A Complete Guide to Plywood Grades: BWP, BWR, and MR Explained

Many people look at plywood to build strong furniture, work on complex designs, or create structural elements, but did you know that not all plywood is created equal? The world of plywood sheets varies, with different grades tailored to various applications. There are three primary types of plywood, including BWP (Boiling Water Proof), BWR (Boiling Water Resistant), and MR (Moisture Resistant). While these grades seem similar, they are pretty different in features, applications, and benefits.

In this blog, we'll take you through the ins and outs of these plywood grades, helping you to understand what makes them distinctive, where they differ, and how to select the best plywood for your needs. Whether you are looking to make kitchen cabinets, bathroom furniture, or even building outdoor structures, knowing the right plywood grade is essential for durability and long life.

What Are Plywood Grades? 

What are considered plywood grades? It simply refers to the class of plywood in terms of moisture, strength, as well as overall durability. Plywood consists of layers of thin veneers of wood bonded together by adhesives; each layer is oriented perpendicular to the grain of its neighbors. This cross-grain construction makes plywood sturdier, and more resistant to warping.

The grades of plywood - MR, BWR, and BWP; are differentiated according to their characteristics of moisture resistance. These ensure that plywood is used in appropriate applications where it is required for moisture resistance in achieving the desired longevity. The different types are tested and classified to be specific to a kind of use thus helping you choose that type depending on environmental conditions, structural demands, and aesthetic needs.

Different Grades of Plywood

MR Grade Plywood

The term MR plywood is short for moisture-resistant plywood and is also referred to as commercial grade plywood. This type of plywood is made using phenolic or melamine adhesives, which make it resistant to humidity, thereby making it ideal for indoor furniture to be located in dry environments. MR-grade plywood can survive minor exposure to moisture but cannot tolerate wet or high-humidity environments.

Common Uses of MR Grade Plywood 

Wardrobes, shelves, and tables
Bedroom and living room cabinetry
Paneling and false ceiling
Areas with moderate moisture exposure

Characteristics of MR Grade Plywood

Economical: MR plywood is cheaper as compared to other grades.
Moisture Resistance: It resists the effects of moisture, but continuous exposure leads to swelling and warping.
Ideal for Dry areas: Best suited for areas such as living rooms and bedrooms that do not have high moisture content.

Major Differences Between BWP and BWR Plywood

Both BWP and BWR plywood can each resist moisture, but the major difference is in the ability to resist continued water submersion. Look at the differences below:

As you can see, BWP plywood has high resistance to moisture and is ideal for places where applications are under constant exposure to water. On the other hand, BWR plywood, though also moisture-resistant, is used for areas that have moderate humidity levels and sometimes get exposed to water.

BWR Grade Plywood

BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) plywood is the second type of moisture-resistant plywood, best suited to areas where moisture contact is relatively more increased. This grade of plywood is dipped into superior adhesives and chemicals so that it can face moderate water exposure without losing its integrity.

Common Uses of BWR Grade Plywood

Kitchen furniture and cabinets
Bathroom furniture
Any place with humidity but no direct water exposure

Characteristics of BWR Grade Plywood

Better Water Resistance: BWR plywood can withstand greater exposure to water than MR plywood, so it is appropriate for kitchen and bathroom furniture.
Stronger and much tougher: BWR plywood has higher rigidity and toughness than MR plywood, so it is perfect for furniture that will be used and needs sturdiness.
Susceptible to water damage: Although it is moisture-resistant, exposure to water for a long time will inevitably cause damage.

BWP Grade Plywood

BWP plywood is the highest grade of plywood regarding moisture resistance. The name itself suggests that BWP plywood can bear boiling water without compromising its structural integrity. That is why it is most appropriate for harsh conditions where constant exposure to moisture is expected.

Common uses of BWP-Grade plywood

Kitchen and bathroom cabinetry
Outdoor furniture and structures
High humidity or direct exposure to moisture, such as areas adjacent to sinks or along the coast

Characteristics of BWP Grade Plywood

Highest Resistance to Water: BWP ply withstands long exposure to boiling water and is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and outside usage.
Extremely Durable: This ply is strength-built to ensure that your furniture and construction remain in good shape for years without significant signs of wear and tear.
Premium Cost: Because of its classy manufacturing process and excellent performance, BWP plywood is more expensive than the rest.

How to Choose the Right Plywood for Your Projects

Choosing the right plywood depends largely on the specific needs of your project. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision:

For Dry Areas: Use MR plywood for furniture and applications that will be kept in dry indoor environments.
For Moderate Moisture Exposure: BWR plywood is ideal for areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture levels are high, but not constant.
For High Moisture or Extreme Conditions: BWP plywood is your go-to choice for areas that experience high humidity or direct contact with water, such as near sinks, coastal areas, or outdoor structures.
Remember to consider the specific conditions your plywood will face—humidity, water exposure, and the overall strength required for your project.

Why Greenply is the Best Choice for Your Plywood Needs

Greenply- the best plywood company in India offers a wide range of options when it comes to choosing high quality plywood for your home or office. Greenply's plywood sheets are treated with high-tech technology that ensures superior durability and strength.
Whether you want to use BWP plywood for kitchen or bathroom applications, BWR plywood for some humidity-prone areas, or MR plywood for general indoor furniture, Greenply offers you the best options in the market. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction has made us the first choice among homeowners and builders alike.
Visit Greenply’s website today to explore our range of plywood sheets and find the perfect solution for your project!