Selecting materials for a bathroom is one of the most important parts of designing a bathroom. Being constantly exposed to water, moisture, humidity, etc., a poorly selected product can be very damaging in short order. This is why plywood that has been treated for waterproofing has become the preferred choice for bathroom cabinetry because of the material’s strength, stability and long term durability.
The Differences Between Bathrooms and Other Rooms
A bathroom is unlike any other room in the house because of the amount of moisture that is put into the air during the day. Each time someone takes a shower, washes their hands or cleans the area they are exposing the area to water. If there is not a good amount of air circulation within the bathroom, the humidity in the bathroom can increase. When a bathroom has an increased amount of humidity, regular plywood (non-waterproofed) will absorb the moisture that is applied to the surface and edge of the plywood and then will eventually swell, peel the laminate off and eventually cause the plywood to fail structurally. Any cabinetry that must support the sink, countertop, and day-to-day use must consider this risk.
Why Waterproof Plywood Is Different
Waterproof plywood is specifically designed to prevent water from penetrating through the plywood surface. It is created using specific water resistant adhesive systems that hold the plywood face layers together so that they do not separate under wet conditions. This inner adhesive will remain intact through continual exposure to water and steam and will be far more reliable than standard plywood to be used in a bathroom environment.
Unlike standard boards, waterproof plywood will maintain its shape and strength over time, which means the cabinet doors will be aligned, the drawers will function properly, and the cabinet structure will be stable for many years.
Strength and Longevity of Bathroom Cabinets
Bathroom cabinet will frequently carry a significant load with sink basins, stone and/or solid surface countertops, and all the items that are stored in the cabinets, and waterproofed plywood will have the strength and the capability to carry this weight without deteriorating due to moisture. Therefore, with the combination of strength and moisture resistance, waterproof plywood increases the life span of bathroom furniture, reducing the need for replacement and repairs.
Hygiene and Health Benefits to Waterproof Plywood
Since bathrooms are generally the most moisture saturated areas of the home, they are also the most prone to mold and bacteria. Although waterproof plywood’s resistance to water absorption reduces the growth of mold and allows for more sanitary environments, this is particularly important for the enclosed bathrooms that maintain damp conditions for an extended period of time.
Aesthetics Without Compromise
Waterproof plywood will readily accept laminates, veneers, and paints equally and is a great option for creating the desired look of the home, whether modern, minimalist or classic. Therefore, waterproof plywood is an excellent choice to support a wide range of styles and does not compromise performance.
Choosing the Correct Quality
All plywood labelled as being “water resistant” is not created equal, so it is critical that the products selected be of certified and high quality. Most professionals prefer to use proven products, such as Royale Touche Waterproof Plywood, when developing cabinets for bathrooms that require moisture resistance and durability.
Conclusion
When using the correct material for cabinetry in a bathroom, bathroom cabinetry becomes less demanding. Waterproof Plywood provides all of the necessary qualities: strength, moisture resistance, etc., and it provides the homeowner with long-lasting, worry-free bathroom cabinetry.