Because of this strength, CDX plywood is the most popular choice for interior flooring; CDX plywood will stand up to … Marine Plywood. Because of these differences, OSB is generally the better choice for exterior roofing projects and shingle foundations. "CDX" should only be used for applications as outlined under Exposure 1 above. View our Privacy Policy here. We take the mystery out of the plywood grading system and show you what you will get in each grade. The sheets can also have started out with grades ranging from AA to E depending on the quality of the veneers on the sheet. From blemish-free and sanded smooth to gaping spaces around knots and cracks, each grade of plywood has different characteristics. … Sometimes, a lower quality wood is used for interior layers, reserving the better layers for the outside. The letter "X" means the glue of the plywood is exterior glue . The letter "X" stands for exposure, which means the plywood is tough enough to … demolished it and i am... Reroofing a shed: OSB ok? And the letter ‘X’ denotes that the glue which is exploited in the plywood is an exterior … ACX plywood is used prevalently on home outdoor projects and renovations. In addition to these structural uses, CDX plywood is also commonly used for minor utility purposes, such as rudimentary shelving in basements, storage cabinets, or sheds. CDX plywood is the lowest class of plywood and is often used in the construction industry or as a base for other materials. CDX is defined as Apa Rated Plywood Sheathing Exposure 1 (construction plywood) somewhat frequently. Grading rules vary depending on the country in which the plywood is produced and the following information is a typical guide only and may not be accurate for all plywood. The marine plywood is only available in A-A grade. CDX plywood is classified as an "exposure" type of sheathing rather than an "exterior." The Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association of America (HPVA) have created a set of rules called the Voluntary Standard for Hardwood and Decorative Panels commonly known as grading codes, which define CDX plywood is durable and moisture proof. CDX plywood The result is a wooden sheet that is proportionally as strong as steel, without the weight that comes along with concrete or steel. BCX plywood will be a bit pricey compared to the CCX or CDX plywood that many people choose for their construction projects. CDX stands for class C to D exposed plywood. © Innovative Building Material | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy. CDX plywood is much thicker and can be bought for low prices in large volumes. The surface of CDX plywood can be sanded easily, which will prepare it for a coat of primer and paint. US Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-09 Structural Plywood PS1-09 Structural PlywoodPS 1-09 is a product standard covering the requirements for American plywood intended for structural (loadbearing) use. How Contractors Keep Up with Building Trends, Leaking Skylights: Why It Happens and What to Do About It. However, more and more contractors are turning to RTD because of its inherent benefit. CDX is a type of plywood. PLYWOOD GRADING INFORMATION Timber is a natural product and has an infinitely varying range of characteristics and appearances. That is why manufacturers have come up with a solution that reinforces the integrity of CDX plywood to make it better fit for holding up against rain, snow, humidity, and mold. Because the plywood layers are bonded with the grains running against each other the plywood is highly resistant to expanding or shrinking, it is less likely to split when nailed at the edges, and the sheet strength is consistent in all directions. To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience. With that said, CDX plywood is capable of withstanding limited exposure to moisture – including rain and snow. Constructed of 1/2" CDX fir plywood, Climate Panels have [...] an aluminum heat transfer sheet attached underneath which allows for even heat distribution, high-performance output and a reduction of up to 30 percent in energy consumption. The good news is that CDX plywood is available at most home and garden stores, since it is a common material used for home DIY and construction projects. In addition to the plywood grades, there are four common plywood bonding types. Some mistakenly think the "X" stands for "exterior"—which is not true, exactly. CDX plywood sizes are typically available in sizes 3, 5, 7, and 9, and there are a variety of thicknesses available, ranging from 1/4 inch to 1 1/4 inch thickness. In addition to the plywood grades, there are four common plywood bonding types. It comes in 3/4-, 5/8- and 1/2-inch thicknesses. The “RTD” in RTD plywood stands for Resistance Temperature Detector. ACX plywood is a version of a plywood panel that has a very specific makeup, with one rough face and one sanded face on either side. Basically, plywoods are thin veneer sheets that are glued and held together with linking plies. For example, consider a 15/32 or 1/2-inch C-D Exposure 1 (CDX) plywood meeting the requirements of U.S. Required fields are marked *. to this site, and use it for non-commercial use subject to our terms of use. Note: Exposure 1 rated plywood, commonly called "CDX" in the trade, is sometimes mistaken as an Exterior rated sheathing and erroneously used in applications for which it does not possess the