lastulevyt

Lastulevyt, or plywood, are engineered wood panels made from thin sheets of wood veneer stacked with alternating grain directions and bonded under heat and pressure. The veneers are typically birch, pine, spruce, or other fast-growing species, depending on regional supply and intended use. Adhesives such as phenol-formaldehyde, urea-formaldehyde, or melamine resins glue the layers, with exterior- or marine-grade glues used for moisture-resistant varieties.

Because the grain alternates, plywood has improved strength, rigidity, and dimensional stability compared with solid wood of the same thickness. Plywood is produced in several grades and textures: softwood plywood for construction, hardwood plywood for furniture and cabinetry, and marine or exterior plywood for wet or outdoor conditions. Other specialized types include fire-retardant plywood and high-density overlays.

Sizes and thicknesses vary by market. In North America, sheets are typically 4 by 8 feet (about 1.22 by 2.44 meters); in Europe, common sheets measure around 1.25 by 2.5 meters. Thicknesses range from a few millimeters for sheathing to several centimeters for structural panels.

Applications include flooring, roofing, walls, subfloors, cabinetry, furniture, and packaging crates. Its ability to be shaped and finished makes it a versatile building material, though susceptibility to moisture requires proper sealing and appropriate glue selection to maintain performance.