Yes, plywood is typically smooth on one side and rough on the other side.
Plywood that is smooth on both sides is commonly referred to as "baltic birch plywood" or simply "smooth plywood." This type of plywood is often used for applications where a clean, finished appearance is desired, such as furniture making and cabinetry. The smooth surfaces make it ideal for painting or veneering.
Commonly available plywood grades are AC, BC, and CDX. These plywoods are usually made of pine, southern yellow pine or fir. AC plywood is for projects that require a smooth finish. A being the smooth side, C being somewhat rough. BC is ometimes used for floor underlayment. The B side is sanded and the C side being rough. CDX is an exterior grade plywood that is usually used for sheathing walls and roofs in homebuilding. Again C is rough, D rougher.
I'm ripping off my nasty carpet and talked to my contractor friend and she said to paint the plywood with a water based opaque deck stain. She mentioned the brand Fortune. Then you seal it with a gloss or whatever finish. Do not wet the plywood, it needs to be cleaned without getting it wet. I'll let you know how it works. The cheapest paint-grade plywood would be BC grade. It's smooth finished on one side only. If you need something nicer, you can go with any smooth plywood. Check for divots, or "footballs" (the plugs they use to fix divots found at the plant).
The general practice, is to leave the underside of plywood decking bare, as this allows the wood to breathe, and be able to dry out. When using treated, or marine grade plywood, only one side, usually the top side, is sealed.
The best plywood to use for building a workbench is typically birch plywood. Birch plywood is strong, durable, and has a smooth surface that is ideal for workbench projects. It is also less likely to warp or splinter compared to other types of plywood.
CDX plywood is made from multiple layers of wood veneer and is commonly used for construction projects due to its durability and strength. RTD plywood, on the other hand, is made from a single layer of wood veneer and is known for its smooth surface finish. The choice between CDX and RTD plywood depends on the specific requirements of your project. If you need a strong and sturdy material for structural purposes, CDX plywood would be the better option. However, if you prioritize a smooth and aesthetically pleasing finish, RTD plywood may be more suitable.
To make a countertop from plywood, you will need to measure and cut the plywood to fit your desired dimensions. Sand the edges and surface of the plywood to make it smooth. Apply a sealant or finish to protect the plywood from moisture and wear. Install the plywood countertop onto your cabinets or support structure using screws or adhesive.
Plywood would be very ideal for concrete forms given its ability to produce smooth surfaces and to be used repeatedly.
Hardwood plywood is a type of plywood that is made from hardwood veneer layers that are glued together to create a strong and durable sheet material. It is commonly used in furniture, cabinetry, and other woodworking projects due to its smooth surface, stability, and attractive appearance.
To effectively patch a hole in plywood, you can use wood filler or putty to fill the hole, sand it down to make it smooth, and then paint or stain the patched area to match the rest of the plywood.
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To effectively straighten warped plywood, you can try applying moisture to the concave side and weight to the convex side. This can help the plywood regain its original shape. Additionally, using clamps or heavy objects to hold the plywood flat while it dries can also help straighten it out.