Sheet materials are manufactured boards used across construction, joinery, and furniture making. Unlike solid timber, they are engineered to be more stable, consistent and cost effective.
Each board type has its own properties, making it better suited to specific applications. The goal of this guide is to give you a better understanding of each type, and help you make a decision that’s best for your project.
From plywood and OSB to MDF and chipboard, knowing their differences helps you choose the right product.
With such a wide selection, choosing the right sheet material can make a big difference to both the look and performance of your project.
Plywood Sheets
Key features of plywood
Plywood is made by bonding thin veneers of timber with the grain running at right angles. This cross-layering gives excellent stability, reducing the risk of warping or splitting.
It is strong, durable, and available in a wide range of thicknesses and grades, including structural and marine ply for demanding environments.
What is plywood used for?
It is commonly used in flooring, roofing, wall sheathing, furniture, and cabinetry. Marine plywood is popular for bathrooms, kitchens, and external applications where water resistance is needed.
How much is plywood?
Plywood varies by grade and thickness, but prices usually start from around £25–£30 per sheet for basic softwood ply, with marine or hardwood-faced options typically £50+.
Blockboard
Key features of blockboard
Blockboard is built with a core of softwood strips sandwiched between veneer layers. It is lighter than plywood, resists warping, and is easy to work with.
What is blockboard used for?
It is best for internal use, such as doors, shelves, panelling, and lightweight furniture.
How much is blockboard?
Blockboard is usually priced between £30–£45 per sheet depending on thickness and face finish.
Chipboard
Key features of chipboard
Chipboard, or particle board, is produced by compressing wood chips and resin. It is affordable, smooth, and stable. Moisture-resistant grades (such as P5) are available for kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring.
What is chipboard used for?
It is widely used for flooring, flat-pack furniture, and kitchen worktops. Veneered chipboard also offers a neat decorative finish.
How much is chipboard?
Standard chipboard starts from around £15–£20 per sheet, with moisture-resistant or decorative boards typically £25–£40.
MDF Boards
Key features of MDF
MDF (medium density fibreboard) is made from compressed wood fibres and resin. It has a smooth, uniform surface and cuts cleanly without splintering.
What is MDF used for?
MDF is ideal for interior projects such as shelving, cabinet doors, mouldings, and panelling. It is easy to paint or veneer but not suitable for prolonged damp conditions.
How much is MDF?
Standard MDF costs around £20–£30 per sheet, while moisture-resistant or fire-rated boards are priced from £35+.
Hardboard
Key features of hardboard
Hardboard is a dense fibreboard, thinner than MDF but strong and durable. It is available tempered or standard, with smooth or textured finishes.
What is hardboard used for?
Hardboard is used for drawer bottoms, cupboard backs, panelling, and flooring underlay. Tempered types offer better resistance to wear.
How much is hardboard?
Hardboard sheets are budget-friendly, starting from £10–£15.
OSB Sheets
Key features of OSB
OSB (oriented strand board) is created from layers of compressed wooden strands arranged in specific directions for strength. It is tough, stable, and an economical alternative to plywood.
What is OSB used for?
OSB is widely used in flooring, roofing, and wall sheathing. It is reliable for structural applications, though less decorative than plywood.
How much is OSB?
OSB generally costs £15–£25 per sheet, depending on thickness and grade.
Choosing the Right Sheet Material
Each type of sheet material has its own pros and cons, and in that case, has its own use cases. The right choice depends on the project, the environment it will be used in, and the finish you want to achieve.
At JP Northants, our team can help you select the most suitable timber sheet material for joinery, flooring, or structural work. Contact us today with any questions, or if you’re ready to make an order, we can help with that too - delivery available direct to your home.