Hi,
I’m building some built in bookcases in my living room and have a question about plywood for the casing. My supplier has 3/4 maple paint grade in both veneer core and particle core. Interestingly, and to my surprise, the particle core is about $8 more a sheet.
Can anyone tell me whether veneer core or particle core is better (ie. structurally stronger) for constructing the casing? I’m wondering if the particle core is more stable, as regards warping, etc? However I have to think that in terms of dadoes and ability to hold fasteners, the veneer core is stronger.
Please help!
Thanks in advance.
Bill.
Replies
Either will hold a screw well provided that you pre-drill/counter-sink. The cabinet gables will be structurally fine either way also. For the shelving, though, veneer core will typically support more weight without significant deflection. Having said that, a 1" (or more) solid edge on the shelves will help with that.
The particle core is more probably because of the grade of veneer on one or both faces being better. If the grade of veneer is equal, then the price difference is curious.
Best of luck.
Do you mean carcass, instead of casing? As in sides, tops and bottoms. Particle core or commonly called Nova core is heavy. It gets weakened by dadoes, rabbets, etc. Glue adheres to the particles which can pull apart under stress. Normal fasteners don't work that well, typically Confirmat or similar screws are used. Particle board will eventually sag if used for shelves. I don't like the dust.
Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
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