Baltic birch plywood is the highest-quality version of birch plywood available. Its face veneers are typically 1.5mm thick, and its veneers are thicker than standard birch plywood. Because of this, Baltic birch is more stable and has less voids than its standard birch counterpart.
Baltic birch plywood is an excellent option for plywood. It is considerably stronger than standard birch plywood and is available in many different species. Because it’s harder to find, however, Baltic birch can be more expensive than regular birch plywood. If you’re buying plywood for cabinetry, you should opt for Baltic birch. It’s ideal for small furniture and cabinetry projects.
Baltic birch has twice as many plys as regular birch plywood, and the outer layers are twice as thick. Consequently, a typical 3/4-inch sheet of Baltic birch plywood has between five and seven plys. However, a Baltic birch board has thirteen plys.
Baltic birch is imported into the United States in 5′ x 5′ sheets, but it’s also available in 4′ x 8′ and 5′ x 10′ sheets. Despite the higher cost, larger sheets don’t necessarily mean better quality. A 5′ x 5′ sheet costs about $3.60 per square foot, while a 4′ x 8′ sheet costs around $3.90. This is the most widely produced size of birch plywood and is imported from Europe.
Baltic birch is known for its stability and strength, making it an excellent material for cabinet making. It’s also popular for router fences and jigs. It also provides a smooth workbench surface, making it a popular choice for table saw push sticks and tool stands. However, it’s difficult to stain because it does not absorb stain well.
Birch plywood has a reputation for being able to resist water better than other types of plywood. Its waterproof glue and thinner layers mean that it is less susceptible to cracking and pulling apart in humid environments. Its natural density also makes it an excellent choice for furniture.
Both birch and maple plywood are highly durable and popular for many applications. People use both for flooring, table tops, accents, and trim. While choosing between the two, homeowners should consider color, function, and cost before deciding on which wood to use. Both wood types are made from thin layers of wood veneer that are pressed together in alternating directions. The wood core varies in quality, but a high-quality plywood is strong and won’t rot or warp.
If you choose birch plywood, you’ll need to apply a sealer. This will help prevent the wood from absorbing stain. The same goes for varnish. It should be applied immediately after the wood conditioner. This way, the stain will be more uniform and won’t be streaked or blotchy. For a water-resistant finish, use a clear top coat.
Although wood does absorb water, the amount depends on the wood type and grain. Open-grained woods tend to absorb more water than closed-grained woods. Additionally, the age of the wood has a bearing on water absorption. Younger wood is more likely to absorb water than older wood. When moisture levels change, the wood shrinks and expands. This shrinkage is most apparent in the direction of the growth rings.
Birch plywood is a very popular choice for building projects. Its traditional look makes it a good choice for budget-conscious homeowners. It is also durable and can last for decades. Moreover, it is easy to build with and stain. The price range for birch plywood varies. A 3/4-inch-thick sheet can cost between $90 and $125.
The exterior grade of plywood uses a resole-type phenolic resin. Often, this resin is combined with a swell-resistant filler, such as coconut shell. Other fillers include oat hulls, chalk, or wheat flour. These extenders help the glue’s adhesiveness and reduce the plywood’s porosity.