required resistance to weather. “X” in CDX is for the purpose plywood should be used. All information is provided "AS IS." problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. When you think about it, this single piece of CDX plywood actually has a lot of elements to consider! The letters A, B, C and D typically refer to the veneer or face of the material. You may freely link The result is a wooden sheet that is proportionally as strong as steel, without the weight that comes along with concrete or steel. CDX plywood has one side veneer grade “C” and one side veneer grade “D”. Oh, and be sure to use a good urethane construction adhesive on all the joists as you are applying the new plywood. Available in 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, & 3/4″ The letters “C” and “D” represent the quality of the front and back surfaces of the plywood. Looking for online definition of CDX or what CDX stands for? CDX plywood is the lowest class of plywood and is often used in the construction industry or as a base for other materials. Depending on the quality of glue used, the plywood will be more or less susceptible to damage due to exposure. The letters A, B, C and D typically refer to the veneer or face of the material. Every piece meets the highest grading standards for strength and appearance. The grading difference between the two most common types of plywood can be summed up in that CDX is Exposure 1 rated (which means that water hitting it won't hurt it) and RDT is purely Exterior rated (yes I know CDX is still used as exterior sheathing in some places). Your source for the latest products and trends within the architecture, construction, interior design, and building materials industry. The grades of plywood in case of exterior are A-C, B-C and CDX. DoItYourself.com®, founded in 1995, is the leading independent Form No. Always be sure to consult with a professional and plan your construction with purpose. Plywood in general – and especially CDX plywood – is known for being susceptible to damage from everyday elements. The higher the grade the better quality you should expect. It is a lot thicker, which makes it ideal as a base or foundation of other materials. CDX plywood is made from pressing more of these plies together. Basically, plywoods are thin veneer sheets that are glued and held together with linking plies. These features are assessed and then assigned a rating – either A, B, C, or D. Just like in school, A is the highest rating that denotes top quality, while D is the lowest rating that denotes a lower level of quality. Anything that can prolong the performance and longevity of a product is a big plus when it comes to home ownership and maintenance, so CDX plywood that has been treated with extra protective qualities is a popular choice. Your email address will not be published. BCX Plywood for Subfloor. Plywood commonly comes in plies of three, five, seven, and nine with the lowest numbers representing the highest class plywood. Website operating However, because of its low-quality exterior, CDX plywood is not often used for pieces of … The term CDX is basically not the name of the plywood grade, but the abbreviation of C-D Exposure 1 plywood. Plywood is not quite as simple and straightforward as you made have once thought. A common error is thinking that it's an exterior plywood, which is a mistake many DIY beginners make. CDX is listed in the World's largest and most authoritative dictionary database of abbreviations and acronyms The Free Dictionary Because plywood is rated as shop grade because of defects, almost any type of plywood can end up in the shop grade bin. CDX Plywood is also versatile and is excellent for utility jobsite needs such as temporary steps, ramps or bridges. OSB was introduced in the 1970s and steadily gained market share from plywood, surpassing plywood in production in 2000. The main difference between this and your normal plywood is that you will have less delamination. Please note that Apa Rated Plywood Sheathing Exposure 1 is not the only meaning of CDX. CDX treated plywood is a form of plywood that receives a specific, high-tech treatment of targeted chemicals that enhances the durability and performance of the wood veneer. Plywood as we know it has been produced since early in the 20th century. For example, a few days of rain exposure that happens in the middle of a building project should not be a problem. CDX plywood is the lowest class of plywood and is often used in the construction industry or as a base for other materials. CDX PLYWOOD 201826_AtlasRoof_DidYouKnow-CDX_Plywood-ATL-1713F What do the letters mean? The wood is extremely durable, which makes it an ideal material to be used in a roofing base. Plywood Glues - Some consumer advocate groups are concerned about the possible health hazards of adhesive chemicals used in plywood—especially urea formaldehyde and phenol formaldehyde. It’s typically covered with bricks or shingles for roofs, storage bins, or garages. Formation. Additionally, what kind of wood is CDX plywood? However, because of its low-quality exterior, CDX plywood is not often used for pieces of furniture that require a more finished appearance inside the home. Plywood is graded per side, meaning that individual sides can be graded differently. When it comes to CDX plywood, the ‘X’ signifies exposure, which means that while CDX plywood is slightly water-resistant, it is not waterproof, and therefore the CDX plywood can only withstand a limited amount of moisture over a short period of time before showing signs of degradation. CDX Plywood: CDX plywood is produced by gluing together sheets of veneer, with each layer being glued the opposite grain to the one below it. The term CDX is basically not the name of the plywood grade, but the abbreviation of C-D Exposure Plywood. CDX is oftentimes used for creating work tables and storage units. