What is 303 Plywood and 710 Plywood?

Introduction

You can’t just choose a colour or thickness of plywood for your project; you also need to know what its basic properties are and how they will operate in different conditions. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set up a clear way to grade plywood that ensures it is of good quality and works well. IS 303 and IS 710 are the two most common and relevant grades you will see. They are both fantastic products, but they are made for completely different things. For most indoor usage, IS 303, which is a Moisture-Resistant (MR) grade, is the norm. IS 710, on the other hand, is a type of plywood that is meant to last in the worst conditions. It is also known as Boiling Water Proof (BWP) or Marine-grade plywood.

IS 303 Plywood vs. IS 710 Plywood

IS 303 plywood is a type of plywood that doesn’t soak up water. People may call it MR grade or industrial plywood. The most essential feature of this grade is that it uses a Urea Formaldehyde (UF) adhesive to bond the veneers together. This means it can handle some dampness and humidity, but it isn’t entirely waterproof. Because of this, it’s a wonderful choice for indoor furniture like beds, couches, and desks where water won’t come into direct contact with it. It can take some wetness, but it’s not meant to remain in water or places with a lot of moisture for long periods of time.

IS 710 is the best board for creating waterproof boards in India. Marine-grade plywood, commonly known as BWP (Boiling Water Proof), is produced with a strong Phenol Formaldehyde (PF) glue. This plastic resin is manufactured by people and has a unique property that helps it make a connection that is very strong and waterproof. It won’t come apart even after being in hot water for a long period. The IS 710 certification is the highest standard for plywood. It makes sure that the plywood can work even under the toughest conditions.

The most essential distinction between the two grades is the boiling water test, which is required for IS certification. For example, to achieve the IS 303 standard, plywood must be able to survive in hot water for a particular amount of time without coming apart. The IS 710 standard, on the other hand, is substantially harsher. If you place a piece of IS 710 plywood in hot water for a long time, usually 72 hours, it should stay together without any evidence of delamination.

Achieve flawless finishes and stronger joints with calibrated plywood designed for precision and durability.

Strength and Bonding Comparison

Wigwam makes both IS 303 and IS 710 plywood out of a strong hardwood. The IS 710 grade usually has a core that is denser and more even. As part of a more exact manufacturing process, all of the hardwood veneers in IS 710 plywood are pressed at very high temperatures and pressures. This makes the core thicker, more solid, and without holes.

Both grades of plywood are strong enough for regular usage, but the IS 710 grade is stronger and lasts longer. It is particularly resistant to wear and impact since its heart is incredibly dense. This means that it can take typical wear and strain without breaking. For projects that need to last a long time or for furniture that will be used a lot, the IS 710 plywood is the finest choice.

IS 303 and IS 710 plywood are both substantially stronger when they are also calibrated. The calibrating process makes sure that the sheet is the same width all around. This makes the panels fit together exactly and makes the joints stronger and more stable. There are no weak places in calibrated plywood since the surfaces are even. This makes the building stronger and helps it stay longer.

Ideal Applications for Each Plywood Grade

IS 303 plywood is a good and cheap solution for a lot of indoor uses that won’t get too wet. Desks, wardrobes, beds, tables, and decorative panels for a bedroom, living room, or workplace are all examples of this type of furniture. IS 303 plywood can endure average levels of humidity and temperature variations in a controlled setting because it doesn’t soak up water.

IS 710 plywood is the finest choice for any task where there is a danger of direct water contact or excessive humidity. It is the only material that makes sense for creating kitchen cabinets, bathroom sinks and utility room furnishings since it is boiling water proof. It’s also the perfect material for furniture on porches, patios, and other covered places, as well as for panelling on outside walls.

Even for projects that seem to be mostly about the inside, there are occasions when it makes sense to upgrade to IS 710. IS 710 is a better choice for items like a bedroom closet with a bathroom attached to it because it will be exposed to a lot of dampness. The stronger IS 710 grade is also a suitable choice for furniture that can be moved and might get wet.

Both IS 303 and IS 710 boards are terrific options for the home and workplace. They are a lot better than particle board or MDF, which can be easily destroyed by water. When you use certified and named plywood, you’re not just constructing furniture; you’re also making something that will last a long time and preserve its value.

Choose the right plywood grade, IS 303 for interiors or IS 710 for moisture-prone spaces, for lasting performance.

The Importance of Calibrated Plywood for Both Grades

The best part about measured plywood is that it is the same thickness all around. There may be modest variances in thickness across the surface of a standard sheet of plywood. This can make it challenging to line up and put pieces together in a straight line. Calibrated plywood is always the same thickness, which makes sure that all of the panels fit together perfectly. This is vital for making sure the joints are clean and sharp, and the final look is excellent.

Calibration also makes the surface very smooth and even. This is particularly critical for getting a flawless bond without bubbles when you apply paints, laminates, and veneers. You might have to do a lot of sanding and surface preparation work on a regular sheet of plywood before it can be finished. But a calibrated sheet is ready to go, which saves you time and effort. The smooth finish also makes the furniture look more expensive and professional.

Calibration works for both IS 303 and IS 710 hardwood, thus it’s a good base for both grades. Calibrated IS 303 plywood is the ideal choice for high-end home furnishings where accuracy and appearance are vital. Calibrated IS 710 plywood is the ideal choice for situations that are likely to get wet. It is both robust and elegant because it has the best water resistance and the most accurate sheet.

Conclusion

Choosing between IS 303 and IS 710 plywood is a crucial choice that will determine how long your project lasts and how well it operates. If you need something for indoors and don’t mind a little moisture, IS 303 is the best and cheapest choice. IS 710 is the best choice for projects that will be in contact with a lot of water or moisture. If you know the tight standards that govern each grade and choose a high-quality, calibrated plywood from a well-known brand like Wigwam, you are making a smart investment in a product that is not only a building material but also a promise of quality and longevity.

Trust WigwamPly for premium calibrated plywood in IS 303 and IS 710 grades, crafted for strength and stability!

FAQ’s

What is the main difference between IS 303 and IS 710 plywood?
IS 303 is moisture-resistant and suited for indoor furniture, while IS 710 is boiling water-proof and ideal for high moisture areas.

Why does IS 710 plywood cost more than IS 303 plywood?
IS 710 uses phenol formaldehyde resin and denser cores, making it stronger, waterproof, and more durable.

Can IS 303 plywood be used in kitchens or bathrooms?
No, IS 303 is not fully waterproof. For kitchens, bathrooms, or humid areas, IS 710 is recommended.

What is calibrated plywood, and why is it better?
Calibrated plywood has uniform thickness and a smooth surface, ensuring better fit, stronger joints, and flawless finishes.

Which plywood grade is more termite and borer-resistant?
IS 710 offers higher protection with strong glue line bonding and better chemical treatment, though IS 303 also provides basic resistance.