SHEET MATERIALS
Sheet materials are the product of solid timber and/or recycled timber which are glued together. The most widely used/known are plywood, OSB (Oriented Strand Board), hardboard, chipboard and MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) . They are used in different grades dependent on the constructural use - and using the correct grading is essential to comply with Building Regulations and Construction Products Regulations. Also buying products with CE marks on the sheet materials will ensure they comply with BS EN 13986.
Plywood
Plywood is a versatile sheet material. Shropshire Building Supplies stock Coniferous plywood and Far Eastern plywood and both types can be obtained to CE2+ panel if this is required.
OSB
This is an exterior grade panel and is made to very strict manufacturing tolerances, is easy to cut and can be painted to give a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. OSB2 (Standard grade) and OSB3 (Conditioned grade) offer more stability in moist conditions. OSB has good strength.
Hardboard
This is made from wood fibre taken from chips or pulped wood waste. Hardboard is commonly used as a floor covering, but can also be used in a range of panelling and cladding applications. As with OSB it is easy to cut, and can be painted.
MDF
This is knot free and made from wood fibres with no surface grain and is stiff, yet easily cut, drilled and filled. It has a uniformly dense core to make it suitable for moulding. it can also be painted, laminated and veneered. It comes in a range of grades which indicate its use either with moisture, external use or flame retarded chemicals.
