Working on a DIY project? While tried-and-tested plywood is perfectly functional and hard to replace, it’s good to know what alternative wood materials like formply can do for you. To help you choose the right material for your project, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the difference between formply vs plywood. Read ahead to learn about their composition, uses, and more.
What is plywood?
Made out of multiple layers or “plies” of wood, plywood is a composite material where the layers of wood are glued together to make one solid panel. It’s a reliable material due to its excellent dimensional stability, which enables it to resist warping under varying temperature and humidity levels, as well as its resistance to splitting.
What is plywood used for?
Plywood comes in structural and non-structural variants. Because of its durable qualities, structural plywood is often used as a supportive layer underneath final finishes in construction for both home and commercial purposes. It can be used in the following:
- Floors – plywood can function as subflooring, where it attaches to the structure’s joists to provide a flat and even surface for your final flooring to be installed over.
- Walls – plywood can serve as wall sheathing that you attach to wall studs to create an even and stable surface to apply your wall cladding or siding.
- Roofs – used for roof decking or sheathing and are attached to roof rafters or trusses to form a solid base for the rest of your roofing system.
On the other hand, non-structural plywood can be used decoratively or functionally for furniture and interior decor. Plywood is available in different varieties and can be finished with wood veneers or paint to enhance its outward appearance. With how versatile plywood is, its uses are almost limitless.
Pros & Cons of Plywood
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Versatile & can be used in a variety of applications | Needs additional treatment for moisture resistance |
| Appearance is flexible – it comes in different grades and finishes to suit your aesthetic | Has load-bearing limits, may not be suitable for extra heavy-duty applications |
| Affordable yet durable | Can degrade easily when exposed to harsh environments |
Our go-to plywood in Perth: Selex Plywood
Whether you’re working on structural or non-structural work, we at Westgyp recommend Selex Plywood sheets. Made from radiata pine, it’s an all-rounder solution for any application.
Strong and available in different thicknesses, Selex Plywood is ideal for flooring, decorative wall and ceiling linings, furniture, and more.
Key Features:
- Structurally certified to AS/NZS 2269, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Excellent sanding uniformity, thanks to advanced finishing technology
- FSC and PEFC chain-of-custody certified
- Low-emission phenol resins
What is formply?
Formply, on the other hand, is actually a type of plywood, the only difference being that it has a phenolic resin laminate coating on both sides of the panel. Formply also uses type-A marine bond glue, which is the strongest bond available for plywood. All of this combined leads to a sturdy panel that resists cracking even when nails are driven into it, and can resist prolonged exposure to heat and cold.
What is formply used for?
Much like its name suggests, formply is usually used for formwork. Specifically designed for concrete formwork, the phenolic resin coating keeps the concrete from sticking to its surface, allowing it to be reused multiple times. Formwork’s use ranges from bridge construction, thanks to its water-resistant nature, and building construction, such as table form and jump form.
While it’s traditionally used for formwork, formply can also be used in different construction applications like linings, accents, and more. Check out our blog on formply and its other uses beyond formwork to learn more.
Pros & Cons of Using Formply
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Highly resistant to water, moisture, and harsh elemental conditions in outdoor settings | Comes in limited finishes, will need extra finishing to adapt to a specific aesthetic |
| Durable and can bear heavy loads | More expensive than regular plywood (but makes up for its durability and reusability) |
| Highly reusable when used in formwork | Can be difficult to bond or paint without significant surface prep due to its finish |
Our go-to formply in Perth: Laminex FormPly
With so many options to choose from, it’s important to find a reliable brand that you can trust to always deliver quality materials. Here at Westgyp, we recommend Laminex FormPly for your construction projects in Perth.
Suitable for F-grade load-bearing applications typically required in formwork, Laminex FormPly promises a strong and durable panel for all your formwork and other construction needs.
Key Features:
- An internal ply structure that also prevents deformation.
- Engineered to resist moisture penetration and damage, making it suitable for heavy-duty repeated use
- A smooth surface guarantees a clean concrete release.
- Sustainably sourced by Laminex in managed forests
Formply vs Plywood
To sum it up, here’s a table to illustrate the difference between formply and plywood:
| Plywood | Formply | |
| Composition | Thin sheets of wood glued together that form a solid panel. Core varies by grade and can often be softwood or a mix | Same as plywood, but the core is typically made with hardwood veneers that are stronger and more stable |
| Surface & finishes | Can be in a bare wood face, but also offered in a spectrum of finishes for decorative use | Smooth and black due to phenolic resin laminate |
| Durability & Resistance |
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| Uses |
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| Cost | Lower cost per sheet | Higher cost per sheet due to stronger material, but makes up for reusability |
Things to Consider Before Buying Plywood & Formply
1. Project Needs
Your project type will dictate which material you’ll need to get. For load-bearing applications, structural plywood or formply is recommended, while non-structural plywood works for decorative purposes. Additionally, you also need to consider where your finished work would be placed. If outdoors, ensure your material can withstand WA’s weather conditions and is sufficiently treated and finished.
2. Structural Standards
To ensure the durability and stability of your project, check if your plywood or formply supplies are certified or tested to meet local standards. This is especially important if you’re working on structural features. You may check AS/NZS 2269 for more information on the specified requirements for the manufacture and grading of structural plywood.
3. Sustainability
It’s also necessary to evaluate if your materials are sustainably sourced. To minimise environmental impact, choose plywood or formply brands that are sourced from sustainably managed forests.
Ensure durability in your construction with Westgyp
Whether you’re looking for regular plywood or specialised plywood like formply, Westgyp Building Supplies is your best pick for all your building supply needs in WA.
We offer competitive prices for the best brands and materials available, so your DIY projects can look good, last longer, and still be affordable.
With over 30 years of experience with construction materials, we’re sure to provide you with what you’re looking for, and our team of experts are more than happy to offer assistance to any project you plan on doing.
Visit our store at 39 Ledgar Rd, Balcatta, WA and view our selection of building materials, or contact us today.