VOLU NTA RY PROD UC T S TA N DA R D

PS 1-19
Structural Plywood

Effective Date December 1, 2019

Reproduced from copy furnished by the Office of Standards Services,

National Institute of Standards and Technology
PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Certain commercial entities, equipment or materials may be identified in this document in order to
describe an experimental procedure or concept adequately. Such identification is not intended to imply
recommendation or endorsement by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, nor is it intended
to imply that the entities, materials or equipment are necessarily the best available for the purpose.
Additional information concerning the development and use of this standard can obtained by contacting
the Standards Coordination Office, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, MS
2100, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-2100 or visiting Standards.Gov.

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) VOLUNTARY

PRODUCT STANDARDS
DOC Voluntary Product Standards are developed under procedures published by the Department of
Commerce in Title 15 Code of Federal Regulations Part 10, Procedures for the Development of Voluntary
Product Standards. The purpose of these standards is to establish nationally recognized requirements
for products and to provide all concerned interests with a basis for common understanding of
the characteristics of the products. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
administers the Voluntary Product Standards program on a reimbursable basis.

ROLE OF NIST
The role of NIST in the establishment of a DOC Voluntary Product Standard is to act as an
unbiased coordinator in the development of the standard, provide editorial assistance in
the preparation of the standard, supply such assistance and review as is required to assure
the technical soundness of the standard and seek satisfactory adjustment of valid points of
disagreement. NIST also determines compliance with the criteria of the Department’s procedures
and publishes the standard as a public document.
Producers, distributors, users, consumers and other interested groups contribute to the
establishment of Voluntary Product Standards. These groups initiate and participate in the
development of the standards, provide technical or other counsel as appropriate, promote the use
of and support for the standards and assist in keeping them current with respect to advancing
technology and marketing practices.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

USE OF VOLUNTARY PRODUCT STANDARDS

The use of DOC Voluntary Product Standards is voluntary. NIST has no regulatory power in the
enforcement of their provisions; however, since the standards represent a consensus of interested
groups, their provisions are likely to become established as trade customs.
The benefits derived from a DOC Voluntary Product Standard are in direct proportion to
their general recognition and actual use. Producers and distributors whose products meet the
requirements of a DOC Voluntary Product Standard may refer to the standard in advertising and on
labels to promote greater public understanding for confidence in their products. At times, purchasers
may order products conforming to the requirements of a DOC Voluntary Product Standard.

ABSTRACT
This standard covers performance requirements, adhesive bond performance, grades, panel
construction and workmanship, dimensions and tolerances, marking and moisture content of
structural plywood. The standard classifies structural plywood by bond classification, span rating,
performance category and grade. It provides test methods, a glossary of trade terms and definitions
and a quality certification program whereby agencies inspect, sample and test products for
conformance to this standard. Information regarding industry practices for reinspection, history of
the standard, labeling and formaldehyde attributes are provided in nonmandatory appendices.

KEYWORDS
Adhesive bond classification; certification; construction sheathing; dimensions and tolerances;
marking; moisture content; performance requirements; span rating; performance category;
structural plywood; test methods; voluntary standard.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

CONTENTS
1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 APPENDIX A.
2 TERMINOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Species Grouping (Mandatory) . . . . . . . . . . . 61
A1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
3 REFERENCE PUBLICATIONS . . . . . . . . . 10 A2 Grouping in practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
4 PLYWOOD CLASSIFCATION . . . . . . . . . 11 A3 Species grouping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
4.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 APPENDIX B.
4.2 Bond classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Reinspection Practices (Non-Mandatory) . . . 64
4.3 Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 B1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5 REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 B2 Request for reinspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 B3 Responsibility of the buyer . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5.2 Wood species . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 B4 Responsibility of the seller . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5.3 Synthetic repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 B5 Responsibility of the qualified inspection
5.4 Grade desription of veneers . . . . . . . . . . . 14 agency conducting the reinspection . . . . . . 65
5.5 Veneers and layers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 B6 Cost and assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
5.6 Panel grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 B7 Reinspection procedures and settlement . . 65
5.7 Adhesive bond requirements APPENDIX C.
for a panel or a lot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 General Information and Comments on
5.8 Panel constructions and workmanship . . . . 29 Current Edition (Non-Mandatory) . . . . . . . . . 67
5.9 Scarf and finger jointed panels . . . . . . . . . 45 C1 History of the project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
5.10 Dimensional tolerances and squareness
of panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 APPENDIX D.
5.11 Moisture content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Recommend thickness labels
5.12 Loading or packing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 (Non-Mandatory) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
D1 Recommended thickness labels . . . . . . . . . 69
6 SPECIMEN PREPARATION D2 Regulations on labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
AND TESTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
6.1 Bond classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 APPENDIX E.
6.2 Structural performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Labeling Guidelines Based on the Uniform
Packaging and Labeling Regulations of
7 GRADEMARKING NIST Handbook 130 and Handbook 133
AND CERTIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 (Non-Mandatory) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
7.1 Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 E1 Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
7.2 Qualified inspection and testing agency . . 58 E2 Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
7.3 Panel marking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
7.4 Voiding marks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 APPENDIX F.
Formaldehyde (Non-Mandatory) . . . . . . . . . 72
8 EFFECTIVE DATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 F1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
9 STANDING COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . 60 F2 Formaldehyde regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
F3 Formaldehyde emission from
PS 1 Plywood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
APA TRADEMARKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-19

Structural Plywood
This revision effective December 1, 2019.

(This Standard, which was initiated by APA – The Engineered Wood Association [formerly the
American Plywood Association], has been developed under the Procedures for the Development
of Voluntary Product Standards of the U.S. Department of Commerce as a revision of PS 1-09,
Structural Plywood.)

1 SCOPE
1.1 This Voluntary Product Standard establishes requirements for the principal types and
grades of structural plywood and provides a basis for common understanding among
producers, distributors and users of the product.
1.2 This Standard covers the wood species, veneer grading, adhesive bonds, panel
construction and workmanship, dimensions and tolerances, marking, moisture content
and packaging of structural plywood intended for construction and industrial uses.
1.3 I ncluded in this Standard are test methods to determine compliance and a glossary
of trade terms and definitions. A quality certification program is provided whereby
qualified testing agencies inspect, sample and test products identified as complying with
this Standard. Information on species grouping is provided in Appendix A. Information
on reinspecting practices is provided in Appendix B. Information on the maintenance,
history and current edition of the Standard is provided in Appendix C. Recommended
thickness labeling is provided in Appendix D. Information on labeling regulations from
NIST Handbook 130 and NIST Handbook 133 are provided in Appendix E. Information
on formaldehyde emissions is provided in Appendix F.
1.4 T
 his Voluntary Product Standard incorporates the International System of Units (SI) as
well as U.S. customary units of measurement. In conversion of U.S. customary units
where exact placement is not an issue, such as nail spacing, approximate conversions to
SI units are made to yield more easily recognizable numbers. In critical matters, such
as panel thickness, more precise conversions to SI units are made. For nominal U.S.
customary units, actual dimensions in SI units are given. The values given in SI units
are the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.5  dvisory notes in this Standard and Appendices B through F are informational and shall
A
not be considered mandatory.

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2 TERMINOLOGY
2.1 Back
Back of a plywood panel — The side of a panel that is of lower veneer quality on any
panel whose outer plies (front and back) are of different veneer grades.
Back ply of a plywood panel — The outer veneer on the back side of a panel.

2.2 Bond classifications

Plywood is rated as Exposure 1 or Exterior bond classification. (See Sections 2.20 and 2.21.)

2.3 Borer holes

Voids made by wood-boring insects, such as grubs or worms.

2.4 Broken grain

A separation on veneer surface between annual rings, such as leafing or shelling.

2.5 Butt joint

A straight joint in which the interface is perpendicular to the panel face. An end butt
joint is perpendicular to the grain.

2.6 Centers
Inner layers whose grain direction runs parallel to that of the outer plies. Some centers
consist of parallel laminated plies.

2.7 Center gap

See Section 2.16.

2.8 Characteristics, growth

Discolorations, pitch streaks and knots that naturally occur in wood.

2.9 Characteristics, open

Irregularities such as splits, open joints, knotholes, loose knots or wane.

2.10 Check
A lengthwise separation of wood fibers, usually extending across the rings of annual
growth, caused chiefly by strains produced in seasoning.

2.11 Class I, II
Term used to identify different classifications of concrete form panels. (See Section 5.6.4.)

2.12 Construction (panel construction)

Term referring to detailed manner in which veneers are assembled and/or thickness of
veneer used, e.g., “4-ply 3-layer construction,” “2.5 mm (1/10 in.) face and back,” etc.

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2.13 Core
See Section 2.15.

2.14 Critical Section

A rectangular area measuring 305 mm (12 in.) along the grain by full panel width that
contains a knot or knothole requiring additional consideration. (See Sections 5.4.4.3,
5.4.6.2 and 5.4.6.3.)

2.15 Crossband
Inner, or core, plies whose grain direction runs perpendicular to that of the outer plies.
Some crossbands consist of parallel laminated plies.

2.16 Crossband gap and center gap

An open joint extending through or partially through a panel, which results when
crossband or center veneers are not tightly butted.

2.17 Delamination
A visible separation between plies that normally receive adhesive at their interface and
are firmly contacted in the pressing operation. Wood characteristics such as checking,
leafing, splitting and broken grain are not to be construed as delamination.
2.17.1 Knotholes, pitch pockets, splits and gaps
For purpose of evaluation of delamination, areas coinciding with open knotholes, pitch
pockets, splits, and gaps and other voids or characteristics permitted in the panel grade
are not considered in evaluating ply separation.
2.17.2 Delamination of Exposure 1 Panels
In evaluating Exposure 1 panels, delamination in any bond line is not to exceed
19.4 cm2 (3 in.2) except where directly attributable to characteristics permitted in the
grade as follows:
Delamination associated with:
a. Knots and knotholes — Not to exceed the size of the knot or knothole plus a
surrounding band not wider than 19.1 mm (3/4 in.).
b. All other forms of permissible characteristics — Not to exceed the size of the
characteristic.
2.17.3 Delamination of Exterior Panels
For purposes of evaluation of Exterior panels for ply separation, the area coinciding with
the grade characteristics noted in Section 2.17.1 is considered, and a panel is considered
delaminated if visible ply separation at a single bond line in such area exceeds 19.4 cm2
(3 in.2).

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2.18 Depression
A minor disruption of the panel surface with a smooth boundary.

2.19 Edge splits

Wedge-shaped openings in the inner plies caused by splitting of the veneer before
pressing.

2.20 Exposure 1
Bond classification for panels suitable for uses not permanently exposed to the weather.
Panels classified as Exposure 1 are intended to resist the effects of moisture on structural
performance as may occur during construction or other conditions of similar severity.

2.21 Exterior
Bond classification for panels suitable for repeated wetting and redrying or long-term
exposure to weather or other conditions of similar severity.

2.22 Face
Face of the plywood panel — The side of a panel that is of higher veneer quality on any
panel whose outer plies (front and back) are of different veneer grades; either side of a
panel where the grading rules draw no distinction between outer plies.
Face ply of a panel — The outer veneer on the face of a panel.

