Plywood (likely Lauan or Douglas Fir based veneer)
Shorea spp. or Pseudotsuga menziesii • Engineered
Grain Pattern
Rotary-cut veneer with a coarse, open-grain texture; shows some splintering and wild, irregular fiber orientation typical of utility-grade plywood faces.
Color Description
Medium reddish-brown heartwood color with significant darkening due to dust, oxidation, and weathering. Low luster with a dull, flat appearance typical of aged industrial or structural panels.
Hardness Rating
660-710 lbf (Soft to Medium depending on core material and species)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; highly susceptible to rot, moisture delamination, and insect attack if not treated or sealed.
Common Uses
Utility sheathing, underlayment, temporary construction barriers, backing for cabinets, and crate manufacturing.
Geographic Origin
Global (manufactured worldwide; veneers often sourced from Southeast Asia or North America)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$0.50 - $1.50 per square foot (contractor/utility grade)
Wood Age Estimate
10-30 years based on heavy surface oxidation, fiber degradation, and accumulated grime/staining.
Sustainability Status
Variable; common construction plywood is rarely CITES listed but sustainability depends on FSC certification of the specific manufacturer.
Workability
Fair; prone to significant splintering and tearout during cross-cutting. Glues and nails well, though the surface is too rough for fine joinery without extensive sanding.
Notable Features
Distinctive rough 'hairy' texture from weathered fibers; may contain urea-formaldehyde resins common in older domestic plywood adhesives.
Finish Recommendations
High-build primer and exterior-grade paint for protection; penetration oils or stains are generally not recommended due to the uneven absorption of the degraded surface.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the visible surface shows characteristic rotary-cut peeling marks and fiber separation consistent with weathered utility-grade plywood sheathing.