Standard Cabinet Plywood Thickness

Common Measurements

• Standard plywood sheet thicknesses range between 1/8 inch and a full inch. This range provides a total of five different thicknesses; the other three are 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch. Since plywood sheets are commonly used for support underneath hardwood floors, some are not thick enough to be suited for storage cabinets.

Importance of Thickness

• Homemade plywood cabinets require strength to hold the items you intend to store. Plywood sheets with a thickness of 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch may be too thin to deal with screws and nails. If the nails or screws are too close to the surface, the wood tends to crack under pressure. However, 1-inch sheets may be too bulky or too large for a single cabinet. Aim for 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch thickness for both strength and natural appearance.

Price Variances

• The thickness of plywood sheets is one influence on pricing. A 1-inch-thick sheet is more expensive than a 1/8-inch-thick sheet. However, the overall cut of the plywood along with the type of wood also influences the price. For instance, cherry is more expensive than birch and a 4-by-8-foot sheet is more expensive than a 5-by-5-foot sheet. Keep these factors in mind as you budget for your cabinet project.

Grades of Plywood

• Plywood thickness is not the only thing you must consider when selecting your plywood. Avoid purchasing plywood that has low grades, such as C- and D-grade wood. These indicate low quality with poor wooden surface finish. Instead, go after cuts and types that provide you with A- or B-grade quality. These grades also provide a smooth surface, making it easier to paint and treat compared to the lower-quality sheets.