant plywood more expensive than normal plywood?
Typically, termite resistant plywood costs more due to its treatment process and enhanced performance. However, this investment reduces long-term maintenance and replacement needs compared to normal plywood, which may require extra protective coatings or repairs over time.

5. How can I identify termite-resistant plywood when buying?
Termite-resistant plywood is often labelled as treated for pests or anti-termite. Manufacturers may indicate their suitability for termite-prone areas, and it usually has a consistent finish and treatment marks that show it has been processed to resist infestation.