Buy Film Faced Plywood Online: A Complete Guide

Buy Film faced Plywood online, Film-faced plywood is a versatile, durable, and high-quality building material that is commonly used in construction, furniture making, and various other projects. Its smooth surface, resistance to moisture, and high strength make it ideal for applications that require a reliable and long-lasting material. As construction and DIY projects are growing in popularity, many people turn to buying film-faced plywood online due to convenience, cost-effectiveness, and a wide selection of available products. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about purchasing film-faced plywood online, including its features, benefits, and FAQs.

What is Film Faced Plywood?

Film-faced plywood, also known as shuttering plywood or concrete formwork plywood, is a type of plywood that is coated with a thin layer of phenolic film on both sides. This film helps to protect the plywood from moisture, dirt, and wear, making it ideal for construction and formwork applications, where the plywood is exposed to harsh conditions such as rain, chemicals, and heavy traffic.

The plywood itself is made from thin layers of wood veneer that are bonded together using adhesive. This cross-lamination process gives the plywood its strength and durability. The film that coats the surface provides an additional layer of protection, making it resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and weather conditions.

Advantages of Film Faced Plywood

1. Durability

Film-faced plywood is highly durable and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for outdoor use or in areas with high humidity. The phenolic coating provides excellent protection against water damage, which is a common problem with traditional plywood.

2. Smooth Surface

The smooth surface of film-faced plywood makes it ideal for use in applications where a high-quality finish is needed. The smooth surface is particularly important when creating concrete molds or forms as it ensures that the finished surface will be flawless.

3. Chemical Resistance

The phenolic film makes this plywood resistant to chemicals, making it suitable for use in environments where the material will come into contact with harsh substances.

4. Easy to Clean

Unlike untreated plywood, which may absorb dirt and stains, film-faced plywood has a smooth surface that can be easily cleaned. This makes it ideal for construction projects that require frequent cleaning or for areas where hygiene is important.

5. Versatility

Film-faced plywood can be used for a wide range of applications, including:

• Formwork and shuttering for concrete

• Flooring in warehouses, factories, and construction sites

• Furniture making

• Wall paneling

• Door panels

• General construction projects

6. Cost-Effective

Despite its high quality and durability, film-faced plywood is relatively cost-effective compared to other high-end materials. When purchased online, buyers often enjoy competitive pricing, discounts, and delivery options.

How to Buy Film Faced Plywood Online

Buying film-faced plywood online is a straightforward process, but there are a few things to consider before making a purchase:

1. Choose the Right Size and Thickness

Film-faced plywood comes in various sizes and thicknesses. It’s important to choose the right size for your project to avoid wasting material. Common thicknesses for film-faced plywood range from 6mm to 18mm, while the standard size for sheets is typically 4’x8′. However, larger sheets (such as 5’x10′) may also be available.

2. Look for Quality and Certification

Check whether the plywood has been certified for quality. Look for certifications such as ISO 9001 or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), which ensure that the plywood is made from responsibly sourced materials and meets specific quality standards.

3. Select the Film Type

There are different types of phenolic film finishes available. Choose the type of finish that suits your needs:

• Black Film: This is the most common type, and it offers great durability and water resistance.

• Brown Film: This is often used in furniture and interior design projects.

• Anti-slip Film: This type of film is textured for extra grip, which can be ideal for flooring or platforms.

4. Check Shipping and Delivery Options

When purchasing plywood online, check the shipping and delivery options to ensure that the product will arrive on time and in good condition. Many suppliers offer free or discounted delivery for bulk orders.

5. Compare Prices

Online platforms typically provide easy price comparisons between various sellers. Take advantage of this by reviewing prices for the same or similar products and considering the total cost, including shipping and taxes.

FAQs About Buying Film Faced Plywood Online

1. What is the difference between film-faced plywood and regular plywood?

Film-faced plywood is treated with a phenolic resin film that makes it water-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. Regular plywood does not have this protective film and is more prone to water damage and wear.

2. Is film-faced plywood suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, film-faced plywood is highly resistant to moisture and can be used for outdoor applications, especially in construction and formwork. It is designed to withstand exposure to the elements.

3. Can I use film-faced plywood for furniture making?

Yes, film-faced plywood can be used for furniture, especially if you want a durable, easy-to-clean surface. It is particularly useful for items like tables, shelving, and cabinetry.

4. How should I store film-faced plywood?

Store film-faced plywood in a dry, covered area to prevent moisture from affecting the wood. Ensure that the plywood is elevated off the ground to avoid any potential water exposure from the floor.

5. Can I use film-faced plywood for flooring?

Yes, film-faced plywood is often used for flooring in warehouses and factories due to its durability and ease of maintenance. The smooth surface makes it suitable for high-traffic areas.

6. What thickness should I choose for my project?

The thickness of the plywood depends on the intended use. For light-duty projects like furniture, 6mm to 12mm thickness should suffice. For heavy-duty applications such as formwork or flooring, you may want to choose thicker plywood, such as 15mm to 18mm.

7. Is film-faced plywood environmentally friendly?

Many suppliers offer film-faced plywood that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensuring that the wood used comes from responsibly managed forests. Check the product details to verify certifications.

8. Can I return film-faced plywood if it doesn’t meet my expectations?

Many online retailers offer a return or exchange policy for plywood purchases. However, it’s essential to review the return policy before buying, especially for bulk or custom orders.

9. Is film-faced plywood expensive?

The price of film-faced plywood varies based on factors such as thickness, size, and the type of film coating. Generally, it is more expensive than regular plywood due to its added durability and protective properties, but it is still affordable compared to other high-performance materials.