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Known for its smooth grain and warm, rustic appearance, alder wood is a versatile and popular choice for interior doors, cabinetry, and millwork. We offer a curated selection of alder products that blend natural beauty with workability—making it a favourite among woodworkers, renovators, and builders alike. Often chosen as a cost-effective alternative to cherry or maple, alder is easy to machine, sands beautifully, and takes stain exceptionally well, allowing for a wide range of finishes to match your style. Its straight, uniform grain and light-to-medium brown tones make it ideal for both traditional and modern design applications. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood specializes in hard-to-source wood products and expert service. Whether you’re building custom furniture or updating your home’s interior, explore our selection of alder and bring the warmth of real wood into your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of plywood and sheet goods does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries cabinet-grade hardwood plywood, construction-grade fir plywood, marine plywood, MDF, particle board, melamine, MDO, and specialty products including Baltic birch, formply, and thermally fused laminates. The range covers fine woodworking, cabinet making, construction, and specialty applications.
What is the difference between cabinet-grade and construction-grade plywood?
Cabinet-grade plywood uses veneer face grades of A or B, meaning the face and back are free from major defects and suitable for exposed applications. Construction-grade plywood uses lower veneer grades and is built for structural performance in sheathing, subfloor, and framing applications where appearance is not a factor.
What does Baltic birch plywood offer that standard birch plywood does not?
Baltic birch is manufactured with more plies per thickness, using full-sized sheets without voids or fillers, and with a consistent birch veneer throughout all plies. The result is a void-free, stable sheet with clean, even edges that are attractive when visible, a significant advantage for furniture, drawer boxes, and joinery applications.
What thickness of plywood is best for cabinet boxes?
Three-quarter inch (18mm or 19mm) plywood is the standard for cabinet boxes, shelving, and carcasses where strength and screw-holding capacity matter. Half-inch plywood is used for cabinet backs and smaller drawer boxes. For drawer boxes that will take significant weight, Baltic birch in half or three-quarter inch is the preferred choice.
What is MDO plywood and what is it used for?
MDO (Medium Density Overlay) plywood has a resin-impregnated fibre face bonded to the plywood surface under heat and pressure. This creates an extremely smooth, paintable surface that is also moisture-resistant. It is commonly used for concrete forming, exterior signage, and any application requiring a smooth painted face exposed to weather.