How and where to use guide
2440 x 1220 x 18mm Brazilian Elliottis Structural Pine Plywood CE2+ Class 3 C+/C EN314-2 EN636-2S EN13986EN13986
Typical applications
This 18mm plywood is engineered for structural applications in domestic and light commercial building. It performs well in wall sheathing, floor joists, roof decking, and bracing. The Class 3 rating and C+/C grading indicate suitability for internal and moderately exposed conditions. It is also suitable for general packing, crating, and non-structural infill work. Do not use in permanently wet or fully external applications without additional protection.
- Wall sheathing and bracing in timber-frame construction
- Floor decking over joists at standard domestic spacings
- Roof sheathing and sarking applications
- Internal partition backing and general structural infill
- Packing, crating, and temporary site protection
Installation and handling
Store plywood flat and dry on-site, away from direct weather exposure. Allow boards to acclimatise to site conditions for 48 hours before fixing. Ensure joists or supports are spaced to suit 18mm thickness and the load case. Fix with appropriate structural fasteners—typically 50mm ring-shank nails or 45mm screws at 150mm centres around edges and 300mm centres internally. Leave small expansion gaps (2-3mm) between boards to allow for moisture movement. Cut boards with a fine-toothed saw to minimise splintering.
- Store flat, covered, and off wet ground
- Allow 48-hour acclimatisation before installation
- Support spacing must suit 18mm thickness and design load
- Use ring-shank nails or structural screws as specified
- Leave 2-3mm gaps between boards for movement
- Wear dust mask when cutting; use fine-toothed blades
Moisture and durability
This plywood is bonded with E1 exterior-quality glue and classified to EN636-2S, indicating suitability for dry to moderately humid internal conditions. It is not suitable for prolonged wet exposure or external use without protective cladding or coating. In damp areas such as kitchens or bathrooms, ensure good ventilation and consider additional moisture barriers. The board will swell and lose strength if saturated; protect from rain and standing water during storage and installation.
- Suitable for internal and moderately exposed dry conditions only
- Protect from rain and standing water on-site
- Not suitable for permanently wet or fully external applications
- Ensure adequate ventilation in damp internal spaces
- Do not allow prolonged water contact or saturation
Maintenance and on-site tips
Once installed and protected by external cladding or roofing, plywood requires no routine maintenance. If exposed during construction, keep covered with breathable membrane or tarpaulin to prevent weather damage. Check for swelling, cupping, or delamination before fixing; reject any boards showing visible damage or moisture ingress. The low-emission E1 glue means the board is safe for internal use without additional sealing in most applications. If used in high-moisture areas, apply appropriate vapour control or moisture-resistant finishes as specified in your building design.
- Inspect boards for damage, swelling, or delamination before use
- Cover exposed plywood during construction to prevent weather damage
- No routine maintenance required once protected and installed
- Apply vapour control or moisture barriers in high-humidity spaces if required by design
- E1 glue is low-emission; no additional sealing needed for standard internal use