How and where to use guide
Hardwood Plywood 2440 x 1220 x 22mm B/BB Face Class 2 also known as WBP
Typical applications
This plywood is commonly used in construction, joinery, and structural applications where durability and moisture resistance are essential. The 22mm thickness makes it particularly suitable for flooring substrates, roof decking, wall sheathing, and formwork where it must support significant loads or span across joists and rafters.
- Structural flooring and subflooring over joists
- Roof decking and sarking boards
- Wall sheathing and bracing
- Concrete formwork and shuttering
- External cladding backing boards
- Workshop benches and work surfaces
Installation and handling
Store plywood flat or slightly angled in a dry location before use, protecting it from direct weather exposure. Allow the board to acclimatise to site conditions for 48 hours before installation. When cutting, use a sharp saw blade and support the board firmly to prevent tear-out on the face side. Secure with appropriate fixings for your application—typically ring-shank nails or structural screws for flooring, and corrosion-resistant fasteners for external use.
- Acclimatise boards to site humidity and temperature before fixing
- Support boards fully during cutting to prevent splitting
- Use corrosion-resistant fixings in damp or external locations
- Space fixings according to structural requirements and joist centres
- Stagger joints between boards for strength and to minimise movement
Moisture and maintenance
Although WBP bonding provides excellent moisture resistance, the board is not fully waterproof and should not be left exposed to standing water or prolonged saturation. In external applications, protect exposed edges and surfaces with appropriate sealant or paint. On site, keep boards covered during storage and construction phases. Once installed as part of a completed structure, the board will perform reliably in normal damp conditions such as kitchens, bathrooms, and covered external areas.
- Seal cut edges and exposed surfaces in external applications
- Avoid prolonged standing water contact
- Cover boards during storage and construction
- Inspect for swelling or delamination if exposed to heavy rain
Limitations and considerations
The B/BB face grading means one face is of better appearance than the reverse, so plan your installation accordingly. The 22mm thickness is fixed and cannot be reduced on site without specialist equipment. WBP plywood is not suitable for permanent immersion in water or for applications requiring full waterproofing; use marine-grade plywood for boat building or fully submerged conditions. Always check local building regulations and structural requirements for your specific application.
- B/BB grading: plan which face is visible
- Not suitable for permanent water immersion
- Verify structural adequacy for your load and span requirements
- Check Building Regulations compliance for your application