How Thick Should Plywood Be for Countertops?

Nowadays, plywood is a staple of countertop construction. Even more, some countertops use plywood for the entire materials. However, plywood countertops must be thick if it will support heavy materials on top.

Of course, the amount of the thickness depends on the type of finish material. In this article, we’re going to discuss it in more detail.

So, make sure that you read through the whole article to know what type of plywood you should use when creating a kitchen countertop.

Why Should You Choose Plywood Countertops?

There are different finish materials you can use to construct a kitchen countertop, including marble tile, ceramic tile, butcher-block wood, and granite slab & tile. To support these materials, installer usually use plywood boards underneath.

Generally, plywood boards are available in ¾” thick. Of course, this thickness can provide enough support for various finish materials. You can also use plywood by itself without finish material. In this case, the plywood often comes with painting or lamination to make it more attractive and smoother.

The thickness of plywood above is a mere recommendation. So, your countertops may need thicker or thinner wood. If you want to know more about the recommendations of material-specific plywood thickness, keep reading on this article!

The Sizes of Plywood Countertops

When it comes to the thickness of plywood for countertop base, you need to know that different finish materials have different requirements.

Vinyl

If you use vinyl sheeting, you shouldn’t worry about support because this material is flexible enough and usually doesn’t need significant structural support underneath. Different from other finish materials, it doesn’t rely on joints. Besides that, it doesn’t crack so that it shouldn’t rely on a supportive substrate.

Because of that, you can use any thickness of plywood to support a countertop with plastic or vinyl sheeting. Those who want a cheap yet interesting countertop can use vinyl. Additionally, the minimal required plywood makes it more cost-effective.

Tile

If the finish material above the countertops from plywood is some kind of tile (granite tile, natural stone, or ceramic tile), you will need ¾” plywood and ¼” concrete slab/filler-board. Then, the plywood will go under this extra support component.

The countertops need thick plywood. And, tiles are the heaviest finish materials you can use for a countertop. Alternatively, you can use 2 sheets of 5/8” combination of plywood & filler-board. Besides that, you need at least an inch of substrate beneath the tile if you pursue the 2-sheet method.

Keep in mind that you better prioritize the safety when you construct a tile countertop. It means, you have always to choose the option providing the most support.

Wood

If you want to refinish the kitchen countertops with wood, you can use any thickness of plywood. Here, the thickness is more of a personal preference. And, the height of the countertop is what you must be concerned about.

You can consider using plywood countertops that come in 5/8” or standard ¾” thickness. After that, stack more wood on top until reaching your preferred height. The butcher-block wood is a common finish wood type. However, you can also use plywood itself as the finish material. But ensure that you use painted or laminated plywood so that it looks nice and smooth.

Types of Plywood Countertops

Plywood is available in different types. Choosing the right plywood will ensure the countertop goes off without a hitch. Below are some of the common plywood types. Remember that some options are not recommended for countertop construction.

Interior Plywood

This is a plywood specifically for indoors. It can be from either softwood or hardwood. However, the main thing is that it is specifically for dry areas that are free from moisture. Indoor plywood countertop can be a good idea because the moisture will not expose the wood often. However, it is available in different grades & finishes. So, be careful in choosing it.

Exterior Plywood

This type of plywood can withstand the elements, primarily snow and rain. Exterior wood also comes in different types. In addition, people usually use this type of plywood as siding for a barn, house, or other kinds of structure.

Structural Plywood

Belongs to the best plywood for countertop, this type of plywood is specifically for building. When used indoors, the space will look more rustic and rugged. Rarely, you can find finished or smooth structural plywood because it utilizes various bonds and resins to ensure soundness. Furthermore, structural integrity is very important. That’s why we often find structural plywood in places hidden from the eyes.

Marine Plywood

When moisture is the main concern, you can use this type of plywood. If you live in areas with constant humidity and heavy rain, marine plywood is a good idea. Marine plywood is also available in different types. What makes it impressive is that you can use it both outdoors and indoors.

If you construct a wood countertop, it will get wet often. Therefore, you can consider a type of plywood which stands frequent moisture exposure. However, you may need to ask a professional to choose the best type of plywood for your kitchen countertops.

Bottom Line

In the end, we will repeat to tell you that the average plywood thickness for kitchen countertops is ¾”. In fact, this thickness provides good support for different finish materials. If you don’t want a stand-alone product, you can consider a finish-style plywood since it comes with a laminate finish you can finish or paint based on your preference.

This is a general guideline, rather than a reference, because different finish materials may need different thicknesses. However, the most ideal thickness is ¾” as it meets most requirements.

Overall, plywood countertops can be the ideal option for your kitchen. After you make the decision which plywood is best for your countertops, make sure that you buy it at the trusted company. There’s no better place to buy kitchen countertops than at Jati Luhur Agung.

Just contact us via email or phone, or visit the showroom!

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