2.23 Finger joint

Term indicating the method by which panels or sections of panels have been joined to
create longer lengths or widths by means of a well-bonded series of sloped scarf cuts
resembling fingers.

2.24 Group
Term used to classify species or panels covered by this Standard. Species covered by this
Standard are classified as Groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. See Table 1 and Appendix A for listing
of species in individual groups. Section 5.8.7 provides procedures for grouping of panels
with species not listed in Table 1.

2.25 Heartwood
Nonactive core of a log generally distinguishable from the outer portion (sapwood) by its
darker color.

2.26 Indent
A disruption of the panel surface with sharp or distinct edges.

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2.27 Inner plies

Plies other than face or back plies in a panel construction. Sub-face, sub-back, crossband
and center are classed as inner plies.

2.28 Jointed inner plies

Crossband and center veneers with edges machine-squared to permit tightest
possible layup.

2.29 Knot
Natural characteristic of wood that occurs where a branch base is embedded in the
trunk of a tree. Generally the size of a knot is distinguishable by (1) a difference in color
of limb wood and surrounding trunk wood; (2) an abrupt change in growth ring width
between knot and bordering trunk wood; and (3) a diameter of circular or oval shape
described by points where checks on the face of a knot that extend radially from its
center to its side experience an abrupt change in direction.

2.30 Knotholes
Voids produced by the dropping of knots from the wood in which they were
originally embedded.

2.31 Lap
A condition where the veneers in the same ply are so placed that one piece overlaps
the other.

2.32 Layer
A single veneer ply or two or more plies laminated with grain direction parallel. Two or
more plies laminated with grain direction parallel is a “parallel laminated layer.”

2.33 Lot
Any number of panels considered as a single group for evaluating conformance to this
Standard.

2.34 Major panel axis

The direction parallel to the grain of the face and back plies.

2.35 Mill specification

A manufacturing specification based on product evaluation to be used for quality
assurance purposes by the manufacturer and the qualified testing agency as defined in
Section 7.2. (See Sections 5.8.6.5. and 5.8.7.3.)

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2.36 Moisture content

The weight of the water in wood expressed as a percent of the weight of the oven-dry
wood. (See Section 6.1.4.)

2.37 Moisture-resistant adhesive

Adhesive capable of bonding plywood in a manner to satisfy the bond classification
requirements of this Standard.

2.38 Panel thickness

Designated thickness subject to tolerances specified in this Standard. See Section 5.10.2
for thickness tolerances. See Section 2.40 for definition of Performance Category.

2.39 Patches
Inserts of sound wood or synthetic material in veneers or panels for replacing
characteristics (open or growth). “Boat” patches are oval-shaped with sides tapering in
each direction to a point or to a small rounded end. “Compound Boat” patches have
multiple rounded or pointed ends. “Router” patches have parallel sides and rounded
ends. “Sled” patches are rectangular with feathered ends.

2.40 Performance Category

A panel designation related to the panel thickness range that is linked to the nominal
panel thickness designations used in the International Building Code (IBC) and
International Residential Code (IRC). For purposes of labeling, as defined in Section 7.3,
abbreviations PERF CAT, CAT or Category are permitted.
ADVISORY NOTE: The IRC and IBC specify a minimum 3/8 Performance Category for
wall sheathing.

2.41 Performance testing

Tests that evaluate panel attributes typically required in the end-use applications as
defined in this Standard.

2.42 Pitch pocket

A well-defined opening between rings of annual growth, usually containing, or which
has contained, pitch, either solid or liquid.

2.43 Pitch streak

A localized accumulation of resin in coniferous woods which permeates the cells
forming resin soaks, patches or streaks.

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2.44 Plugs
Sound wood of various shapes, including among others, circular and dog-bone, for
replacing portions of veneers. Also, synthetic plugs used to fill openings and provide a
smooth, level, durable surface. Plugs usually are held in veneer by friction until veneers
are bonded into plywood.

2.45 Plugged inner plies (also referred to as solid inner plies.)

Refers to C Plugged crossband and centers and additional limitations, as given in
Section 5.8.1.

2.46 Ply
A single veneer lamina in a bonded plywood panel. (See also 2.32.)

2.47 Plywood
Plywood is a panel built up of sheets of veneer called plies, united under pressure by
a bonding agent to create a panel with an adhesive bond between plies as strong as,
or stronger than, the wood. Plywood is constructed of an odd number of layers with
grain of adjacent layers perpendicular. Layers consist of a single ply or two or more
plies laminated with parallel grain direction. Outer layers and all odd-numbered
layers generally have the grain direction oriented parallel to the long dimension of the
panel. The layers with alternating grain direction equalize strains, reduce splitting and
minimize dimensional change and warping of the panel.

2.48 Plywood classification

Plywood is classified by bond classification and grade. (See Section 4.)

2.49 Prescriptive specification

A specification based upon manufacturing parameters that define the approved product.

2.50 Reference value

The numerical value established for the mill specification for a given mechanical or
physical property.

2.51 Repair
Any patch, plug or shim.

2.52 Rough grain

Grain characteristics which prevent sanding to a smooth surface.

2.53 Sapwood
The living wood of lighter color occurring in the outer portion of a log. Sometimes
referred to as “sap.”

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2.54 Scarfed joint

A term indicating the method by which panels or veneer, or sections of panels or veneer, have
been joined to create longer lengths or widths by means of a well-bonded, sloped cut.

2.55 Shim
A long, narrow repair of wood or suitable synthetic not more than 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) wide.

2.56 Shop-cutting panel

Panel which has been rejected as not conforming to a standard grade because of
deficiencies, other than adhesive bond quality, which prevent it from meeting the
requirements of this Standard. Blistered panels are not permitted within the category
of “shop-cutting panel.” Localized delamination occurring as a result of a deficiency
is permitted. Shop-cutting panels are suitable for cut-up use where cutting eliminates
the deficiency in the portion of the panel salvaged. The salvageable area shall be at least
85% of the area of the panel. Such a panel must be identified with a separate mark as
specified in Section 7.4.

2.57 Sized for Spacing

An optional panel mark indicating that the panel manufacturer has sized the panel to
allow for industry recommended panel installation spacing.

2.58 Span rating

An index number, based on customary inch units, that identifies the recommended
maximum center-to-center support spacing, or “on center” (oc) spacing, for the specified
end use under normal use conditions. Spans are defined for end uses such as roof,
subfloor and single floor. As a matter of convention, spans are typically specified by
a single index number for single floor (Floor 24 oc), while roof and subfloor are often
combined in a fractional format. For example, a span rating of 32/16 designates a roof
span of 32 inches and a subfloor span of 16 inches. As a matter of convention, a span
rating of 20 is designated for spans of 19.2 inch.

2.59 Split
Lengthwise separation of wood fibers completely through the veneer, caused chiefly by
the manufacturing process or handling.

2.60 Sub-face (sub-back)

The ply adjacent to the exposed face (or back) of a parallel laminated outer layer.

2.61 Touch-sanding
A sizing operation consisting of a light surface sanding to thickness dimension in a
sander. Sander skips to any degree are admissible.

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2.62 Veneer
Thin sheets of wood of which plywood is made. Also referred to as “plies” in the
bonded panel.

2.63 Wane
Thin to open areas in veneer sheets that result from outer log surface irregularities. Some
wane areas contain bark inclusions. For grading, wane is classed as an open characteristic.

2.64 White pocket

A form of fungal decay (Fomes pini) that attacks most conifers but has never been known to
develop in wood in service. In plywood manufacture, routine drying of veneer effectively
removes any possibility of the fungus surviving. Also known as white speck.
2.64.1 Light white pocket
Advanced beyond incipient or stain stage to a point where pockets are present and
plainly visible, mostly small and filled with white cellulose; generally distributed with no
heavy concentrations; pockets for the most part separate and distinct; few to no holes
through the veneer.
2.64.2 Heavy white pocket
Contains a great number of pockets, in dense concentrations, running together and
at times appearing continuous; holes extend through the veneer, but wood between
pockets appears firm. At any cross-section extending across the width of the affected
area, sufficient wood fiber shall be present to develop not less than 40% of the strength
of clear veneer. Brown cubicle and similar forms of decay which have caused the wood
to crumble are prohibited.

2.65 Wood failure (percent)

The area of wood fiber remaining at the bond line following completion of the specified
shear test. Determination is by means of visual examination and expressed as a percent
of the test area.

2.66 Working Face

A face and/or back of a plywood panel that has an overlay system that meets a defined
MDO or HDO grade (see section 5.6.7).

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3 REFERENCE PUBLICATIONS1
ASTM E661-03 (2015) Test Method for Performance of Wood and Wood-Based Floor and Roof
Sheathing Under Concentrated Static and Impact Loads.
ASTM D2555-17 Test Methods for Establishing Clear Wood Strength Values.
ASTM D2718-18 Test Method for Structural Panels in Planar Shear (Rolling Shear).
ASTM D2719-13 Test Methods for Structural Panels in Shear Through-the-Thickness.
ASTM D2915-17 Standard Practice for Evaluating Allowable Properties for Grades of
Structural Lumber.
ASTM D3043-17 Methods of Testing Structural Panels in Flexure.
ASTM D5266-13 Standard Practice for Estimating the Percentage of Wood Failure in Adhesive
Bonded Joints.
ASTM D906-98 (2017) Standard Test Method for Strength Properties of Adhesives in Plywood
Type Construction in Shear by Tension Loading.
International Building Code® (IBC). International Code Council. Country Club Hills, IL.
International Residential Code® for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (IRC). International Code
Council. Country Club Hills, IL.
PS 2-18 Performance Standard for Wood Structural Panels.
ISO/IEC 17020 Conformity Assessment – Requirements for the Operation of Various Types of
Bodies Performing Inspection.
ISO/IEC 17025 General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration
Laboratories.
ISO/IEC 17065 Conformity Assessment – Requirements for bodies certifying products, processes
and services.

1. Copies of the ASTM publications are available from ASTM International, 100 Barr
Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, www.astm.org.

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4 PLYWOOD CLASSIFICATION
4.1 General
The plywood covered by this Standard is classified by bond classification and by grade.

4.2 Bond classification

The plywood covered by this Standard is classified as either Exposure 1 or Exterior.
Each classification is a function of veneer grade and adhesive performance. The bond
classification is related to the moisture resistance of the adhesive bond under intended
end-use conditions and does not relate to the physical (erosion, ultraviolet, etc.) or
biological (mold, fungal decay, insect, etc.) resistance of the panel.
4.2.1 Exposure 1 plywood
Adhesive performance requirements for Exposure 1 plywood are provided in Section 5.7.1.
4.2.2 Exterior plywood
Adhesive performance requirements for Exterior plywood are provided in Section 5.7.2.

4.3 Grade
Within each bond classification, there are a number of panel grades based on the grade of
the veneers and the panel construction. (See Table 2 for Exposure 1 grades and Table 3 for
Exterior grades.)

5 REQUIREMENTS
5.1 General
All plywood panels represented as conforming to this Standard shall meet or exceed all
applicable requirements set forth herein. Test methods are given in Section 6. All terms
shall be as defined in Section 2. Requirements for trademarking and certification shall
be as provided in Section 7.

