APA Softwood Plywood Grading & Classifications

Grade Designations... Most sanded plywood grades are identified by the veneer grade used on the face and back of the panel. Veneer grades define veneer quality according to natural unrepaired growth characteristics and allowable number and size of repairs permitted during manufacture. Veneer grades in descending order of quality are A, B, C-Plugged, C and D.		Exposure Durability... Sanded plywood is produced in three basic exposure classifications: Exterior, Exposure 1, and Interior. The exposure durability classification relates to glue bond, and thus to structural integrity. Proper installation is required to provide optimum overall performance.
Interior Panels		Exterior Panels
Manufactured with exterior glue but are intended for interior applications only.		Made with a water resistant bond and are designed for applications subject to permanent exposure to the weather or moisture. The minimum grade of veneer permitted in Exterior plywood is C.
Exposure 1 Panels		Marine Panels
Consists of a water-resistant bond and are designed for applications where long delays may be expected prior to providing protection, or where high moisture conditions may be encountered in service.		Panel manufactured with the same glueline durability requirements as other exterior-type panels but with more restrictive veneer quality & manufacturing requirements. This grade is quite suitable for marine applications where bending is required, as in boat hulls.
NOTE: APA ( American Plywood Association ) rated sheathing exposure 1, commonly called "CDX" is sometimes mistaken as an Exterior panel and used in applications for which it does not possess the required resistance to weather. "CDX" should only be used for Applications as outlined under Exposure 1 above. For sheathing grade panels that will be exposed permanently to the weather, specify APA Rated Sheathing Exterior.

	Softwood Plywood
	American Plywood Association (APA)
	Softwood Plywood Grading & Classification