The world of construction is very demanding. Materials are chosen based on their performance, not sales pitches. This rule definitely applies to plywood that is used for shuttering purposes.
Shuttering is subjected to various pressures from fresh concrete and should be reusable. Hence, comparing and choosing between different types of plywood makes sense for construction companies.
While clients are trying to find the best shuttering plywood manufacturers for bulk purchases, others consider film-faced options. These two products may look similar at first, but their differences are quite significant. So what should you choose?
What is Shuttering Plywood?
Shuttering plywood is designed specifically for creating temporary constructions that will support concrete till it dries out. The board is made with hardwood veneers and waterproof adhesive; hence, it should be sturdy, reliable and reusable.
The ply is used for slabs, columns, beams, and walls. For many contractors, regular plywood products represent a good choice in terms of performance and affordability.
What is Film-Faced Sheet?
Film-faced plywood sheets have an additional film coating. This phenolic film is applied onto the surface and makes it smoother and water-resistant. As a result, such boards produce a better finish while also reducing the dismantling effort of contractors. Film-faced plywood is popular for high-rise buildings, commercial and industrial projects, infrastructure constructions and reusing purposes.
Differences Between Two Types Of Shuttering Plywood
The choice of plywood for your needs depends on your specific priorities.
- Surface Finish: Regular plywood produces an acceptable concrete surface; film-faced options provide better results here.
- Reuse: Both plywood products can be reused, but the film-faced sheet will survive more cycles due to its surface.
- Price: Standard shuttering plywood is more affordable than film-faced variety initially; however, reuse can offset higher prices.
- Cleaning: Film-faced sheets do not have any problems with cleaning after the project.
How To Choose Your Shuttering Sheets
Depending on your preferences, either product can be selected. If you want cheaper products, lower initial investment, residential construction, moderate reuse cycles and reliable daily performance, choose standard plywood.
When you need a good concrete finish, high frequency of reuse, resistance to moisture, faster dismantling and cleaning, consider buying film-faced boards.
The trick here is that your choice should always rely on the professional advice of the manufacturer. In other words, you should not buy whatever seems better, but consult a company that provides different varieties for all kinds of needs.
How To Find A Reliable Shuttering Plywood Manufacturer
To find a good manufacturer, consider these criteria:
- Thickness consistency
- Quality of veneer and bonding
- Water resistance properties
- Ability to supply bulk amounts of boards
- Testing standards and certification of products
- Company reputation in the market
Many clients simply pay attention to the price, but then regret it when they notice that sheets begin to warp. Sometimes an extra cost per square foot may save you a lot of trouble on-site.
Conclusion
Overall, the choice between these products mostly depends on your project requirements. Regular sheets represent an excellent choice when you need affordable options and reliable performance; film-faced sheets offer a better finish and reuse.
Nevertheless, remember that quality is more important than the type of product. Experienced clients always buy from trusted shuttering plywood manufacturers who know how to make durable and sturdy sheets. Assam Wood And Allied Products is a leading company that manufactures and supplies a wide range of plywood, such as Laminated Commercial Plywood, Commercial Plywood, shuttering plywood, waterproof commercial plywood, and film-faced commercial plywood and many others.