5.2 Wood species

5.2.1 Species groups
For the purpose of this Standard, species shall be any softwood or hardwood species or
trade groups listed in Table 1 and other species meeting the requirements of Sections 5.2.3
or 5.2.4. For species grouping purposes, species listed in Table 1 but grown in a different
geographic region shall be evaluated in accordance with Appendix A. For inclusion in
Table 1, unlisted species shall be evaluated in accordance with Appendix A.

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5.2.1.1 Species segregation

Species which cannot be distinguished in veneer form from similar species shall be
classed as the largest numbered species group applicable (Group 4 is larger numbered
than Group 1) unless the manufacturer provides valid evidence to the qualified
inspection and testing agency that the species are properly segregated. Such segregation
shall be in the form of separation prior to peeling, mechanical testing for performance
capability or other means approved by the qualified inspection and testing agency.

TABLE 1
CLASSIFICATION OF SPECIESa
Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Group 5
North American Species – Applicable to trees grown in North America
Beech, American Cedar, Port Pine Alder, Red Aspen Basswood
Birch Orford Pond Birch, Paper Bigtooth Poplar, Balsam
Sweet Cypress Red Cedar, Alaska Quaking
Yellow Douglas-firb Virginia Fir, Subalpine Cedar
Douglas-fir b Fir Western White Hemlock, Incense
Larch, Western Balsam Spruce Eastern Western Red
Maple, Sugar California Red Black Maple, Bigleaf Cottonwood
Pine, Southern Grand Red Pine Eastern
Loblolly Noble Sitka Jack Black
Longleaf Pacific Silver Sweetgum Lodgepole (W. Poplar)
Shortleaf White Tamarack Ponderosa Pine
Slash Hemlock, Yellow Poplar Spruce Eastern
Tanoak Western Redwood White
Maple, Black Spruce Sugar
Engelmann
White
Non North American Species
Apitongc,d Lauan Mengkulangc Cativo
Kapurc Almon Meranti, Redc,e
Keruingc,d Bagtikan Mersawac
Pine Mayapis
Caribbean Red Lauan
Ocote Tangile
White Lauan
a. Table 1 species classified in accordance with ASTM D 2555 as discussed in Appendix A. The species group-
ings are only valid for species grown in the regions referenced in Appendix A. (See Section 5.2.1.)
b. Douglas-fir from trees grown in the states of Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and
the Canadian Provinces of Alberta and British Columbia shall be classed as Group 1 Douglas-fir. Douglas-
fir from trees grown in the states of Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico shall be classed as
Group 2 Douglas-fir.
c. Each of these names represents a trade group of woods consisting of a number of closely related species.
d. Species from the genus Dipterocarpus marketed collectively: Apitong if originating in the Philippines, Keruing if
originating in Malaysia or Indonesia.
e. Red Meranti shall be limited to species having a specific gravity of 0.41 or more based on green volume and
oven-dry weight.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.2.2 Species for faces and backs

Unless evaluated in accordance with Section 5.2.4, the species of face and back plies
shall be from any group listed in Table 1. When a face or back is made of more than
one piece, the entire ply shall be of the same species. When outer layers consist of two
or more plies, the outer or exposed plies are classified as faces (face plies) or backs
(back plies) and the unexposed plies (sub-faces and sub-backs) are classified as inner
plies, in terms of species requirements as provided in Section 5.2.3. Requirements for
identification of all panels are given in Section 7.3.
5.2.3 Species for inner plies
5.2.3.1 Inner ply species group
Unless otherwise permitted in Section 5.2.3.2 or 5.2.4, inner plies of Groups 1, 2, 3 or
4 panels shall be of any species listed in Groups 1, 2, 3 or 4 in Table 1. Inner plies of
Group 5 panels are permitted to be any species listed in Table 1.
5.2.3.2 Inner ply specific gravity
Inner plies of all panels shall also be permitted to be of any softwood species or any
hardwood species having a published average specific gravity value of 0.41 or more
based on green volume and oven-dry weight. The U.S. Forest Products Laboratory shall
be considered as final evaluator of published specific gravity data.
5.2.4 Species classified by testing
Species not listed in Table 1 or otherwise not covered by the provisions of Section 5.2
shall be qualified for use by panel performance testing in accordance with Section
5.8.6 for span-rated panels or with Section 5.8.7 for other panels except concrete form,
Marine and Structural I grades. For panel marking purposes, re-classification of Group
designation for species listed in Table 1 by panel performance testing in accordance with
Section 5.8.7 is permitted.

5.3 Synthetic repairs

5.3.1 Synthetic fillers
Use of synthetic fillers shall be limited to the repair of minor characteristics as specified.
Synthetic fillers shall be approved by the qualified testing and inspection agency.
5.3.2 Synthetic shims, patches and plugs
These repairs shall completely fill kerfs or voids; shall present a smooth, level surface; and
shall not crack, shrink or lose their bond. Performance of synthetic shims, patches and
plugs under normal conditions of service shall be comparable to that of wood repairs. The
equivalency shall be established by the qualified testing and inspection agency.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.4 Grade description of veneers

All veneers in the finished plywood panel shall conform to one of the grade
requirements listed in Sections 5.4.1 through 5.4.6. Unless otherwise stated, these
requirements apply to 1220 mm by 2440 mm (48 x 96 in.) panels and are proportionate
for other sizes. Grade N is the highest classification. For grading purposes, depressions
(see Section 2.18) shall be considered as rough grain.
5.4.1 Grade N veneer (intended for natural finish)
5.4.1.1 General
Grade N veneer shall be smoothly cut 100% heartwood or 100% sapwood, free from
knots, knotholes, pitch pockets, open splits, other open characteristics and stain. The
veneer shall consist of not more than two pieces in 1220 mm (48 in.) widths and not
more than three pieces in wider panels, and shall be well matched for color and grain.
When sanding is required (see Tables 2 and 3), panels shall be sanded and shall permit
no sander skips.
Synthetic fillers shall be permitted to fill:
a. Small cracks or checks not more than 0.8 mm (1/32 in.) wide.
b. Small splits or openings up to 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) wide if not exceeding 50.8 mm (2 in.)
in length.
c. Small chipped areas or openings not more than 3.2 mm wide by 6.4 mm long
(1/8 inch x 1/4 inch).
5.4.1.2 Growth characteristics
Where pitch streaks occur, each shall average not more than 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) in width
and shall blend with the color of the wood.
5.4.1.3 Repairs
Repairs shall be of wood, neatly made, and parallel to grain. They shall be limited to a
total of six in number and be well matched for color and grain.
Patches shall be limited to three “router” patches not exceeding 25.4 mm (1 in.) in width
and 88.9 mm (3-1/2 in.) in length. There shall be no overlapping.
Shims shall not exceed 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) in width or 305 mm (12 in.) in length and
shall occur only at the ends of the panel.
5.4.2 Grade A veneer (suitable for painting)
5.4.2.1 General
Grade A veneer shall be firm, smoothly cut and free of knots, pitch pockets, open splits,
and other open characteristics and well joined when of more than one piece. When
sanding is required (see Tables 2 and 3), panels shall be sanded and shall permit no
sander skips.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Synthetic fillers shall only be used to fill:

a. In Exterior panels: small cracks or checks not more than 0.8 mm (1/32 in.) wide; small
splits or openings up to 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) wide, if not exceeding 50.8 mm (2 in.) in
length; small chipped areas or openings not more than 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) wide by
6.4 mm (1/4 in.) long.
b. In Exposure 1 panels: small cracks or checks not more than 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) wide;
openings or depressions up to 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) wide by 50.8 mm (2 in.) long or
equivalent area.
5.4.2.2 Growth characteristics
Where pitch streaks occur, each shall average not more than 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) in width
and shall blend with the color of the wood. Sapwood and discolorations to any degree
shall be permitted.
5.4.2.3 Repairs
Repairs shall be of wood or synthetic patching material, neatly made, parallel to grain
and limited to a total of 18 in number, excluding shims.
5.4.2.4 Patches
Patches, when of wood, shall be “boat,” “compound boat,” “router” or “sled” type. The radius
of ends of boat patches and compound boat patches shall not exceed 9.5 mm (3/8 in.).
A single wood patch shall be no larger than 57.2 mm x 114 mm (2-1/4 in. x 4-1/2 in.).
Multiple wood repairs shall consist of not more than two patches, neither of which shall
exceed 178 mm (7 in.) in length if either is wider than 25.4 mm (1 in.), except that one
multiple repair consisting of three die-cut veneer patches shall be permitted.
For a multiple repair consisting of three patches across the width of the panel, the repaired
area shall not exceed a width and length of 152 mm x 114 mm (6 in. x 4-1/2 in.).
For a multiple repair consisting of three patches along the length of the panel, the repaired
area shall not exceed a width and length of 57.2 mm x 267 mm (2-1/4 in. x 10-1/2 in.).
Synthetic repairs are limited to the same repair areas as wood patches and shall be
counted as one, two or three patches depending on the area repaired.
The repair of a split having a width not greater than 31.8 mm (1-1/4 in.) and any length
shall be considered one patch.
Shims shall not be used over or around patches or as multiple repairs.
5.4.3 Grade B veneer
5.4.3.1 General
Grade B veneer shall be solid and free from open characteristics and broken grain, except
as permitted in Sections 5.4.3.1 through 5.4.3.4. Slightly rough grain shall be permitted.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Minor sanding and patching characteristics, including sander skips, shall not exceed 5%
of panel area. See Tables 2 and 3 for sanding requirements.
Synthetic fillers shall only be used to fill:
a. In Exterior panels: small splits or openings up to 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) wide if not
exceeding 50.8 mm (2 in.) in length; small chipped areas or openings not more than
3.2 mm wide by 6.4 mm long (1/8 in. x 1/4 in.).
b. In Exposure 1 panels: small cracks or checks not more than 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) wide;
openings or depressions up to 12.7 mm wide by 50.8 mm long (1/2 in. x 2 in.) or
equivalent area.
5.4.3.2 Growth characteristics
Knots shall not exceed 25.4 mm (1 in.) measured across the grain and shall be both
sound and tight.
Where pitch streaks occur, they shall average not more than 25.4 mm (1 in.) in width.
Discolorations to any degree shall be permitted.
5.4.3.3 Open characteristics
Splits shall not be wider than 0.8 mm (1/32 in.).
Vertical borer holes shall not exceed 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) in diameter and shall not exceed
an average of one per 929 cm2 (1 ft2) in number.
Horizontal or surface worm and borer holes shall be limited to 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) across,
25.4 mm (1 in.) in length, and to 12 in number.
5.4.3.4 Repairs
Repairs shall be of wood or synthetic patching material and neatly made.
Wood veneer repairs shall be die cut. Wood panel repairs shall be “router” or “sled” type.
Wood repairs shall not exceed 76.2 mm (3 in.) in width where occurring in multiple
repairs, or 102 mm (4 in.) in width where occurring singly.
Synthetic veneer repairs shall not exceed 102 mm (4 in.) in width.
Synthetic panel repairs shall not exceed 57.2 mm (2-1/4 in.) in width by any length,
except that repaired areas not exceeding 152 mm in width by 114 mm in length (6 in. x
4-1/2 in.) shall be allowed.
Shims shall be permitted without limit.
5.4.4 Grade C veneer
5.4.4.1 General
Sanding characteristics shall not impair the strength or serviceability of the panel. See
Tables 2 and 3 for sanding requirements.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.4.4.2 Growth characteristics