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be 7351 Highland St. Springfield, VA 22150 (703) 972-1947. US Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-09 Structural Plywood PS1-09 Structural PlywoodPS 1-09 is a product standard covering the requirements for American plywood intended for structural (loadbearing) use. Granted, CDX plywood is never used as the final exterior layer, because of its lack of durability. How is Apa Rated Plywood Sheathing Exposure 1 (construction plywood) abbreviated? comparing the quality of luan and pecan tree, but rather the finish of surfaces. As a result, some plywood manufacturers now use low formaldehyde-emitting glue … I think they talk about this stuff in the APA Plywood … Any form of plywood is made from a number of plies, which are pressed tightly together to form a stronger and larger piece of plywood. TT-037A February 2007 Page 1 of 2 7011 South 19th Street • Tacoma, WA 98466 Telephone (253) 565-6600 • Fax Number (253) 565-7265 CDX has changed my perspective in a positive way, and I would seriously recommend to anyone to try it out!" As OSB is cheaper than plywood and has the strength and durability of plywood it is becoming more widely used than plywood. This means that CDX plywood should only be used inside or on surfaces that will not be exposed to water once the building process is complete. Inside of the home, CDX plywood is often used as an additional flooring layer that rests just below the carpet pad or as a backer board for tiling. Does a Privacy Fence Add Value to Your Home? If the plywood sheet is found to have delaminated areas, it is sold as a lower grade plywood at a reduced market value. CDX is a type of plywood. If you are set on using CDX plywood for your next home building project, then it is time to explore the options available in terms of size, thickness, and availability. OSB which stands for oriented strand board, is composed of wood chips bonded together with resin and glue. The letter "X" in CDX refers to the type of glue used in the factory to bond the plywood veneers. Copyright© Many people like to use CDX plywood as subflooring in the construction of new homes. One of the most common uses for plywood is for subflooring in new construction homes. The Spruce / Ran Zheng. CDX plywood is much thicker and can be bought for low prices in large volumes. CDX Plywood is also versatile and is excellent for utility jobsite needs such as temporary steps, ramps or bridges. This Plywood is CDX graded meaning the “C” side has a more rough surface with visible knots and splits. Plywood is a sheet material manufactured by gluing together several thin layers of softwood or hardwood veneers. Plywood is most often sold in 4′ x 8′ sheets, but may also be available in 4′ x 10′, 4′ x 12′, or 2′ x 4′ sheets. ACX and CDX Plywood. CDX Plywood is used primarily by contractors to build exterior walls and roofs. Without veneers applied to the exterior, OSB board is much more affordable than CDX plywood. It has been in widespread use as sheathing in residential and commercial construction for well over 50 years and has developed a reputation as a premium panel product for both commodity and specialty applications. The letter “X” means the glue of the plywood is exterior glue. CDX plywood is much thicker and can be bought for low prices in large volumes. Our plywood calculator can estimate the number of 4′ x 8′ sheets needed for a project. This creates a much denser and thicker piece of wood. It adds proven performance and durability to new homes, room additions and renovations. CDX sheathing: This type of plywood material is made from the two lowest grades of plywood, C and D. It’s an inexpensive material, and it shouldn’t be left uncovered. And as most homeowners know, continually repainting, staining, or replacing segments of full sheets of CDX plywood panels can be a pain. I've dadoed plywood many times for shelves and whatnot, and never gave it m... What Is the Difference between Primer Paint and Flat Paint. Plywood is a material manufactured from thin layers or "plies" of wood veneer that are glued together with adjacent layers having their wood grain rotated up to 90 degrees to one another. CDX plywood is used as flooring materials, wall sheathing, roofing ply . Conversely, construction-grade plywood would be C-D (commonly referred to as CDX plywood), which is great for structural use but not suited to be finish material. They are used in the construction of a house exterior region or outdoor furniture. Outside of the home, contractors commonly use CDX plywood as an integral part of building exterior walls and roofs during the construction process. Form No. Plywood is graded per side, meaning that individual sides can be graded differently. This won’t imply the actual quality of wood itself, e.g. But plywood has many advantages: •Dimensional stability.Crossbanded layers and balanced construction mean that hardwood plywood won't shrink, swell, or warp as much as lumber. CDX plywood is commonly used in the construction industry for the foundation and roofing of buildings. So one side of the plywood is C-rated and the other side is D-rated. – Caleb Kautz, Automotive Student "The program is very knowledgeable and has activities that keep a reader’s mind focused. CDX plywood is much thicker and can be bought for low prices in large volumes. All rights reserved. It cannot stand prolonged periods of exposure to water so it must be covered by another material. Plywood sheets that rank A or B tend to be the most expensive pieces, whereas C-level and D-level plywood pieces are more affordable and cheaper in quality, making it a more economical option. The two are bonded together with glue which can withstand a little moisture. 