Plywood is divided into solid and durable (or laminated). Painting solid plywood significantly extends its durability, protects against rot, pests, and moisture.

Preparation for painting

The goal of preparation is to create a smooth surface that adheres perfectly to the paint.

Coating

Before painting, the surface of the plywood can be coated with wood putty. This will even out serious irregularities, fill in cracks, and hide screw and nail heads. However, this step is not mandatory.

Sanding

  • Use sandpaper #80-120 to remove roughness.
  • Movements - across and perpendicular to the wood texture.
  • If a varnish coating is planned, additional sanding with fine-grit sandpaper #360-600 is required in the direction of the fibers.
  • The edges of the plywood should also be treated with centered movements.

Priming

Priming protects the plywood from mold and improves paint adhesion to the surface. The optimal option is alkyd primer, applied with a roller or brush in hard-to-reach areas. 1-2 coats are sufficient.

What to paint with

  • Acrylic paint. Dries quickly, has no strong odor, and is easy to apply.
  • Water-based and water-dispersion paints. Environmentally friendly, suitable for interior work.
  • Alkyd paint. Durable, but takes longer to dry.
  • Pentaftal enamel (PF). Forms a strong film coating, suitable for both interior and exterior use.

All these paints can be matte or glossy.

Tools

  • For large surfaces, it is more convenient to use a foam roller.
  • A paint sprayer is suitable for achieving a perfectly even layer.

How to paint plywood

Plywood is painted in 2-3 coats:

  1. The first coat is applied parallel to the wood fibers. Allow the paint to dry.
  2. The second coat is applied perpendicular to the first coat.
  3. The third coat is applied parallel to the wood fibers again.

How to varnish plywood

  • The varnish is allowed to sit in an open container for 30 minutes before application.
  • It is applied with a foam roller or brush in 2-3 coats.
  • After each coat has dried, it is sanded with sandpaper #400-600 for better adhesion.