Plywood is categorized as what type of product?

Plywood is categorized as an engineered wood product because it is manufactured by gluing together thin layers or "veneer" of wood. This layering process enhances the strength and stability of the material compared to solid wood, making it less prone to warping and splitting. The process involves arranging the grain of the wood layers in different directions, which increases the durability and performance of the plywood.

Engineered wood products like plywood are specifically designed and manufactured to provide consistent performance and reliability, often utilizing fast-growing tree species that can be replenished quickly. This stands in contrast to natural wood products, which are sourced directly from trees without such processing, and composite materials, which typically involve a mixture of different materials to create a new product. Plywood's manufacturing process and the benefits of design make it an ideal choice in construction, furniture-making, and other applications requiring versatility and strength.