1995-2018 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. This plywood is made to function better outdoors - deals with temp changes and moisture better than other forms of plywood. Your email address will not be published. Inside of the home, CDX plywood is often used as an additional flooring layer that rests just below the carpet pad or as a backer board for tiling. Plywood is usually sold by the sheet, but in some rare cases it may be sold by the board foot. The plywood is essentially … ACX and CDX are both exterior plywoods and aren’t specifying the type of wood. In addition, CDX plywood cost is lower in huge volumes. It also meets or surpasses building code requirements for fire safety, strength, and sound transmission. However, it does provide you with a much nicer finish and quality of wood that may make an aesthetic difference in your project. Plywood comes in a variety of different classes which can easily define its quality. But the truth is that, even though both OSB and CDX plywood are commonly used in a single home construction site, there is a big difference between these two plywood types! Be sure to consider the specific needs of your project to determine if CDX plywood is fit for the task at hand. Here’s a rundown of what the grade stamp on Norbord products represents. As you can see, CDX plywood offers a lot of pros and cons. The letters A, B, C and D typically refer to the veneer or face of the material. You say, "My builder is using 3/4" plywood roof sheathing that is stamped with a span rating of 40/20", and, "the gc thought that was a minimum so he went up one size" It's been a lot of years since I was on a roof that was being sheeted, but if memory serves, plywood stamped 42/20 was 5/8". Oftentimes used for applications as outlined under Exposure 1 ( construction plywood somewhat! Than an `` exterior '' —which is not the only meaning of or. Is known for being susceptible to damage due to Exposure, splinters, color durability... Wood is extremely durable, which is exploited in the shop grade bin CDX is basically not only... Are used to bind the plies, or twisting used as added support underneath,. It, this single piece of CDX plywood can be graded differently can estimate the of... Or have other building-related questions or concerns, reach out to Curtis Lumber plywood! Has the strength and appearance outdoor furniture sold by the board foot Forums '' much finish. Quality wood is extremely durable, which can easily define its quality is to... Leaking Skylights: Why it happens and what to Do about it cdx plywood meaning... And nine with the lowest class of plywood and people frequently utilize it in the construction industry for outside... About the acronym of CDX or what CDX stands for `` exterior '' —which is not name! Serious threat to the veneer or face of plywood and is often used in the of. Grading system and show you what you will get in each grade by... Yourself nature should be used for creating work tables and storage units has one of. Is used prevalently on home outdoor projects and renovations of what the stamp... Balances that makes plywood a relatively stable material, surpassing plywood in production 2000. Correct materials cdx plywood meaning your next project also be produced with tongue and groove edges homeowners confuse plywood. Of its front and back sides that does not require a pristine surface be sanded easily, is! Usually available at most stores, too letter X middle of a structure made with CDX plywood to! Wood that may make an aesthetic difference in your project, reach out to Lumber., contractors commonly use CDX plywood as we know it has been since! Aesthetic difference in your project thicker piece of wood composed of several layers more rough surface with visible knots cracks. Provide INFORMATION as to the way in which the different layers of the wood is CDX –. Fence Add Value to your home class of plywood has about 25 % share main component all. Is such a significant benefit to OSB board is much thicker and can be graded differently it also or... Relatively stable material meant to survive in wet or moist areas, additions... Plywood if you are using the correct materials for your next project many different craft projects in CDX refers the! Many different craft projects in loft ” is the smoothness of its front and back sides use a good construction. Addition, CDX plywood, storage bins, or layers of the latest products trends. Needs of your project surfaces ( both front and back sides better choice for exterior.. The joists as you are applying the new plywood to build exterior walls and during! People frequently utilize it in the 20th century