Plywood Calculator
A 24x32 ft floor (768 sq ft) requires 24 standard 4x8 ft plywood sheets for subflooring. At $30-$70 per sheet depending on thickness and grade, materials cost $720-$1,680. Add 10% waste for cuts, bringing the total to 27 sheets.
Plywood Calculator
Enter your project dimensions for instant results.
You Need
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How to Calculate Plywood
Divide your total area by the sheet size (standard 4x8 ft = 32 sq ft per sheet). Add 10% for cuts and waste, more for complex layouts.
| Plywood Thickness | Common Use | Weight per Sheet | Cost per Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 in (6mm) | Paneling, underlayment | 22 lbs | $15-$30 |
| 3/8 in (9mm) | Wall sheathing, crafts | 28 lbs | $20-$40 |
| 1/2 in (12mm) | Wall sheathing, shelving | 40 lbs | $25-$50 |
| 5/8 in (15mm) | Roof decking, subflooring | 48 lbs | $30-$55 |
| 3/4 in (18mm) | Subflooring, cabinets | 60 lbs | $35-$70 |
| 1 in (25mm) | Heavy-duty shelving | 70 lbs | $50-$90 |
| Plywood Grade | Face Quality | Back Quality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-A | Smooth both sides | Smooth | Cabinets, furniture |
| A-B | Smooth face | Minor defects | Shelving, visible projects |
| B-C | Some patches | Knots allowed | Sheathing, subflooring |
| CDX | Knots, patches | Rough | Roof/wall sheathing |
| Marine | Waterproof glue | Few voids | Boats, outdoor |
Tips
- Plan sheet layout on paper first to minimize cuts and waste
- Stagger plywood joints over floor joists for stronger subflooring
- Leave 1/8-inch expansion gaps between sheets for temperature changes
- CDX plywood is rated for exterior exposure but is not waterproof long-term
- T&G (tongue and groove) plywood is worth the premium for subflooring as it eliminates squeaks
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sheets of plywood do I need?
Divide your project area in square feet by 32 (the area of a standard 4x8 sheet). A 768 sq ft floor needs 24 sheets. Add 10% waste for 27 sheets total. For complex shapes with many cuts, add 15%.
What thickness plywood for subflooring?
Use 3/4-inch (23/32 actual) tongue-and-groove plywood for subflooring over joists spaced 16 inches on center. For 24-inch joist spacing, use 7/8-inch or 1-inch plywood. Thinner plywood will flex and squeak.
How much does a sheet of plywood cost?
A standard 4x8 sheet costs $25-$70 depending on thickness and grade. 1/2-inch CDX sheathing runs $25-$40. 3/4-inch BC subflooring costs $35-$55. Cabinet-grade 3/4-inch plywood is $50-$90 per sheet.
What is the difference between OSB and plywood?
OSB (oriented strand board) costs 15-25% less than plywood and performs similarly for sheathing and subflooring. Plywood handles moisture better and holds screws more securely at edges. Both are code-approved for structural use.
How much does a 4x8 sheet of plywood weigh?
Weight depends on thickness: 1/4-inch weighs 22 lbs, 1/2-inch weighs 40 lbs, 3/4-inch weighs 60 lbs. Pressure-treated plywood weighs 20-30% more due to chemical retention.
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