What is film faced plywood used for in construction?
Film faced plywood is primarily used as the sheathing material in concrete formwork — the temporary mould that holds wet concrete while it cures. The phenolic film coating provides a smooth, non-absorbent surface that releases cleanly from cured concrete and resists moisture penetration. It is also used for vehicle flooring, industrial shelving, and any application requiring a durable, water-resistant panel surface.
What is the difference between film faced plywood and phenolic plywood?
Film faced plywood refers to any plywood with a resin-impregnated paper film bonded to its surface. Phenolic plywood specifically means the film is made from phenol-formaldehyde resin, which provides superior hardness, heat resistance, and chemical resistance compared to melamine films. In the construction industry, 'film faced' and 'phenolic' are often used interchangeably because phenolic film is the dominant type used in concrete formwork.
How thick is the film on film faced plywood?
Film weight is measured in grams per square metre (g/m²) rather than thickness. Standard construction-grade film faced plywood uses 120 g/m² film, which is suitable for 20–30 reuse cycles. Premium panels use 220 g/m² film for greater abrasion resistance and 30–50+ reuse cycles. The heavier the film, the more durable the panel surface, but also the higher the unit cost.
Can film faced plywood be used outdoors?
Yes. Film faced plywood with BWP (boiling waterproof) adhesive and sealed edges performs well in outdoor and wet environments. The phenolic film surface resists moisture absorption, and the waterproof glue line prevents delamination. However, exposed edges and any cuts through the film should be sealed with edge paint to prevent water ingress into the core veneers.