Knots shall be tight and not more than 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.) across the grain.
Discolorations to any degree shall be permitted.
5.4.4.3 Open characteristics
Any number of knotholes up to 25.4 mm (1 in.) shall be permitted. However, an
occasional knothole more than 25.4 mm (1 in.) but not more than 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.)
measured across the grain shall be permitted subject to the following provision:
a. Determine the Critical Section containing the knothole. (See Section 2.14.)
b. Determine the aggregate width of all knots and knotholes occurring wholly within
the Critical Section. Other open characteristics and growth characteristics are not
included in this aggregate.
c. The knothole is permitted if the aggregate width of all knots and knotholes in the
Critical Section does not exceed 152 mm (6 in.) in a 1220 mm (48 in.) wide panel and
proportionately for other panel widths.
Splits measured at a point 203 mm (8 in.) from the end of the panel shall not exceed
12.7 mm (1/2 in.) in width by 1/2 panel length or 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) in width by any
panel length, provided separation at one end does not exceed 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) where
split runs full panel length; however, the maximum width within 203 mm (8 in.) of the
end of the panel (open end of split) shall not exceed the maximum width of knotholes
permitted within the grade.
Splits on panel faces and backs shall not exceed 6.4 mm (1/4 in.) where located within
25.4 mm (1 in.) of parallel panel edge.
Voids due to missing wood on panel faces and backs not otherwise specified above shall
not exceed the maximum width of knotholes permitted in the grade and the length of
such voids shall not exceed 152 mm (6 in.).
Wane not exceeding 203 mm (8 in.) in length and the width permitted for open
characteristics shall be allowed, providing that where wane occurs at edges of veneer
sheets, panel ply separation due to wane shall not exceed the limit equivalent to that
permitted for short and narrow inner plies in Section 5.8.3 for sanded panels, or Section
5.8.4 for unsanded or touch-sanded panels.
5.4.4.4 Repairs
Repairs shall be wood or synthetic patching material, neatly made.
Wood veneer repairs shall be die cut. Wood panel repairs shall be “router” or “sled” type.
Wood repairs shall not exceed 76.2 mm (3 in.) in width where occurring in multiple
repairs, or 102 mm (4 in.) in width where occurring singly.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Synthetic veneer repairs shall not exceed 102 mm (4 in.) in width.

Synthetic panel repairs shall not exceed 57.2 mm (2-1/4 in.) in width.
Shims shall be permitted without limit.
5.4.5 Grade C plugged veneer
Knotholes, worm and borer holes and other open characteristics not larger than 6.4 mm
(1/4 in.) by 12.7 mm (1/2 in.); sound and tight knots up to 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.) measured
across the grain; splits up to 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) wide; broken grain; pitch pockets, if solid
and tight; plugs; patches and shims shall be permitted. Synthetic repairs in veneer shall
not exceed 102 mm (4 in.) in width. Synthetic panel repairs shall not exceed 57.2 mm
(2-1/4 in.) in width by any length, except that repaired areas not exceeding 152 mm (6 in.)
in width by 114 mm (4-1/2 in.) in length shall be allowed. See Tables 2 and 3 for sanding
requirements. Where grades having C Plugged face veneer are identified as fully sanded,
sanding characteristics shall be the same as admitted under B grade. Sander skips to any
degree shall be admissible in touch-sanded C Plugged veneer.
5.4.6 Grade D veneer
5.4.6.1 General
Except as otherwise required in Sections 5.4.6.2 through 5.4.6.4, any number of plugs,
patches, shims, worm or borer holes, sanding characteristics and other characteristics
shall be permitted, provided they do not seriously impair the strength or serviceability of
the panels.
5.4.6.2 Growth characteristics
Tight knots in inner plies shall be permitted.
In D grade faces or backs, any number of tight knots not larger than 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.)
across the grain shall be permitted. However, an occasional tight knot larger than
63.5 mm (2 1/2 in.) but not larger than 76.2 mm (3 in.) measured across the grain,
shall be permitted subject to the following provision:
a. Determine the Critical Section containing the knot. (See Section 2.14.)
b. Determine the aggregate width of all knots and knotholes occurring wholly within
the Critical Section. Other open characteristics and growth characteristics are not
included in this aggregate.
c. The knot is permitted if the aggregate width of all knots and knotholes in the Critical
Section does not exceed 254 mm (10 in.) in a 1220 mm (48 in.) wide panel and
proportionately for other panel widths.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.4.6.3 Open characteristics

Any number of knotholes up to 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) across the grain shall be permitted.
However, an occasional knothole larger than 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not larger than
76.2 mm (3 in.) measured across the grain shall be permitted subject to the following
provision:
a. Determine the Critical Section containing the knothole. (See Section 2.14.)
b. Determine the aggregate width of all knots and knotholes occurring wholly within
the Critical Section. Other open characteristics and growth characteristics are not
included in this aggregate.
c. The knothole is permitted if the aggregate width of all knots and knotholes in the
Critical Section does not exceed 254 mm (10 in.) in a 1220 mm (48 in.) wide panel
and proportionately for other panel widths.
Knotholes in sanded panels shall not exceed 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) across the grain in
veneer thicker than 3.2 mm (1/8 in.).
Knotholes shall not exceed 88.9 mm (3-1/2 in.) across the grain in veneers at least two
plies removed from the face or back plies of C-D, D-D and C-D Plugged grades having
five or more plies.
Splits measured at a point 203 mm (8 in.) from the end of the panel shall not exceed
25.4 mm (1 in.) in width, tapering to not more than 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) where split runs
full panel length; however, the maximum width within 203 mm (8 in.) of the end of the
panel (open end of split) shall not exceed the maximum width of knotholes permitted
within the grade.
Splits on panel faces and backs shall not exceed 6.4 mm (1/4 in.) in width where located
within 25.4 mm (1 in.) of parallel panel edge.
Voids due to missing wood on panel backs not otherwise specified in Section 5.4.6.3
shall not exceed the maximum width of knotholes permitted in the grade and the length
of such voids shall not exceed 152 mm (6 in.).
Wane not exceeding 203 mm (8 in.) in length and the width permitted for open
characteristics is allowed, providing that where occurring at edges of veneer sheets,
panel ply separation due to wane shall not exceed the limit equivalent to that permitted
for short and narrow inner plies in Section 5.8.3 for sanded panels, or Section 5.8.4 for
unsanded or touch-sanded panels.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.4.6.4 White pocket

Any area 610 mm (24 in.) wide across the grain and 305 mm (12 in.) long, in which
light or heavy white pocket occurs, shall contain not more than three of the following
characteristics, in any combination:
a. A 152 mm (6 in.) width of heavy white pocket.
b. A 305 mm (12 in.) width of light white pocket.
c. One knot or knothole, 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.) to 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.), or two knots or
knotholes, 25.4 mm (1 in.) to 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.). Knots or knotholes less than
25.4 mm (1 in.) shall not be considered. Sizes of any knot or knothole shall be
measured across the grain. Any repair in a white pocket area shall be considered
for grading purposes as a knothole.

5.5 Veneers and layers

5.5.1 Veneer thickness
Except as provided for in the following paragraphs, veneer shall be 2.5 mm (1/10 in.) or
thicker in panels with Performance Category of 3/8 rough (unsanded) thickness or over;
2.1 mm (1/12 in.) or thicker in panels with Performance Category of less than 3/8 rough
(unsanded) thickness. In no case shall veneers used in face or back layers be thicker than
6.4 mm (1/4 in.), or veneers used in inner layers be thicker than 7.9 mm (5/16 in.).
Veneer of 2.1 mm (1/12 in.) shall be permitted as crossbands in 5-ply, 5-layer panels
with Performance Category of 15/32 and 1/2 and in parallel-laminated layers as
provided for in 5.5.2.
Veneer of 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) shall be permitted for any ply in 5-ply Exterior type panels
with Performance Categories of less than 15/32; as the center only in other 5-ply panels;
and in a parallel laminated layer as provided for in Section 5.5.2.
Face and back veneers shall be a minimum thickness of 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) for panels with
Performance Category of 19/32, 5/8, 3, 4, and 5-ply, 3-layer panels of C-D, C-D Plugged,
C-C, C-C Plugged and Underlayment grades.
Further limitations on panel layup are provided in Section 5.8, Panel Constructions and
Workmanship.
The average veneer thickness shall conform to the limitations given in this Standard within
a tolerance of ±5% of the specified nominal thickness measured dry before layup.
In lieu of veneer thickness requirements above, panels qualifying under workmanship
provisions of Section 5.8 and performance testing in accordance with Sections 5.8.6 or
5.8.7 shall be permitted.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.5.2 Parallel-laminated layers

Parallel-laminated outer layers shall only be used in C-C, C-D, D-D and Structural I
C-C and C-D grades. Such layers shall consist of veneers 2.5 mm (1/10 in.) or thicker
in any combination not exceeding 6.4 mm (1/4 in.) total layer thickness. The face and
back plies or exposed plies of outer layers shall conform to the species group and grade
requirements for faces and backs, respectively, of the panel grade. The unexposed plies
of outer layers, or sub-face and sub-back plies, shall conform to the species group and
grade requirements for inner plies of the panel grade as specified in Tables 2 and 3 and
Section 5.6.5. The maximum split or gap in sub-faces and sub-backs shall be 6.4 mm
(1/4 in.) under the faces of Structural I C-C and C-D panels; 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) under the
faces of C-C, C-D and D-D grades and 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) under D backs.
Parallel-laminated inner layers in any grade shall consist of veneers 1.6 mm (1/16 in.)
or thicker in any thickness combination not exceeding 11.1 mm (7/16 in.) total layer
thickness. Individual plies in such layers shall conform to the species group and grade
requirements for inner plies of the panel grade.
In lieu of veneer thickness requirements above, panels qualifying under workmanship
provisions of Section 5.8 and performance testing in accordance with Section 5.8.6 or
Section 5.8.7 shall be permitted.

