When it comes to building strong and durable structures, shuttering plywood is one of the most important materials. It is specially designed to provide a stable mould for fresh concrete until it sets. Unlike standard plywood, shuttering plywood is tough, water-resistant, and reusable multiple times. Its strength and cost-effectiveness have made it an essential material in modern construction projects ranging from houses to highways.
What is Shuttering Plywood?
Shuttering plywood, also known as formwork plywood, is manufactured to withstand the heavy loads of wet concrete. It is usually bonded with phenolic resin, which makes it resistant to water and extends its lifespan. Because of these qualities, it is far more durable and reusable than ordinary plywood.
Different Types of Shuttering Plywood
- Film-Faced Shuttering Plywood – Covered with a resin film that gives concrete a smooth and shiny surface.
- Non-Film-Faced Shuttering Plywood – Standard plywood without a film coating. It is more affordable but less durable and is suitable for single-use or low-budget projects.
- BWP Grade Shuttering Plywood – Uses boiling water-proof adhesive (phenolic resin) for superior water resistance and durability in challenging weather conditions. It is often used in applications like water tanks and drainage systems.
- Hardwood Shuttering Plywood – Made from high-density hardwood veneers bonded with phenol-formaldehyde resin under high pressure and temperature, offering enhanced strength and durability.
- Softwood Shuttering Plywood – Can be used for formwork, but is more commonly used for structural work where appearance is less important.
Where is it used?
Shuttering plywood is highly versatile and is used for:
- Casting slabs, beams, and columns
- High-rise buildings and flyovers
- Dams and retaining walls
- Road and industrial projects
Advantages of Using Shuttering Plywood
- High Strength – Handles the pressure of wet concrete effectively.
- Waterproof – Resistant to moisture and harsh weather.
- Reusable – Good-quality boards can be reused 15–30 times.
- Smooth Finish – Reduces the need for extra plastering.
- Cost-Effective – Offers long-term savings in construction.
Price of Shuttering Plywood (India, Approx.)
- 12mm thickness – ₹45 to ₹60 per sq. ft.
- 18mm thickness – ₹70 to ₹90 per sq. ft.
- 21–25mm thickness – ₹95 to ₹120 per sq. ft.
(Note: Prices vary by brand, location, and certification. Always look for IS 4990-certified plywood for assured quality.)
| Comparison: Shuttering Plywood vs Normal Plywood vs Marine Plywood | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Feature | Shuttering Plywood | Normal Plywood | Marine Plywood |
| Purpose | Formwork for concrete | Interiors & furniture | Outdoor & water-prone areas |
| Strength | Very high | Moderate | High |
| Water Resistance | Excellent (film-faced, BWP) | Low to medium | Excellent (boiling proof) |
| Reusability | 15–30 cycles | Not reusable for formwork | Not used for formwork |
| Certification | IS 4990 | IS 303 | IS 710 |
| Cost | Moderate & economical | Cheapest option | More expensive |
FAQs
1. Is shuttering plywood waterproof?
Yes, especially film-faced and BWP grades, which are treated to resist water.
2. How many times can it be reused?
Good-quality shuttering plywood can be used 15–30 times, depending on maintenance.
3. Which thickness is commonly used?
18mm is the standard thickness for slabs and beams.
4. How is it different from marine plywood?
Marine plywood is designed for permanent water contact, while shuttering plywood is specifically made for temporary formwork in construction.
5. Can shuttering plywood be used for furniture?
It can be, but it’s not recommended since it is manufactured for strength, not for appearance.
Conclusion
Shuttering plywood is a critical material for durable and cost-effective construction. Compared to normal plywood, it offers greater strength, water resistance, and reusability, while being more budget-friendly than marine plywood for formwork.
By choosing IS 4990-certified shuttering plywood, builders can ensure safety, efficiency, and smooth concrete finishes in every project—whether it’s a residential slab or a massive infrastructure development.