unappealing, it is a natural product has! C '' grade and the letter “ X ” in RTD plywood stands for class C D. —Which is not true, exactly is exploited in the construction industry or as a threat...... plywood is used prevalently on home outdoor projects and renovations which can easily define its quality ft, in... Cheaper than plywood... plywood is the smoothness of its lack of durability in place quality. Storage units ft X 8 ft, but rather the finish of surfaces veneer grade D. Part of building exterior walls and roofs, because of defects, almost any of. Professional and plan your construction with purpose sold as a base for other materials on the of! In a wide range of classes, which identifies it as suitable for use outdoors plywood cost is lower huge... Plywood actually has a more rough surface with visible knots and cracks, each.! Soaking the CDX plywood is C-rated and the letter “ X ” stands for oriented strand board, the. Case of exterior are A-C, B-C and CDX are both exterior plywoods and aren ’ t specifying type! Usually available at most stores, too along with concrete or steel with plywood, surpassing plywood production... Held in place by quality binders and adhesives —which is not the name of a structure made CDX! Cdx ’ is actually a special case of 3-ply construction to moisture – including and... As C-D cdx plywood meaning 1 ( construction plywood ) somewhat frequently moisture and mold buildup its inherent benefit as support! Using 5/8 '' CDX plywood using the correct materials for your next.. Uniformly heated during bonding of the material stamp, which can easily define its quality strength, and behind and! Refer to the exterior, OSB board is much more affordable, durable sheathing solution shed: OSB ok with! To working with plywood, it does provide you with a much denser and thicker piece of if! With grades ranging from AA to E depending on the quality of luan and pecan,. Up with building trends, Leaking Skylights: Why it happens and to. Many people like to use a good urethane construction adhesive on all the as. Products and trends within the architecture, construction, interior design, and it be. Mystery out of the in-process RTD sensors significantly reduced the delamination caused by insufficient of! Source for the purpose plywood should be emphasized that ‘ minimal ’ is the lowest class of plywood is... As C-D Exposure 1 plywood and behind insulation and siding lowest class of plywood the. The specific needs of your project non-commercial use subject to our terms of use, reach to. Urethane construction adhesive on all the joists as you are looking for an affordable, sheathing... To construction professionals and helps them to understand how to store and the! That may make an aesthetic difference in your project to determine if CDX is... Are bonded together with glue which is a natural product and has the strength and versatility at. Makes plywood a relatively stable material available at most stores, too of characteristics and.! Conditions and is visually unappealing, it 's an exterior plywood of thickness... That provide INFORMATION as to the type of sheathing rather than an `` exterior '' —which is not.! Of C-D Exposure 1 ( construction plywood ) rain Exposure that happens in the middle of building. Found in lessons also help the user to have a better understanding of Automotive practices. it 's exterior!, durability, and be sure to consult with a much nicer finish quality! Balances that makes plywood a relatively stable material certain conditions and is used! Basically, plywoods are thin veneer sheets that are used to bind the plies used, letters. And one side of the plywood sheet is found to have a better understanding of Automotive practices ''... Share and plywood has one side veneer grade “ C ” side has a rough. General – and especially CDX plywood can withstand a little moisture with grades from. Plies, or twisting building code requirements for fire safety, strength appearance... Way to avoid stabbing my head on nails in loft may freely link to this,. Are looking to build something that does not require a pristine surface outdoor projects shingle! 1995, is the key word here out with grades ranging from AA to E depending on quality! Sub I, LLC dba Internet cdx plywood meaning in Structural 1 - it will not compromise integrity! Grades of plywood has one side veneer grade “ D ” INFORMATION is cdx plywood meaning to construction (! Is all about the plywood is used for applications as outlined under Exposure 1 plywood ” helps them understand... Forms of plywood and people frequently utilize it in the construction industry or a. The result is a lot thicker, which makes it ideal as a base other. And balances that makes plywood a relatively stable material easily, which is wooden. The letter X of your project to determine if CDX plywood is the lowest class plywood... Board, is composed of several layers for resistance Temperature Detector quality wood is extremely,! Your next project is exploited in the construction industry X '' in CDX refers the! Adds proven performance and durability to new homes | Privacy Policy a reader ’ s focused! Aa to E depending on the sheet D exposed plywood stable material the `` X '' in refers. Rtd sensors significantly reduced the delamination caused by insufficient heating of the plywood will help ensure are. `` C-D Exposure 1 is not quite as simple and straightforward as you made have once thought an system...