Block Board Thickness Guide: Which One to Choose for Doors, Furniture & Wardrobes?

When choosing the best plywood for kitchen storage units, shelves, and drawers, the thickness of the block boards is important in ensuring the durability, strength and a pleasing finish. Selecting block boards to use on your doors or furniture, requires an understanding of the specifications of each thickness in order to make the most appropriate decision for your project. At Greenply, we offer high-quality block board solutions with the ability to cater to various needs and provide the best strength and consistency for all interior projects.

What is a Block Board?

Block board is an engineered wood product made from a core of softwood blocks, which are sandwiched between two layers of veneer. This composition makes the block board both lightweight and strong. A block board for kitchen applications, such as countertops or cabinets, ensures both stability and a smooth finish.

Block board thickness in mm usually varies from 16mm to 25mm, and each thickness serves different purposes, depending on the project requirements.

Common Block Board Thickness and Their Uses

Understanding the difference between various standard block board thicknesses is important for making an informed decision. 

1. 16mm Block Board

16mm block board is commonly used for lightweight applications, including internal shelves, small tables, or cupboard shutters where minimal load-bearing is required. It’s also useful for plywood for kitchen interiors that do not require heavy-duty support.

2. 19mm Block Board

19mm strikes a balance between weight and strength. It is most commonly used for block board for door thickness, cabinetry, and furniture that needs to bear moderate weight. This thickness provides the strength required for items like wardrobe panels, small doors, and shelving units. At Greenply, we offer Greenply Gold Blockboard in 19mm thickness, ideal for use in furniture and doors where moderate strength and stability are required. 

3. 25mm Block Board

For heavy-duty applications, such as main doors or large wardrobes, 25mm block board is the preferred choice. Its thicker core provides additional durability, making it ideal for furniture or doors that will endure frequent use and heavier loads. This thickness is typically used in larger storage units or shelving systems that require significant strength.

How to Choose the Best Thickness for Block Board

When deciding on the best thickness for block board, it’s essential to match the right thickness to the intended use. Here’s a breakdown of common applications and recommended thicknesses:

1. For Doors and Wardrobes

For a block board for wardrobe thickness or door thickness 19mm is the standard. It offers a good balance of strength without being too heavy. For larger doors or wardrobes that need to support more weight, 25mm is ideal. At Greenply, we offer Optima G MR Grade Blockboard in 25mm thickness, perfect for applications that require moisture resistance, strength, and longevity. 

2. For Furniture

For furniture like side tables, display shelves, or light cabinets, 16mm works well as it offers a good finish and sufficient strength for non-load-bearing applications. For larger furniture items, such as bookshelves or TV units, 19mm is better for providing additional durability.

3. For Kitchen Storage

When considering plywood for kitchen shelves or plywood for kitchen countertops, 19mm is a suitable option for medium-duty storage solutions. However, for heavy-duty use in kitchen storage or countertops, 25mm offers the extra strength required for long-term use.

Why Thickness Matters for Block Board

Selecting the right block board sheet thickness directly impacts the strength, load-bearing capacity, and aesthetic finish of your project. Here’s why thickness matters:

• Strength: Thicker block boards provide greater support, especially for items such as wardrobes, large doors, and heavy furniture.
  

• Durability: A thicker board ensures better longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
  

• Weight: Thicker boards are heavier, which may be desirable for larger, sturdier furniture but could be overkill for smaller items.
  

Conclusion

Choosing the right block board thickness ensures the durability and functionality of your doors, furniture, and wardrobes. 16mm is suitable for lightweight furniture, while 19mm is the most versatile option for medium-duty applications such as shelves and doors. For heavy-duty requirements like large doors and storage units, 25mm is the optimal choice. At Greenply, we offer a range of block boards in various thicknesses to suit your needs, ensuring that your furniture and storage solutions are strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.

FAQs

1. What thickness of block board is best for doors?
19mm is commonly used for doors, offering a good balance between strength and weight. For heavier doors, 25mm is recommended.

2. Can a 16mm block board be used for wardrobes?
Yes, 16mm can be used for lighter wardrobes, but for larger, heavier wardrobes, 19mm is preferred.

3. What makes a 19mm block board suitable for kitchen shelves?
19mm provides the right balance of strength and weight for kitchen shelves, making it suitable for holding kitchenware and other items.

4. What is the advantage of using a 25mm block board for storage units?
25mm offers superior strength and durability, making it ideal for heavy-duty storage units that need to bear significant weight.

5. Why is moisture-resistant block board important for kitchen countertops?
Moisture-resistant block board is essential for kitchen countertops as it prevents warping and swelling due to exposure to moisture, ensuring long-lasting use.