TABLE 2
EXPOSURE 1 PLYWOOD GRADES (PERMITS D GRADE VENEER)
Minimum Veneer Quality
Panel Grade Designations Face Back Inner Plies Surface
N-N N N C Sanded 2 sides
N-A N A C Sanded 2 sides
N-B N B C Sanded 2 sides
N-D N D D Sanded 2 sides
A-A A A D Sanded 2 sides
A-B A B D Sanded 2 sides
A-D A D D Sanded 2 sides
B-B B B D Sanded 2 sides
B-D B D D Sanded 2 sides
Underlaymenta C Plugged D C&D Touch-sanded
C-D Plugged C Plugged D D Touch-sanded
Structural I C-D See 5.6.5 Unsandedb
Structural I C-D Plugged,
See 5.6.5 Touch-sanded
Underlayment
C-D C D D Unsandedb
D-Dc D D D Unsandedb
a. See Section 5.6.3 and Table 5 for special limitations.
b. See Section 5.8.4 for requirements.
c. Applicable only to panels qualified through performance testing per Section 5.8.6 (plus Section 6.2.2.3 of
PS 2-18) or PS 2-18.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 3
EXTERIOR PLYWOOD GRADESa (DOES NOT PERMIT D GRADE VENEER)
Minimum Veneer Quality
Panel Grade Designations Face Back Inner Plies Surface
See regular
Marine (A-A, A-B, B-B, HDO, MDO) See 5.6.1
grades
Special Exterior See regular
See 5.6.6
(A-A, A-B, B-B, HDO, MDO) grades
A-A A A C Sanded 2 sides
A-B A B C Sanded 2 sides
A-C A C C Sanded 2 sides
B-B (concrete form) B B C See 5.6.4
B-C (concrete form) B C C See 5.6.4
B-B B B C Sanded 2 sides
B-C B C C Sanded 2 sides
C-C Pluggedb C Plugged C C Touch-sanded
C-C C C C Unsandedc
HDO-Industrial A-A, B-B, B-C Cd
HDO-Concrete Forme A-A, B-B, B-C C
MDO-General B-B, B-C C
MDO-Concrete Forme B-B, B-C C
Special Overlays C C C —

a. Available also in Structural I classification as provided in Section 5.6.5.

b. See Section 5.6.3 and Table 5 for special limitations.
c. See Section 5.8.4 for requirements.
d. C Plugged for HDO-Industrial when intended for sign applications
e. For more clarification on concrete form grades, see Section 5.6.4.

5.5.3 Scarfed veneers

Scarfed veneers shall be permitted for any face, back, or inner ply except as provided in
Section 5.9. Scarfed joints shall not have a slope steeper than 1 to 8. Veneer in the scarf
area shall not contain characteristics which reduce its effective cross-section by more
than 20%. Veneer scarfed joints shall be bonded with a moisture-resistant adhesive.

5.6 Panel grades

The standard combination of the veneers described in Section 5.4 assembled into
the various panel grades shall be as provided in Tables 2 and 3, with the additional
requirements provided in Sections 5.6.1 through 5.6.7. The grain direction of the outer
layers shall be either parallel or perpendicular to the long dimension of the panel.
5.6.1 Marine
Marine grades shall meet the requirements of Exterior plywood and shall be of one of
the following grades: A-A, A-B, B-B, High Density Overlay or Medium Density Overlay,
all as modified in Sections 5.6.1.1 through 5.6.1.3.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.6.1.1 Species
Only Group 1 Douglas-fir and Western Larch veneers shall be used.
5.6.1.2 Veneers
Grade A faces shall be limited to a total of nine single wood repairs in a 1220 mm by 2440
mm (48 x 96 in.) sheet, or to a proportionate number in any other size as manufactured.
All inner plies shall be B grade or better and shall be full length and width.
All wood repairs shall be bonded with an adhesive meeting the Exterior performance
requirements of Section 5.7.2 and, in addition, shall be set in the panel using a technique
involving both heat and pressure.
When the inner plies consist of two or more pieces of veneer, the edges shall be straight
and square and shall not overlap.
5.6.1.3 Crossband gaps and edge splits
Neither edge of a panel shall have any crossband gap or edge split in excess of 3.2 mm
(1/8 in.) wide. Crossband gaps and edge splits per 2440 mm (96 in.) of crossband ply
shall not exceed four in number. End splits and gaps on either end of a panel shall not
exceed 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) in aggregate width.
There shall be no filling of crossband gaps and edge splits.
5.6.2 Decorative panels
Specialty panels with decorative face and veneer treatments which, except for the special
face treatment, meet all of the requirements of this Standard, including veneer qualities,
adhesive bond performance and workmanship, shall be considered as conforming to
this Standard. All grades in Tables 2 and 3 shall be permitted to be manufactured as
decorative grades.
An occasional butt joint used for decorative effect in veneer shall have a maximum width
of 152 mm (6 in.) and shall be limited to one panel face. Where butt joints occur, the
aggregate width of all knots and knotholes and two-thirds the aggregate width of all
repairs, including butt joints, shall not exceed 152 mm (6 in.) in any area 305 mm (12 in.)
along the grain by 1220 mm (48 in.) wide or proportionately for other widths.
5.6.3 Underlayment
Underlayment is plywood produced with touch-sanded faces to the following
requirements.
5.6.3.1 Exposure 1 Underlayment.
Face veneer shall be C-plugged grade 2.5 mm (1/10 in.) or thicker before sanding. The
veneer immediately adjacent to the face ply shall be C grade or better with no open
characteristics over 25.4 mm (1 in.) across the grain; except that veneer immediately
adjacent to the face ply shall be permitted to be D grade with open characteristics up to
63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) across the grain provided the face veneer is of Group 1 or 2 species of
4.2 mm (1/6 in.) minimum thickness before sanding. Also see Table 5 requirements.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.6.3.2 Exterior Underlayment (C-C plugged or better).

Face veneer shall be C-plugged grade or better 2.5 mm (1/10 in.) or thicker before
sanding. The veneer immediately adjacent to the face ply shall be C grade or better
with no open characteristics over 25.4 mm (1 in.) across the grain except that veneer
immediately adjacent to the face ply shall be permitted to be C grade with open
characteristics up to 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.) across the grain, provided the face veneer is of
Group 1 or 2 species of 4.2 mm (1/6 in.) minimum thickness before sanding. Also see
Table 5 requirements.
5.6.4 Concrete form panels
Face veneers shall not be less than B grade and back veneers shall not be less than
C grade. The face and back veneers shall be of the same species group. The face and
back veneers shall be designated in the trademark. Inner plies shall be not less than
“C” grade. This grade of plywood is produced in two classes, and panels of each class
shall be identified accordingly. Non-overlaid panels shall be sanded two sides and have
a mill-applied release agent unless otherwise agreed upon between buyer and seller.
For non-overlaid panels, Western Larch shall be excluded from use in the face plies of
concrete form plywood due to the excessive wood sugars that prohibit proper curing of
concrete. Species shall be further limited as follows and are applicable also to High Density
Overlaid Exterior and Medium Density Overlaid Exterior concrete form panels:
a. Class I — Faces of Group 1 species, crossband of Group 1 or Group 2 species, and
centers of Group 1, 2, 3 or 4 species.
b. Class II — Faces of Group 1 or Group 2 species, and crossband and centers of
Group 1, 2, 3 or 4 species; or faces of Group 3 species of 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) minimum
thickness before sanding, crossband of Group 1, 2 or 3 species and centers of Group
1, 2, 3 or 4 species.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.6.5 Structural I panels

These panels are especially designed for engineered applications such as structural
components where design properties, including tension, compression, shear, cross-panel
flexural properties and nail bearing are of significant importance. Structural I shall
be produced as C-D, C-D Plugged, Underlayment or any Exterior grade (see Table 3).
Structural I panels shall meet all other requirements in this Standard for the applicable
types and grades and the additional requirements below:
a. All face, back and inner plies shall be Group 1 species as listed in Table 1.
b. Special limitations applying to Structural I (C-D, C-D Plugged, Underlayment) grade
panels are:
ƒ In
D grade veneers, white pocket in any area larger than the size of the largest
knothole, pitch pocket or split specifically permitted in D grade shall not be
permitted in any ply.
ƒ Sound tight knots in D grade shall not exceed 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) measured across
the grain, except as provided in Table 5.
ƒ Plugs, including multiple repairs, shall not exceed 102 mm (4 in.) in width.
5.6.6 Special Exterior
An Exterior panel that is produced from any species covered by this Standard. Except in
regard to species, it shall meet all of the requirements for Marine panels (see Section 5.6.1)
and be produced in one of the following grades: A-A, A-B, B-B, High Density Overlay, or
Medium Density Overlay.
5.6.7 Overlays
For overlaid plywood, the grade designation for face and back, as given in Table 3, refers
to the veneer directly beneath the overlay. All overlaid plywood shall be overlaid on two
sides unless identified as having one working face as specified in Section 7.3.c. When
only one side is overlaid (or when a backer sheet is applied), the back shall be C or better.
The surface of overlaid plywood shall be smooth, or uniformly textured, although some
evidence of underlying grain shall be permitted.
5.6.7.1 High Density Overlay – Concrete Form
HDO Concrete Form plywood shall be manufactured with thermosetting phenolic resin
impregnated cellulose-fiber sheet or sheets bonded to the working face. The overlay layer
shall consist of a sheet or sheets, containing not less than 52% phenolic resin content,
based on the volatile-free weight of fiber and resin. The thickness of resin-impregnated
materials for each working face shall be not less than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) thick before
pressing and shall weigh not less than 290 g per m2 (60 pounds per 1000 ft2) in the
ready-to-use condition. When the overlay layer is composed of MDO cushion sheet and
HDO cap sheet (or sheets), the MDO sheet shall be not less than 34% phenolic resin
content based on the volatile-free weight of resin and fiber, exclusive of bond line.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.6.7.2 High Density Overlay – Industrial

HDO Industrial plywood is typically used for highway signs or industrial applications.
HDO Industrial plywood shall be manufactured with thermosetting phenolic resin
impregnated cellulose-fiber sheet or sheets bonded to the working face. The overlay layer
shall consist of a sheet or sheets, containing not less than 45% phenolic resin content based
on the volatile-free weight of fiber and resin. The thickness of resin-impregnated materials
for each working face shall be not less than 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) thick before pressing
and shall weigh not less than 290 g per m2 (60 pounds per 1000 ft2) in the ready-to-use
condition. When the overlay layer is composed of MDO cushion sheet and HDO cap sheet
(or sheets), the MDO sheet shall be not less than 34% resin content based on the volatile-
free weight of resin and fiber, exclusive of bond line.
5.6.7.3 Medium Density Overlay – Concrete Form
MDO Concrete Form plywood shall be manufactured with thermosetting phenolic resin
impregnated cellulose-fiber sheet or sheets bonded to the working face. The overlay layer
shall consist of a sheet or sheets, containing not less than 34% phenolic resin content
based on the volatile-free weight of fiber and resin, but exclusive of bond line. The
thickness of resin-impregnated materials for each working face shall be not less than
0.30 mm (0.012 in.) thick after pressing and shall weigh not less than 280 g per m2
(58 pounds per 1000 ft2) including both resin and fiber, but exclusive of bond line.
Unless otherwise agreed upon between buyer and seller, MDO Concrete Form plywood
shall be treated with a release agent.
5.6.7.4 Medium Density Overlay – General
MDO General plywood shall be manufactured with thermosetting phenolic resin
impregnated cellulose-fiber sheet or sheets bonded to the working face. The overlay layer
shall consist of a sheet or sheets, containing not less than 27% phenolic resin content
based on the volatile-free weight of fiber and resin, but exclusive of bond line. The
thickness of resin-impregnated materials for each working face shall be not less than
0.30 mm (0.012 in.) thick after pressing and shall weigh not less than 280 g per m2
(58 pounds per 1000 ft2) including both resin and fiber, but exclusive of bond line.
The resin-treated facing on the finished product shall be suitable for painting.
5.6.7.5 Special overlays
These are surfacing materials having resin systems, resin-treated fiber materials or special
characteristics that do not fit the particular description of High Density or Medium Density
overlays as given in Sections 5.6.7.1, 5.6.7.2, 5.6.7.3 or 5.6.7.4. Special Overlays shall meet
the adhesive bond requirements for overlaid plywood. (See Section 5.7.2.2.) Although
designed for a wide variety of uses, this overlaid plywood shall be Exterior, including the
base panel, bond of overlay to the panel, and the overlay itself. Panels shall be identified as
“Special Overlay.”

