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Elegant, durable, and richly coloured, Sapele is a high-quality African hardwood often chosen as an alternative to mahogany for its similar appearance and superior strength. We offer premium Sapele lumber and veneers ideal for fine furniture, cabinetry, doors, panelling, and musical instruments where beauty and performance go hand in hand. Sapele features a reddish-brown hue with interlocking grain that can produce beautiful ribbon-like or wavy patterns, especially when quarter-sawn. It machines and finishes well, taking stains and clear coats with ease to reveal its deep natural lustre. Known for its stability and resistance to wear, it’s a top choice for both structural and decorative applications. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood specializes in hard-to-find, high-quality wood species and personalized, expert service. Whether you're crafting a refined interior or a standout feature piece, Sapele offers timeless elegance, strength, and reliable workability.
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.