Is Marine Plywood Waterproof?

Marine plywood is the number one in demand for strength and water-resistance applications. Such applications demand dryness with high humidity expected to be used for the installation of marine ply. The kind of plywood which has a very excellent seal capacity regarding water-proofing. Is Marine Ply wholly water-proof then?

What is Marine Plywood?

Marine ply is one of the types of engineered wood, where two or more hardwood veneers are bonded together with waterproof adhesive. It has gone through a process of specialized manufacture that ensures it has very little gap between its layers, and therefore it will have greater strength and resistance to moisture. What makes this material ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors, or any wet areas is the provision of resistance against water and moisture. This answers the question - is marine ply totally waterproof?

Is Marine Plywood Considered Waterproof?

Marine plywood provides a good resistance to moisture and can withstand exposure to moisture for a long period, but when submerged or exposed to water for an extended period, marine plywood is likely to swell or deteriorate, though not as quickly as any other type of plywood.

Marine plywood is resistant to moisture when exposed to humidity. However, they can swell or deteriorate when submerged for an extended period. Although this type of plywood can swell when submerged in water, it takes relatively more time unlike normal plywood which rots faster. The phenol-formaldehyde adhesive used in marine plywood is resistant to seepage of water. With additional treatment, this plywood can be made further resistant to withstand heavy rainfall.

Also Read: Benefits of Waterproof Plywood

Characteristics That Lead to Water Resistance

Top Quality Hardwood Veneers

The usage of premium hardwood ensures durability and resistance to wear and tear.

Moisture-Resistant Adhesives

The adhesive used in marine plywood is selected keeping the resistance of moisture in mind.

Fungus-Resistant

Marine plywood is treated to avoid fungal growth that is a severe issue in damp conditions.

Minimal Voids

Royale Touche marine plywood does not contain inter-layer gaps due to which water doesn’t soak into it.

Applications of Marine Plywood

Marine plywood is versatile and perfect for use in different projects, especially those that require great strength and resistance to water. Among the common uses of marine plywood include:

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Its resistance to moisture makes it one of the best materials used in building cupboards and shelves in moist places like kitchens or bathrooms. It can tolerate steam, sprinkles, and wetness without warping.

Garden Furniture

Marine plywood is sometimes used for making furniture found in gardens, benches beside the pool, and decorative items.

Boat Construction

Although Marine plywood is mostly found in boat building, it is actually primarily used for the interior and above-water parts of boats. A waterproof coating must be applied from time to time in order not to get damaged by moisture in a marine environment.

Structural Applications

For flooring or roofing, Marine plywood exhibits strength and stiffness even in the presence of humidity changes.

How to Make Marine Plywood Water-Resistant?

Since marine plywood possesses a certain degree of water resistance, it remains durable in moist conditions when used through the following methods:

Seal Edge and Surface

Edges and surfaces must be sealed with a waterproof sealant or marine-grade varnish so that water cannot penetrate.

Also Read: Boiling Waterproof vs Marine Plywood

Epoxy Resin

Applying epoxy provides a tough, watertight seal, making the plywood well suited where the plywood would be exposed directly to water.

Maintenance Over Time

Periodic inspections and reapplied sealers or coatings maintain the service life of marine plywood.

Advantages of Marine Plywood

Marine plywood possesses the following advantages:

Durability

Durable in hostile environments.

Versatility

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.

Moisture Resistance

Resists high humidity and water exposure.

Strength

Offers excellent structural integrity.

Though marine plywood has many good advantages, it still needs treatment so that it can work properly in harsh conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Marine Ply Waterproof?

Marine plywood is resistant to high humidity and occasional splashes but submersion in water for a long time may lead to swelling and degradation. One must apply sealants for better protection against water and make it waterproof.

Is Marine Plywood Suitable for Outdoor Furniture?

It is suitable for outdoor furniture and adds durability and strength to the wooden furniture, making it strong and solid.

How Can One Waterproof Marine Plywood?

For better waterproofing, seal the edges and surfaces with marine-grade varnish or epoxy resin, paint it with waterproof paint, and maintain it regularly.