Plywood Information
A-Grade Face
An “A” face on plywood should be matched for both grain and colour. All veneer splices should be book-matched for a visually pleasing appearance. There should not be any abrupt changes in colour or grain between the splices.
An “A” face will not permit sound knots, repaired knots or rough-cut veneer. An A face may allow slight mineral streak and/or vine marks.
The number of defects such as pin knots or small burls varies according to the specie of veneer.
This is the best face grade on plywood normally stocked and is often used for upper-end cabinetry, architectural millwork, and quality furniture.
B-Grade Face
“B” face on plywood should be matched for a pleasing colour, but not necessarily for grain. “B” grade faces are generally very similar to “A” faces, but do allow some sound or repaired knots and some slight rough cut veneer. “B” grade faces will also allow slight mineral streak and vine marks.
"C' Grade Face
“C” face on plywood allows for unlimited pin knots and small burls. “C” face can also contain repaired knots and sound knots. The “C” grade will also allow unlimited mineral and vine marks. “C” face should be a sound smooth face. “C” face is used primarily on paint grade type panels, in lower-end case work, and for cabinet interiors in upper-end cabinetry
"D" Grade Face
“D” face on hardwood is similar to the “C” face, but will allow some rough cut veneer and a few more repaired and sound knots.
Hoop Pine
Hoop pine is a straight grained wood, evenly textured and very fine. The growth rings are not distinct, but they are visible, and the figure is mottled and plain. The heartwood ranges from light yellow brown to pale cream, and although there is little difference in colour between the heartwood and the sapwood, the heartwood is a little darker. Sapwood 7.5 - 15mm wide is often flecked and light brown in colour.
Birch
Birch timber is a slow growing species found in the snow capped forests across Russia and most of Northern Europe in particular countries bordering the Baltic region. This frigid climate encourages close grained and consistant high quality timber. Today Birch is recognised as the premium plywood choice and preferred by Architects, Designers, Planners, Builders and Engineers for multiple design applications including commercial and domestic furniture and joinery. Birch's properties are highly appreciated in industries where special strength and durability of a material is required.