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.7 Adhesive bond requirements for a panel or a lot

The adhesive bond shall meet the requirements below.
5.7.1 Exposure 1
A panel shall be considered as meeting Exposure 1 adhesive bond requirements of this
Standard if the test specimens taken from a panel average 80% wood failure or greater
when tested in accordance with Section 6.1.3. For qualification purposes, specimens
from at least 20 panels shall be sampled.
Lots represented by test panels shall be considered as meeting the requirements of this
Standard if the requirements of (a) and (b) are met:
a. The average wood failure of all test specimens, regardless of the number of panels
tested, shall be not less than 80%,
b. And:
1. When at least 10 panels are tested, at least 90% of the panels represented by the
test pieces shall have 60% wood failure or better,
2. When at least 20 panels are tested, at least 95% of the panels represented by the
test pieces shall have 30% wood failure or better, and
3. When fewer than 10 panels are tested, all panels represented by the test pieces
shall have 60% wood failure or better.
The requirements of Section 5.7.1 are applicable separately and independently to the
results obtained from the vacuum-pressure test (Section 6.1.3.2) and the boiling test
(Section 6.1.3.3). Specimens cut through localized characteristics permitted in the grade
shall be discarded. Test specimens showing delamination in excess of 3.2 mm (1/8 in.)
deep and 25.4 mm (1 in.) long shall be rated as zero (0)% wood failure.
5.7.1.1 Heat performance
Panels shall meet the heat performance requirements for Exterior adhesives. (See
Section 5.7.2.1.)
5.7.2 Exterior
When tested in accordance with Section 6.1.3, Exterior plywood shall be considered as
meeting the adhesive bond requirements of this Standard if the test specimens taken
from a panel average 85% wood failure or greater. For qualification purposes, specimens
from at least 20 panels shall be sampled.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Lots represented by test panels shall be considered as meeting the requirements of this
Standard if the minimum requirements of (a) and (b) are met:
a. The average wood failure of all test specimens, regardless of the number of panels
tested, shall be not less than 85%,
b. And:
1. When at least four panels are tested, at least 75% of the panels represented by
the test pieces shall have 80% wood failure or better,
2. When at least 10 panels are tested, at least 90% of the panels represented by the
test pieces shall have 60% wood failure or better,
3. When at least 20 panels are tested, at least 95% of the panels represented by the
test pieces shall have 30% wood failure or better, and
4. When fewer than four panels are tested, all panels represented by the test pieces
shall have 80% wood failure or better.
The requirements of Section 5.7.2 are applicable separately and independently to the
results obtained from the vacuum-pressure test (Section 6.1.3.2) and the boiling test
(Section 6.1.3.3). Specimens cut through localized characteristics permitted in the grade
shall be discarded. Test specimens showing delamination in excess of 3.2 mm (1/8 in.)
deep and 25.4 mm (1 in.) long shall be rated as zero (0)% wood failure.
5.7.2.1 Heat performance
Exterior plywood shall be considered as meeting the requirements of this section if there
is no delamination in any specimen, except when occurring at a localized characteristic
permitted in the grade when tested in accordance with Section 6.1.3.4. When testing
overlaid plywood, blisters or bubbles in the surface caused by combustion shall not be
considered as delamination.
5.7.2.2 Overlaid plywood
The bond between veneers of overlaid plywood as well as the bond between the overlay
and the base panel shall meet the wood failure requirements described in Section 5.7.2
for Exterior plywood. In evaluating specimens for separation of the resin-treated face
from the plywood, fiber failure shall be considered the same as wood failure.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.8 Panel constructions and workmanship

Constructions for all panels shall conform to the minimum number of plies and layers
as set forth in Table 4. The proportion of wood with grain perpendicular to panel face
grain shall be not less than 33% nor more than 70% of the total panel thickness. The
combined thickness of inner layers in panels having 4 or more plies shall be not less
than 45% of the total panel thickness. For application of these requirements, the panel
thickness shall be the actual finished panel thickness and the veneer thickness shall be
the dry veneer thickness before layup.
The grain of all layers shall be perpendicular to the grain of adjacent layers and to the
ends or edges of the panel. The entire area of each contacting surface of the adjacent
plies, including repairs, shall be bonded with an adhesive in a manner to assure
compliance with the performance requirements for its type as set forth in the test
described in Section 6.
For the purpose of veneer repairing or edge joining, strings, ribbons or tapes up to
9.5 mm (3/8 in.) maximum width can occur in a bond line and shall be considered as
allowable localized characteristics in the evaluation of bond line test specimens. Wider
strings, ribbons or tapes shall not be used for veneer repairing or joining unless they are
pre-qualified to show bonding equal to the required bonding for the panel. Bond line
test specimens cut to include the strings, ribbons or tapes wider than 9.5 mm (3/8 in.)
shall not be discarded because of the presence of these materials.
Veneer strips shall not be joined by string stitching.
Rough or unsanded plywood shall be permitted to have paper tape on either face or back, or
both; except that, in C-C Exterior, no tape used for veneer splicing shall be permitted.
Shims or strips of veneer shall not be used to repair panel edge voids. However, filling
of permissible edge voids with synthetic fillers neatly applied shall be allowed, except
as prohibited in Marine grades. (See Section 5.6.1.) Staples or pins of metal or synthetic
material shall be prohibited.
Where face or back plies consist of more than one piece of edge joined veneer, gaps
between adjacent pieces shall be graded as splits.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

End butt joints shall only be used under the following conditions:
a. Decorative grades as provided in Section 5.6.2.
b. Butt joints having a total aggregate width not exceeding the width of the panel shall
occur in the center ply of 5-ply, 5-layer panels. The butt joints shall be perpendicular
to the grain of the panel face and back plies. The use of butt-jointed centers shall
be allowed in Exposure 1 sanded grades in panels with Performance Category up
to and including 1/2, and in D-D, C-D and C-D Plugged panels with Performance
Category up to and including 3/4. End butt joints shall not be used in Structural I
panels. Panels with butt joints in center plies shall be marked “butt-jointed center” as
specified in Section 7.3.
Plywood shall be free from blisters, laps and other characteristics, except as expressly
permitted in Section 5.8 and its subsections. Panels shall have no continuous holes or
through openings from face to back.
5.8.1 Crossband gaps and center gaps
Crossband gaps or center gaps, except as noted for plugged crossband and jointed
crossband, shall not exceed 25.4 mm (1 in.) in width for a depth of 203 mm (8 in.)
measured from panel edge. The average of all gaps occurring in a panel shall not exceed
12.7 mm (1/2 in.). Where inner layers are thicker than 6.4 mm (1/4 in.), gaps in the
laminated plies shall be offset 25.4 mm (1 in.) if over 6.4 mm (1/4 in.) wide.
Where plugged inner plies are specified, inner plies shall be of C Plugged veneer, and
gaps between adjacent pieces of inner plies shall not exceed 12.7 mm (1/2 in.).
Where jointed inner plies are specified, gaps between pieces of inner plies shall not
exceed 9.5 mm (3/8 in.), and the average of all gaps occurring in a panel shall not exceed
4.8 mm (3/16 in.).

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 4
PANEL CONSTRUCTIONS (MINIMUM NUMBER OF PLIES AND LAYERS)
Finished Panel
Performance Category
Panel Grades Range Back Inner Plies
Exterior
Marine
Special Exterior (See 5.6.6 )
Through 3/8 3 3
B-B Concrete form
Over 3/8 through 3/4 5 5
B-C Concrete form
Over 3/4 7 7
HDO Industrial A-A, B-B, B-C
HDO Concrete Form A-A, B-B, B-C
MDO Concrete Form B-B, B-C
Exposure 1
N-N, N-A, N-B, N-D, A-A, A-B, A-D, B-B,
B-D
Structural I (C-D, C-D Plugged and
Through 3/8 3 3
Underlayment)
Over 3/8 through 1/2 4 3
Exterior
Over 1/2 through 7/8 5 5
A-A, A-B, A-C, B-B, B-C
Over 7/8 6 5
Structural I (C-C and C-C Plugged)
(See 5.6.5)
MDO General B-B, B-C
Special Overlays
Exposure 1
Through 1/2 3 3
Underlayment
Over 1/2 through 3/4 4 3
Exterior
Over 3/4 5 5
C-C Plugged
Exposure 1
C-D
Through 5/8 3 3
C-D Plugged
Over 5/8 through 3/4 4 3
D-D
Over 3/4 5 5
Exterior
C-C

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.8.2 Veneer requirements

The veneers used in each ply of each panel and the completed panel shall conform with the
applicable veneer grade and with the construction and workmanship requirements given
herein. Additionally, in recognition of the requirements of selected end uses, the type and
frequency of specific characteristics shall be further limited for grades in Table 5.

TABLE 5
CHARACTERISTICS PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED IN CERTAIN PANEL GRADES
Panel Grade Designation Description and Number of Characteristics Per Panel
N-N, N-A No crossband laps adjacent to faces and backs
No crossband laps adjacent to N faces
N-B No more than 2 crossband laps adjacent to B grade side (Section 5.8.3)
Laps are limited to 4.8 mm (3/16 in.)
No crossband laps adjacent to faces
No more than a total of 2 of any combination of the following:
N-D ƒ Knothole in D veneer over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
ƒ S plit in D veneer over 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) but not over 25.4 mm (1 in.)
ƒ Crossband lap adjacent to backs
No knotholes in veneer adjacent to face over 25.4 mm (1 in.) across the grain
where C grade is required per Tables 2 and 3
Underlayment and No knotholes in veneer adjacent to face over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) where D grade
C-C Plugged is permitted or over 38.1 mm (1 1/2 in.) where C grade is permitted per Section
5.6.3
No laps adjacent to face
No splits in faces over 6.4 mm (1/4 in.)
No splits in backs over 12.7 mm (1/2 in.)
No more than a total of 2 of any combination of the following:
ƒ Knothole in C veneer over 25.4 mm (1 in.) but not over 38.1 mm (1-1/2 in.)
Structural I C-D ƒ Knot in D backs over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
ƒ Knothole in D veneer over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
ƒ Crossband lap adjacent to faces (See Section 5.8.4)
ƒ Crossband lap adjacent to backs (See Section 5.8.4)
No splits in backs over 12.7 mm (1/2 in.)
No more than a total of 2 of any combination of the following:
ƒ Knot in D backs over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
Structural I C-D Plugged ƒ Knothole in D veneer over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
ƒ Crossband lap adjacent to faces (See Section 5.8.4)
ƒ Crossband lap adjacent to backs (See Section 5.8.4)
No knotholes in core veneer next to face over 25.4 mm (1 in.)
No crossband laps adjacent to faces
No splits in backs over 12.7 mm (1/2 in.)
Structural I Underlayment No more than a total of 2 of any combination of the following:
ƒ Knot in D backs over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
ƒ Knothole in D veneer over 63.5 mm (2-1/2 in.) but not over 76.2 mm (3 in.)
ƒ Crossband lap adjacent to backs (See Sections 5.8.3, 5.8.4)

