01 Six checks on the rack
Six checks on the rack
- Measure the thickness with a caliper at a corner and in the middle of an edge, on two or three sheets from the stack.
- Read the edge. Plywood layers should run unbroken from one side to the other; a gap or overlap shows as a dark break. An MDF edge should look even all the way through, with no crumbly centre.
- Check the face. No blisters, bubbles or lifting veneer at the corners. On melamine, look for chips and scratches along the edges.
- Sight for bow and twist. Look along the length of the sheet; it should lie flat.
- Look for water damage. Swollen or soft edges and stains mean the board has been wet.
- Match the grade to the price. HDF is sold in grades No.1 (no damage) to No.3 (some damage); know which one you are paying for.
02 What to look for by board
What to look for by board
| Board | Main check | Warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Edge layers and thickness | Core gaps; layers separating (delaminating) after cutting |
| Shutter board, film-faced plywood | Film face and sealed edges | Torn film; open edges that will soak up water from the concrete |
| MDF | Thickness and an even edge | Swollen edges, soft centre |
| Melamine | Face and edges | Chips, scratches, colour differences between sheets |
| HMR and eco board | Thickness and face | Swelling (HMR), dents (eco board) |
03 Why it matters
Why it matters
MDF quality varies between dealers in Colombo, as a University of Sri Jayewardenepura study found. A board that is under its label or hollow inside costs more than its price: re-cuts, rejected work and a client who sees a shelf sag. At Newply every sheet sits on an open rack, so you can run these checks before anything is loaded.
How to order
- WhatsApp the board, thickness, quantity and delivery location to +94 70 373 7515, or call 011 436 8919.
- We confirm stock and send today's price, including delivery.
- Collect from 110/A, Colombo Road, Piliyandala, or we deliver on our own lorries (island-wide depending on order size).
04 Board quality questions
Board quality questions
How do I know if plywood is good quality?
Measure the thickness, look down the edge for unbroken layers, and check the face and corners. Good plywood measures close to its label and shows no core gaps.
What is a hollow core in plywood?
A gap inside the board where a layer is missing or broken. You can see it as a dark break when you look down the edge.
How do I check MDF quality?
Measure the thickness and look at the edge: it should be even and firm all the way through, with no swelling.
Why does some plywood measure less than its label?
Some boards are made thinner than the thickness they are sold as. Measuring before you pay is the only sure check.
Can I check sheets at Newply before paying?
Yes. Visit 110/A, Colombo Road, Piliyandala, Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm. Bring a caliper if you have one.