Grade 1 vs Grade 2 Film Faced Plywood: What’s the Real Difference?

Grade 1 or Grade 2 formwork plywood? Compare durability, reuse times, finish quality and cost to find the most cost-effective option for your project.

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One of the most common questions we receive is the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 film faced plywood. Both are designed for concrete formwork, but they differ in performance, lifespan and total cost of ownership. Let’s break them down clearly.

Core Material & Film Quality

• Grade 1: Uses high-density poplar/eucalyptus core with a thick black or brown phenolic film surface. The film is evenly coated, wear-resistant, and leaves a smooth, mark-free concrete finish.
• Grade 2: Uses standard wood core with a thinner film layer. It delivers acceptable concrete results but may show slight surface marks after multiple uses.

Reusability & Lifespan

• Grade 1: 15+ uses under proper maintenance, suitable for long-cycle, large-scale projects
• Grade 2: 8–10 uses, ideal for short-term, low-rise projects with fewer pours

Cost Performance

Grade 1 has a higher upfront price, but its longer lifespan lowers the cost per use. For contractors with ongoing projects, Grade 1 delivers better long-term value. For one-off or small jobs, Grade 2 is a more budget-friendly choice.

Which Should You Choose?

Dayang Wood supplies both Grade 1 and Grade 2 formwork plywood with consistent factory quality. Tell us your project details and we will help you select the most cost-effective solution.