Firstly, Greenstar is a sustainability rating & certification system. It recognises the use of legally sourced timber that are certified by a forest certification scheme such as FSC or PEFC via Green Star Timber Credits.
Second, the plywood options that meet this criterion include:
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
Sustainable forestry is a vital cause to us here at Plywood and Panel. At first, hearing the words ‘sustainable’ and ‘forestry’ together might seem like an oxymoron; however, with careful planning, certain harvesting methods, and an active commitment to achieving the highest ecological, social, and ethical standards, the words can accurately co-exist.
In Australia, Responsible Wood pioneered the development of certification standards and schemes to ensure that any and all forest-based products are harvested, produced, and supplied with the highest respect for ecological, social, and ethical standards. Covering more than 90% of Australia’s forests, Responsible Wood’s certification scheme is the leading mechanism that provides guidance and accountability to forest managers, manufacturers and suppliers. The question still remains, what methods actually ensure sustainable forestry?
Sustainable harvesting methods such as Variable Retention Harvesting (VRH) ensure the necessary balance of ecological, social and ethical impacts.
What do these methods comprise of? Well, let’s first take a look at Variable Retention Harvesting(video below). VRH is a unique harvesting method that ensures the continuation of young and mature trees. Extensive planning goes into this process to ensure that biodiversity is maintained for the continued health of forest’s ecosystems. Essentially, this harvesting method emulates natural disturbances to ensure – as the name suggests – retention of the natural model of a forest which suits the whole suite of organisms and species residing within.
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
A common question we get asked is do we stock any oversized plywood sheets? The answer is yes! Suited for both interior and semi-exposed exterior applications, our Gaboon Hardwood range is the perfect option if you’re after oversized sheets with strength and good appearance.
For available sheet size and thickness, please see the specifications below.
Twenty-three-year-old Brisbane local, Tom Robinson, is currently attempting to do what most what consider impossible: a solo row across the Pacific Ocean from South America to Australia. As if this world record breaking attempt isn’t impressive enough, Tom is completing this journey in his self-built rowboat, Maiwar.
Maiwar, an indigenous word for Brisbane River is a testament to Tom’s roots – having spent much of his youth rowing the river. Tom’s dedication to rowing began in the Brisbane River, having rowed to and from school and it didn’t stop there. At a mere fourteen years of age, Tom rowed from Brisbane to the Gold Coast solo.
Having approached us in the very early stages of planning, we recommended he speak directly with Austral Plywoods. Like so many others, we have loved keeping up with Tom’s journey through his Blog.
Maiwar is a 7-metre-long rowboat designed and constructed by Tom using Austral Marine Plywood. The build, which took five months, was based on a traditional whaleboat design. Check out the early stages of the build below:
Maiwar Build
You might think crafting the vessel out of Plywood to be an unusual choice, seeing as though the boat is expected to be at sea for some twelve plus months. However, for Tom there was no other choice. We commend Tom for his commitment to sustainability when planning his build, choosing sustainable Queensland-grown plantation Hoop Pine rather than less environmentally friendly materials such as plastic or carbon fibre.
View more impressive images from Tom’s trek below and make sure to subscribe to his website for updates and to track his record-breaking progress.
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
A common question we get asked is: What is the difference between Standard and Moisture Resistant MDF? Though both panels share some benefits, such as a uniform finish and smooth surface, moisture resistance is not one of these shared benefits. As the name suggests, the Standard panels do not provide protection against humidity and accidental wetting like their Moisture Resistant counterparts and consequently, what panel is best for you will depend on the application.
What creates the difference between the panels?
The primary factor that creates this difference is the resin used in the manufacturing process. Unlike Standard panels, Moisture Resistance panels utilise a specially formulated water-resistant resin, making it the perfect option for applications such as kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, or laundry cupboards. For other interior applications that are not exposed to high humidity or damp conditions, such as wall linings or furniture, the Standard MDF panels are suitable.
How to tell the difference between MDF and MDFMR?
For Standard MDF, an orange chalk line runs down one long side close to the edge and for Moisture Resistance MDF, a green chalk line does the same.
If you are considering converting your caravan for a #vanlife experience, plywood may just be your best friend. In recent years, with a growing sector of campervan users in Australia, we have been fortunate enough to see some spectacular conversions using our plywood.
Whether you value a high-end luxurious finish, or are seeking a cozy coastal vibe, plywood can transform the interior of your van into a home on wheels. Though plywood has been a popular material for such fit-outs for a while now – due to its relatively low cost, visual variety and lightweight nature – we understand that it may still be a daunting task to choose which plywood is best for you. Whether you’re a newbie to the game, or you’ve mastered the art of van makeovers (and as such, have conquered the tetris-like challenges of van renos), this guide will give you information and inspiration for your project.
Pinterest Inspiration
What plywood do we recommend?
Walls & Ceilings
First and foremost, there are a number of plywood options suited to fitting out a van’s interior. For walls and ceilings, we recommend our A/C Hoop Pine (beautiful blonde colour). What makes the Hoop Pine the front running contender for walls & ceilings? Other than its aesthetic appeal and high-quality finish, the Hoop Pine is a lightweight ply – perfect for a mini home. We can’t talk about the benefits of Hoop Pine and not mention its friendly cost. Alternatively, our Birch Multiply (white in colour) is another great alternative for wall & ceiling lining. Between both options, we are sure that your desired aesthetic can be achieved.
With various colour options, our pre-finished Polyester Plywood is perfect for wall & ceiling linings. We also supply white & grey h-moulds and end caps. Alternatively, if you’re after a ply that you can paint, our BB/CC Hardwood or B/B Hoop Pine are both affordable alternatives.
If you’re after a plank look for your ceilings or walls, we recommend checking out VJ Plus.
Areas Exposed to Moisture
Inevitably, there will be areas of the van that will be exposed to some level of moisture. Irrespective of whether you plan a luxe kitchen and bathroom, or are satisfied with a trusty little sink, the longevity of these areas will depend on the plywood you use. Our Marine Plywood – specifically designed to withstand long-term full exposure to wet or damp conditions – is the perfect answer to ensure that no moisture related issues occur (such as warping). What sets this product apart is its solid grade core, ensuring no core gaps that water can seep into. Furthermore, Marine plywood has an A-bond glue line that protects the sheets from moisture.
Flooring
Our CD Structural Hardwood is a durable plywood that is suitable for flooring applications. It is structurally rates and suitable for indoor or semi-exposed applications. With both tongue and grooved options available, it is the perfect option for your caravan flooring needs.
Our CD Structural H3 ACQ pine is a total veneer preservation treated plywood that is designed to withstand exposure to periodic moderate wetting, making it suitable for exterior applications.
Hopefully this guide has given you the answers you need to complete your van transformation. If you’re reading to start, feel free to come in store and check out our range.
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
For applications such as bus or trailer floors, exterior walls or situations with exposure to high humidity, look no further than our CD Structural Treated Pine Plywood. This particular ply is ACQ H3 treated which provides the same level of protection as plywood which is used for trench covers by Energex. Although this ply is not CCA treated, it is ACQ treated to the H3 level which is in line with the requirement from Energex.
Suited for a multitude of applications, our CD Structural Exterior Plywood is manufactured from responsibly harvested pine and is intended for use in harsh exterior applications that will be exposed to insect attacks, periodic moderate wetting, leaching and the consequent rot & moderate decay.
This Vanuatu Villa Refurbishment demonstrates the application of sustainably grown Kokoda Hardwood Plywood. Chosen specifically for its appearance grade, the...
