Sheet Materials

Plywood

Plywood is probably one of the most mis-used products we keep. Manufactured from multiple "veneers" or layers of timber glued together, it must not be used externally unless it is fully sealed/covered on all faces and edges. A very important consideration with plywood is the glue used. If the glue is grade 3 (external grade) then it is more than capable of dealing with moisture and external climatic conditions.

Marine Plywood - To comply with the full BS1088 standard requires an extremely rigorous set of criteria for veneers, glue and constructional layup of the veneers. There are many so called “marine” plywoods out there, making this a potential minefield. In practice there are very few situations where Marine plywood is really needed and it still requires extensive coating and maintenance to be used externally.

Pros: Excellent strength, paints well and creates a smooth & clean finish.

Cons: Made from timber so more costly than particle board, poor moisture resistance, can be difficult to cut cleanly.

OSB

"OSB" or oriented strand board, is comprised of shards and strips of timber which are oriented in layers to give the panel stiffness and strength. The panels are formed by pressing, during which the glue activates and cures creating a high-strength, multi-use board. We like it so much that our shop and offices are clad in OSB!

Not only is it generally cheaper than plywood, but it is also generally better at dealing with moisture, so it offers a perfect solution for boarding out walls, roofs and floors. The main point of difference is the impact strength. For example, if boarding out an animal enclosure, or stable, be aware that OSB has a lower impact resistance than plywood. So a horse kick would likely break through OSB, whereas Plywood would stand up a bit better.

Pros: Good moisture resistance, strong & durable, cost effective.

Cons: Not great for painting/creating a smooh finish.

MDF

MDF is created from wood fibre, coated in a bonding agent, then combined with chemicals, and pressed under heat to create the finished product. FORT only keeps MDF in a moisture resistant (MR) grade and is only suitable for internal use. It usually has a green dye to signify that it is MR, but do not be concerned if it isn't that green, it will still be moisture resistant!

MDF is an incredibly versatile material that has taken over as the main panel for most internal joinery applications.

Due to it's resistance to moisture, it makes ideal panelling in bathrooms and kitchens. Also, thanks to MDF's construction, it machines and cuts extremely neatly and easily; making it a very popular product with joiners.

Pros: Moisture resistant, cuts and finishes extremely cleanly, paints very well.

Cons: Due to it's construction it can struggle to hold screws.

Chipboard

Chipboard is probably the most popular flooring in the building industry. FORT only stocks P5, TG4 sheets. This means that all of our sheets are both moisture resistant as well as being tongued & grooved for easy installation.

As well as standard sheets, FORT also holds "protect" sheets. These come with a rubberised (or polythene coated) layer allowing the sheets to remain unprotected outside for up to 60 days, providing that it is fitted in accordance with the manufacturer specification, Once the site is weathertight, simply remove the protective layer (if polythene) and you will have a floor that’s as good as new.

Pros: Moisture-resistant, structural, different thicknesses available

Cons: Only useable for flooring