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.8.3 Sanded panels

Unless otherwise specified, sanded plywood shall be sanded on two sides. Sanding
characteristics for N, A, B and C Plugged faces shall be as given in Section 5.4. Exposed
N, A and B veneer surfaces of panels shall have the bark or tight surface out. Plies directly
under the surface of overlaid panels are not considered exposed veneers. Faces and backs
of panels shall be full width and full length; except that C grade and D grade backs shall
be permitted to be narrow on one edge or short on one end only, but by not more than
3.2 mm (1/8 in.) for half the panel length or width. Inner plies shall be full width and
length; except that panels other than Marine shall be permitted to have one edge or end
void not exceeding 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) in depth and 203 mm (8 in.) in length per panel.
Except as otherwise specified in Table 5 for specific panel grade designations, crossband
veneers not exceeding 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) in thickness shall be permitted to be lapped but
by not more than 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) when adjacent to faces, or 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) when
adjacent to backs, and provided such laps create no adjacent visible openings. Sanding
characteristics resulting from crossband laps shall not be permitted in panel faces.
5.8.4 Unsanded and touch-sanded panels
Grade C or D veneers shall be permitted to be lapped by not more than 12.7 mm (1/2 in.)
provided such laps shall create no adjacent visible opening. Additional limitations on laps
adjacent to panel faces and backs are included in Table 5. All plies of C-D and D-D panels
shall be full length and full width except that no more than half the length of one edge nor
half the width of one end shall be permitted to contain short or narrow plies, provided:
a. Such plies shall not be short or narrow by more than 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) except that
crossbands shall be permitted to be short by 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) and centers shall be
permitted to be narrow by 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) provided they taper to within 4.8 mm
(3/16 in.) or less of the panel edge in 203 mm (8 in.).
b. When short or narrow by more than 4.8 mm (3/16 in.), the aggregate area in the
plane of the plies of such edge characteristics shall not exceed 39 cm2 (6 in.2) in the
entire panel.
c. Such edge characteristics shall not occur in more than one ply at any panel cross
section.
In grades other than C-D and D-D, backs shall be permitted to be narrow on one edge
or short on one end only, but by not more than 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) for half the panel
length or width; inner plies shall be full width and length except that one edge or end
void not exceeding 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) in depth and 203 mm (8 in.) in length per panel,
shall be acceptable.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 6
SPAN RATINGS FOR SHEATHING AND SINGLE-FLOOR PANELS BASED ON PRESCRIPTIVE
SPECIFICATIONS (FOR SPECIAL PLY-LAYER AND SPECIES REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO
STRUCTURAL I PANELS, SEE SECTION 5.6.5 AND TABLE 4. FOR CROSSBAND AND TOTAL INNER PLY
THICKNESS PROPORTION REQUIREMENTS, SEE SECTION 5.8.)

Minimum Minimum Face & Back Veneer Thickness

Panel Number Before Pressing, for Species Groupb Inner Ply
Span Performance of Plies- Species
Ratinga Category Layers 1 2 3 4 Group
Sheathing Panels (C-D, C-C)
2.1 mm 2.1 mm 2.1 mm 2.1 mm
12/0 5/16 3-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/12 in.) (1/12 in.) (1/12 in.) (1/12 in.)
2.1 mm 2.1 mm 2.1 mm
5/16 3-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/12 in.) (1/12 in.) (1/12 in.)
16/0
2.1 mm 2.1 mm 2.1 mm 2.1 mm
11/32 3-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/12 in.) (1/12 in.) (1/12 in.) (1/12 in.)
2.1 mm
5/16 3-3 (c) (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/12 in.)
2.1 mm 2.1 mm 2.5 mm
20/0 e 11/32 3-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/12 in.) (1/12 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
3/8 3-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm
3/8 3-3 (c) (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm
24/0 13/32 3-3 (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
1/2 3-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 4.2 mm
1/2 3-3 (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/6 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 4.2 mm
32/16 17/32 3-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/6 in.)

5/8 3-3 (d) (d) (d) (d) 1, 2, 3 or 4

4.2 mm
5/8 3-3 (d) (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/6 in.)
2.5 mm 3.2 mm 4.2 mm
21/32 3-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/6 in.)
40/20 e
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 3.2 mm
3/4 4-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/8 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
25/32 4-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 4.2 mm
3/4 4-3 (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/6 in.)
2.5 mm 3.2 mm 4.2 mm
25/32 4-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/6 in.)
48/24
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
7/8 5-5 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 3.2 mm
29/32 5-5 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/8 in.)
Continued on next page

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 6 (Continued)
SPAN RATINGS FOR SHEATHING AND SINGLE-FLOOR PANELS BASED ON PRESCRIPTIVE
SPECIFICATIONS (FOR SPECIAL PLY-LAYER AND SPECIES REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO
STRUCTURAL I PANELS, SEE SECTION 5.6.5 AND TABLE 4. FOR CROSSBAND AND TOTAL INNER PLY
THICKNESS PROPORTION REQUIREMENTS, SEE SECTION 5.8.)

Minimum Minimum Face & Back Veneer Thickness

Panel Number Before Pressing, for Species Groupb Inner Ply
Span Performance of Plies- Species
Ratinga Category Layers 1 2 3 4 Group
Single-Floor Panels (UNDERLAYMENT, C-C Plugged)
2.5 mm
1/2 3-3 (c) (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.)
4.2 mm
16 o.c. 19/32 4-3 (d) (d) (d) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/6 in.)

5/8 4-3 (d) (d) (d) (d) 1, 2, 3 or 4

4.2 mm
19/32 4-3 (d) (c) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/6 in.)
3.2 mm 4.2 mm
5/8 4-3 (d) (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/8 in.) (1/6 in.)
20 o.c. e
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 3.2 mm
23/32 4-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/8 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
3/4 4-3 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.)
2.5 mm 4.2 mm 4.8 mm
23/32 4-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/6 in.) (3/16 in.)
2.5 mm 3.2 mm 4.2 mm
24 o.c. 3/4 4-3 (c) 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/6 in.)
2.5 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm 3.2 mm
7/8 5-5 1, 2, 3 or 4
(1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/10 in.) (1/8 in.)
3.2 mm 4.2 mm
1-1/8 7-5 (c) (c) 1 or 2
(1/8 in.) (1/6 in.)
3.6 mm 4.2 mm
1-1/8 7-5 (c) (c) 1, 2 or 3
(1/7 in.) (1/6 in.)
48 o.c.
2.5 mm 4.2 mm 4.8 mm
1-1/8 7-7 (c) 1
(1/10 in.) (1/6 in.) (3/16 in.)
3.2 mm 4.2 mm 4.8 mm
1-1/8 7-7 (c) 1, 2 or 3
(1/8 in.) (1/6 in.) (3/16 in.)
a. See Section 5.8.5 for description.
b. Intermixing between species groups and/or thicknesses in the faces and backs of panels is permitted. Use the
lowest applicable span rating to identify the panel. Also see Section 5.5.1.
c. Not permitted.
d. A minimum of 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) for 3, 4 and 5-ply 3-layer panels per Section 5.5.1. A minimum of 2.5 mm
(1/10 in.) for 5-ply, 5-layer panels.
e. The “20” span designation is intended for spans of 19.2 inch.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Panels manufactured as C-C, C-D, D-D, Structural I C-C and Structural I C-D shall
not be surface textured. Panels manufactured as C-C, C-D, D-D, Structural I C-C and
Structural I C-D that are sanded or touch-sanded shall meet all applicable requirements
for C-C, C-D or D-D and the finished face and back veneers after sanding shall each
have a minimum net thickness equal to 90% of the applicable thickness in Table 6 or in
the mill specification. (See Section 5.8.7.3.)
For touch-sanded panels, indents (see Section 2.26) shall be considered as an open
characteristic.
5.8.5 Span ratings for panels
Grade-trademarking of C-C, C-D, D-D, Structural I C-C, Structural I C-D, and of
C-C Plugged and Underlayment to be used as combination subfloor-underlayment
(single floor) shall include a “span rating.” The numbers are presented as a fraction in
the marking of sheathing grades of plywood and as a single number for C-C Plugged
and Underlayment. They describe the maximum spans in inches under normal use
conditions and are in accordance with commonly accepted criteria. Panels for which
there is no span rating shall be identified by largest species group number of the face and
back or by the span rating of the next thinner comparable panel.
For sheathing, the left-hand number shall refer to spacing of roof framing and the
right-hand number shall relate to spacing of the floor framing. The single number for
Underlayment and C-C Plugged refers to spacing of the floor framing in single floor
applications. Actual maximum spans are established by local building codes.
When used as single floor, panels shall also meet the grade requirements of Section 5.6.3.
The span rating number is related to species and thickness of the panel face and back
veneers, and panel Performance Category. It shall be established by either procedure (a)
or (b):
a. By specification as detailed in Table 6, or
b. By performance testing to satisfy the strength, stiffness and bond criteria as detailed
in Section 5.8.6. Such performance testing shall be performed by a qualified testing
agency, as described in Section 7.2.
5.8.6 Performance testing qualification requirements for span-rated panels
5.8.6.1 General
Acceptance of performance tested plywood under this Standard is based upon testing
of panel strength, stiffness and bond performance. Panels selected for testing shall be
of near minimum grade and near minimum thickness. Panel average thickness shall be
established in accordance with Section 5.10.2. All provisions of veneer grade and panel
workmanship are applicable.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.8.6.2 Performance testing

