Definition of CDX:
CDX is a type of plywood that is mainly used by contractors to build exterior walls and roofs. Basically, plywood is thin veneer that is bonded and held together by joining layers. Plywood is known for its strong resistance to cracking, breaking or twisting.
There are different grades/categories of plywood, indicated by the letters A, B, C and D. In terms of the number of sections, A is the most expensive and the best quality. The fewer knots, holes, and repair defects, the more expensive the plywood is.
CDX plywood is available in single-sided veneer grade “C” and single-sided veneer grade “D”. The two are bonded together with glue that can withstand a little moisture, X stands for exposure, which is the type of glue used to hold the plywood together. This means that while CDX plywood is slightly water resistant, it is not water resistant
What are the uses of CDX?
Outdoors use:
Typically, CDX plywood undergoes multiple processes that make it extremely strong and waterproof. This makes it a good material choice in terms of exterior applications, with roof sheathing being one of the most common exterior uses for CDX. Since aesthetic value is not much of an issue when it comes to crates and boxes, CDX is one of the few more preferred options. Their dimensional stability and water resistance are also a plus, as is their ruggedness.
Indoor use:
Because of its appearance, it is usually used to make basic shelf shelves in garages, basements, storage cabinets or sheds, and because of its lower appearance quality, CDX plywood is not often used for furniture that requires a more refined interior appearance, which can greatly reduce material costs.
It is mainly used as the bottom floor of ceramic floor finishes such as kitchen and bathroom. Its economic nature also makes it more accessible and plentiful.
How long can CDX plywood be exposed?
CDX plywood is never suitable for extensive exposure to the elements because it is not weatherproof. Rain and snow can pose a serious threat to the integrity of the CDX plywood structure. Nevertheless, CDX plywood is able to withstand limited wet environments, including rain and snow,Therefore, CDX plywood should not be used as the first line of defense against severe moisture on the outside of the building.
But a few days of rain on a construction project shouldn’t be a problem. After all, because of the wood grain components used in the production of CDX plywood, this type of plywood is able to absorb a certain amount of moisture without warping, cracking, or rotting. After a few days, this moisture can be released, and the CDX plywood retains its original size and shape after drying.
