Plywood OR Laminated pine boards for cabinet carcasses?

[smckerrell]

About to start a build of a full wall cabinet and bookshelves project--any preference here for either decent 18mm plywood or 18mm laminated pine boards for the project?

AND--does anyone know of a cutting service if I go for the plywood sheets in or near Glasgow?

many thanks

Simon.

 

[Fitzroy]

plywood has dimensional stability, wide pinewood boards could move hugely through the seasons, i'd be using plywood all day long or even MDF.

 

[duke]

Over here the H depot and some other big box suppliers will cut what sizes you need on their panel saw. That's if material is purchased at their store. Minimal extra cost sometimes none.
Don't know about your side of the pond.

 

[Doug71]

I think it all depends on the style and look you are going for as both ply and laminated boards have advantages and disadvantages depending on how they are used.

Ply will be more stable but also more chance of sagging if used for shelves, you also have to deal with the edges somehow.

The laminated boards can move around and some of the cheaper stuff is full of knots which isn't great.

If cabinets are to be painted you can mix and match the materials to get the best results, just make sure you allow for the different amount of movement between the different materials.

 

[benitod]

I'd suggest plywood. It's my choice for this kind of project.
MDF is too heavy and difficult to screw at the edges not to mention the ability to dull off the tools.
On this side of the pond, all the big stores have a cutting service for the materials you buy from them.
Good luck with your projects, Simon.

 

[duke]

If you are painting the units then go ply. If you want the laminated wood look with stain or another finish then it's fine also. I have done both many times over the years with great results.
And the advice above is all good.