When you purchase 5/8" plywood, you might assume it’s exactly 5/8" thick. However, the actual thickness can differ slightly due to industry standards and manufacturing processes.
The actual thickness of 5/8" plywood is typically 0.5937 inches, or approximately 15.875 mm.
Understanding the real thickness is crucial for ensuring your plywood fits the spaces and applications you intend for it. Let’s dive into this common measurement and how it affects construction and renovation.
Is 5/8" plywood really 5/8" thick?
No, 5/8" plywood is not exactly 5/8" thick. The nominal thickness of plywood refers to the rounded value for easier classification, but the actual thickness is typically a bit less.
Actual thickness of 5/8" plywood is around 0.5937 inches, which is slightly thinner than 5/8" (0.625 inches).
Why the difference?
- Manufacturing tolerances: Plywood is often slightly sanded down during production.
- Nominal vs. Actual: The nominal size is a general classification, not a precise measurement.
For projects where precision is important, always measure plywood before cutting or installing to avoid surprises.
What is the difference between 23/32 and 5/8 plywood?
23/32" plywood is thicker than 5/8" plywood by approximately 0.125 inches, or 1/8".
- 23/32" plywood measures 0.71875 inches, which is slightly thicker than 5/8" plywood, which is approximately 0.5937 inches.
- 23/32" plywood is closer to 3/4" (0.75 inches), making it a better choice for structural or load-bearing applications like subflooring and heavy-duty framing.
Key takeaway: While 5/8" plywood is commonly used in construction for areas that require moderate strength, 23/32" plywood is a stronger alternative, often used in applications where additional strength is required.
What is the true thickness of plywood?
Plywood is usually sold by its nominal thickness, but the actual thickness is always slightly less.
Here’s a quick breakdown of actual vs. nominal thickness for common plywood sizes:
| Nominal Thickness | Actual Thickness |
|---|---|
| 1/4" | ~0.219" |
| 3/8" | ~0.344" |
| 1/2" | ~0.469" |
| 5/8" | ~0.5937" |
| 3/4" | ~0.719" |
This difference is small but important for accurate measurements, particularly when fitting plywood into custom spaces.
How thick is 5/8 CDX plywood?
5/8" CDX plywood, typically used for construction applications like subflooring and sheathing, has the same nominal thickness as regular 5/8" plywood but may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.
- The actual thickness is about 0.5937 inches (15.875 mm), similar to other 5/8" plywood types.
- CDX plywood refers to a grade used for exterior applications, meaning it’s designed to handle outdoor conditions better than interior plywood.
For structural applications like subflooring, CDX plywood offers durability and strength, but it should still be sealed or protected to prevent moisture damage.
Conclusion
The true thickness of 5/8" plywood is around 0.5937 inches, or 15.875 mm, slightly thinner than its nominal size. When planning your construction or renovation projects, always account for this small variation, especially for structural applications like flooring or cabinetry. For 5/8" plywood, it’s commonly used in sheathing, subflooring, and areas where moderate strength and dimensional stability are needed.