Panels qualified by performance testing shall satisfy the criteria called for in Section 5.8.6
when tested in accordance with Sections 5.8.6.3 and 5.8.6.4.
5.8.6.3 Structural performance
Concentrated loads
Test a maximum of 20 specimens taken from at least 10 panels. Ten specimens (taken
from at least five panels) for each test exposure condition shall be evaluated for both
concentrated static and impact loads according to Section 6.2.1. Requirements are
found in Table 7. If additional tests are needed, they shall also consist of 10 specimens,
and the results of the two 10-specimen sets shall be combined. Only one additional
test set is allowed. If the combined results meet or exceed the minimum passing rate,
the sample passes.
Deflection – The initial test set consists of 10 specimens.
The average deflection shall not be greater than the appropriate requirement in Table 7.
ƒ If no more than one value is above the requirement, the sample passes.
ƒ If two or three values are above the requirement, test an additional set.
ƒ If four or more values are above the requirement, the sample fails.
ƒ If
10 additional specimens are tested, the combined passing rate shall be at
least 85%.
Ultimate load – The initial test set consists of 10 specimens.
The average load shall not be less than the appropriate requirement in Table 7.
ƒ If all of the values meet or exceed the requirement, the sample passes.
ƒ If one of the values is below the requirement, test an additional set.
ƒ If two or more values are below the requirement, the sample fails.
ƒ If
10 additional specimens are tested, the combined passing rate shall be at
least 95%.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 7
CONCENTRATED STATIC AND IMPACT TEST PERFORMANCE CRITERIA FOR PANELS TESTED
ACCORDING TO SECTION 6.2.1 (SEE SECTION 5.8.6.3 FOR PASS/FAIL CRITERIA)
Performance Criteria
Ultimate Load
Test Static Following Impactb Deflection
End Use – Exposure
Span Rating Conditionsa kN lbf kN lbf mm in
Dry
Roof – 16 1.78 400 1.33 300 11.1c,d 0.438c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 20f 1.78 400 1.33 300 11.9c,d 0.469c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 24 1.78 400 1.33 300 12.7c,d 0.500c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 32 1.78 400 1.33 300 12.7c,d 0.500c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 40 1.78 400 1.33 300 12.7c,d 0.500c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 48 1.78 400 1.33 300 12.7c,d 0.500c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 54 1.78 400 1.33 300 12.7c,d 0.500c,d
Wet
Dry
Roof – 60 1.78 400 1.33 300 12.7c,d 0.500c,d
Wet
Dry
Subfloor – 16 1.78 400 1.78 400 4.8c 0.188c
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 20f 1.78 400 1.78 400 5.6c 0.219c
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 24 1.78 400 1.78 400 6.4c 0.250c
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 32 2.45 550 1.78 400 5.3c 0.207c
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 48 2.45 550 1.78 400 8.0c 0.313c
Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 2.45 550 1.78 400 2.0e 0.078e
- 16 Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 2.45 550 1.78 400 2.4e 0.094e
- 20f Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 2.45 550 1.78 400 2.7e 0.108e
- 24 Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 3.11 700 1.78 400 2.2e 0.088e
- 32 Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 3.11 700 1.78 400 3.4e 0.133e
- 48 Wet/Redry
a. Wet/redry shall be exposure to three days of continuous wetting, followed by testing dry. Wet conditioning shall
be exposure to three days of continuous wetting, then tested wet. Dry shall be within ±3% of the as-shipped
moisture content.
b. Impact shall be 102 N•m (75 lbf•ft) for span ratings up to 24, 122 N•m (90 lbf•ft) for 32, 163 N•m (120 lbf•ft)
for 40, and 203 N•m (150 lbf•ft) for 48 and greater.
c. Criteria apply under static concentrated load. They do not apply following impact.
d. Deflection after wet conditioning not applicable.
e. Criteria apply under static concentrated load and following impact.
f. The “20” span designation is intended for spans of 19.2 inch.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Uniform loads
Test a maximum of 20 specimens taken from at least 10 panels. Ten specimens (taken
from at least five panels) for each test exposure condition shall be evaluated for uniform
load capacity according to Section 6.2.2. Test requirements are found in Table 8. If
additional tests are needed, they shall also consist of 10 specimens, and the results of the
two 10-specimen sets shall be combined. Only one additional test set is allowed. If the
combined results meet or exceed the minimum passing rate, the sample passes.
Deflection – The average deflection shall not be greater than that specified. The initial
test consists of 10 specimens.
ƒ If the average value is below the requirement, the sample passes.
ƒ If the average value is above the requirement, test an additional set.
ƒ If
the average value based on combined results is above the requirement, the
sample fails.
Ultimate load – The initial test consists of 10 specimens. The average load shall not be
less than the appropriate requirement in Table 8.
ƒ If all of the values meet or exceed the requirement, the sample passes.
ƒ If one of the values is below the requirement, test an additional set.
ƒ If two or more values are below the requirement, the sample fails.
ƒ If 10 additional specimens are tested, the combined passing rate shall be at least 95%.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 8
UNIFORM LOAD PERFORMANCE CRITERIA FOR PANELS TESTED ACCORDING TO SECTION 6.2.2
(SEE SECTION 5.8.6.3 FOR PASS/FAIL CRITERIA)
Performance Criteriab
Test Ultimate
End Use – Exposure Uniform Load
Span Rating Conditionsa Average Deflection Under Load kPa lbf/ft2
Roof - 16 Dry 1.7 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.067 in. at 35 lbf/ft2)
7.2 150
Roof - 20 c
Dry 2.0 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.080 in. at 35 lbf/ft ) 2
7.2 150

Roof - 24 Dry 2.5 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.100 in. at 35 lbf/ft2) 7.2 150

Roof – 32 Dry 3.4 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.133 in. at 35 lbf/ft2) 7.2 150

Roof – 40 Dry 4.2 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.167 in. at 35 lbf/ft2) 7.2 150

Roof – 48 Dry 5.1 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.200 in. at 35 lbf/ft2) 7.2 150

Roof – 54 Dry 5.7 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.225 in. at 35 lbf/ft2) 7.2 150

Roof – 60 Dry 6.4 mm at 1.68 kPa (0.250 in. at 35 lbf/ft2) 7.2 150
Dry
Subfloor – 16 1.1 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.044 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 20c Wet/Redry 1.3 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.053 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
Dry
Subfloor – 24 1.7 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.067 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 32 2.2 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.088 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
Wet/Redry
Dry
Subfloor – 48 3.4 mm at 3.83 kPa (0.133 in. at 80 lbf/ft2) 10.8 225
Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 1.1 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.044 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
– 16 Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 1.3 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.053 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
– 20c Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 1.7 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.067 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
– 24 Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 2.2 mm at 4.79 kPa (0.088 in. at 100 lbf/ft2) 15.8 330
– 32 Wet/Redry
Single Floor Dry 3.4 mm at 3.83 kPa (0.133 in. at 80 lbf/ft2) 10.8 225
– 48 Wet/Redry
a. Wet/Redry shall be exposure to three days of continuous wetting, followed by testing dry. Dry shall be within 3%
of the as shipped moisture content.
b. The panel strength axis shall be across supports, unless otherwise specified.
c. The “20” span designation is intended for spans of 19.2 inch.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.8.6.4 Bond performance

Panels shall be classed as “Exposure 1” or “Exterior.”
Exposure 1 — Panels rated as “Exposure 1” shall be so identified and shall satisfy the
bond requirements as specified in Section 5.7.1.
Exterior — Panels rated as “Exterior” shall be so identified and shall satisfy the bond
requirements specified in Section 5.7.2.
5.8.6.5 Product evaluation
Mill specification — Upon conformance with the appropriate requirements of
Sections 5.8.6.3 and 5.8.6.4, a manufacturing specification unique to the product and
mill shall be written based on product evaluation. This specification shall be used
for quality assurance purposes by the manufacturer and the qualified testing agency,
according to Section 5.8.7.3. Product evaluation will be accomplished on the same
lot supplied by the manufacturer for qualification testing. Reference values shall be
established during product evaluation or from applicable performance requirements
in this Standard. The mill specification shall contain the following information:
Panel construction — Panels shall be defined as to veneer species and construction.
Thickness — The reference value shall be the average panel thickness less 1.932
standard deviations (the 95% lower tolerance limit at 75% confidence) for 20 panels as
sampled under Section 5.8.6.1.
Mechanical properties
Bending stiffness — Twenty tests (specimens taken from at least 10 panels) shall be
evaluated for bending stiffness both along and across the major panel axis according to
the procedures of Section 6.2.3. The reference value for each panel direction shall be the
lower value of a 90% confidence interval established on the mean.
Bending strength — Ten tests (specimens taken from 10 different panels) shall be tested
for maximum bending moment both along and across the major panel axis according
to the procedures of Section 6.2.3. The reference values for each panel direction will be
the minimum observed value, or the sample mean less 1.8 times the sample standard
deviation, whichever is the higher value.
5.8.7 Performance testing qualification requirements for other than
span-rated panels
5.8.7.1 General
Panels using species as provided in Section 5.2.4 shall be qualified for use under this
Standard based upon testing of panel strength and stiffness in accordance with Section
5.8.7.2. Results of testing shall establish a Group classification for use as required in
Section 7.3 (a). Group classification established by panel testing shall be determined by
the largest Group number obtained from all performance tests.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.8.7.2 Performance testing

Bending stiffness — A minimum of 20 tests (specimens taken from at least 10 panels)
shall be evaluated for bending stiffness both along and across the major panel axis
according to the procedures of Section 6.2.3. At least 90% of specimens tested along the
major axis shall meet the minimum stiffness value along the major axis given in Table 9
for the Performance Category tested.
Bending strength — A minimum of 10 tests (specimens taken from 10 different panels)
shall be tested for bending strength both along and across the major panel axis according
to the procedures of Section 6.2.3. At least 95% of the specimens tested along the major
axis direction shall meet the value given in Table 9 for the Performance Category tested.
Planar shear strength — A minimum of 10 tests (specimens taken from 10 different
panels) shall be tested for planar shear strength along the major panel axis according to the
procedures of Section 6.2.4. At least 95% of the tests shall meet the planar shear strength
value along the major axis given in Table 9 for the Performance Category tested.
Shear-through-the-thickness strength — A minimum of 10 tests (specimens taken from
10 different panels) shall be tested for shear strength through the thickness according to
the procedures of Section 6.2.5. At least 95% of tests shall meet the shear-through-the-
thickness strength value given in Table 9 for the Performance Category tested.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 9
SPECIES GROUP CLASSIFICATION TEST CRITERIA FOR OTHER THAN SPAN-RATED PANELS
Shear Through Stress Along (Parallel to Face)
Thickness Bending Bending Planar Shear
Strength Stiffness Strength Strength
Performance kN•m2/m kN•m/m
Category Group kN/m (lbf/in.) (lbf•in.2/ft) (lbf•in./ft) kN/m (lbf/ft)
1 21.0 (120) 0.15 ( 16 000) 0.087 ( 235) 3.7 ( 255)
2 15.8 ( 90) 0.12 ( 13 000) 0.063 ( 170) 3.7 ( 255)
1/4
3 15.8 ( 90) 0.10 ( 10 500) 0.063 ( 170) 3.7 ( 255)
4 14.5 ( 83) 0.08 ( 8 800) 0.057 ( 155) 3.7 ( 255)
1 22.8 (130) 0.35 ( 37 500) 0.137 ( 370) 5.1 ( 350)
2 16.6 ( 95) 0.30 ( 31 500) 0.100 ( 270) 5.1 ( 350)
11/32
3 16.6 ( 95) 0.24 ( 25 000) 0.100 ( 270) 5.1 ( 350)
4 15.6 ( 89) 0.20 ( 21 000) 0.093 ( 250) 5.1 ( 350)
1 22.8 (130) 0.50 ( 53 500) 0.183 ( 495) 5.8 ( 395)
2 17.0 ( 97) 0.42 ( 44 500) 0.133 ( 360) 5.8 ( 395)
3/8
3 17.0 ( 97) 0.33 ( 35 500) 0.133 ( 360) 5.8 ( 395)
4 15.8 ( 90) 0.28 ( 29 500) 0.124 ( 335) 5.8 ( 395)
1 33.3 (190) 1.22 (130 000) 0.313 ( 845) 7.7 ( 525)
2 24.5 (140) 1.04 (110 000) 0.228 ( 615) 7.7 ( 525)
15/32
3 24.5 (140) 0.82 ( 87 000) 0.228 ( 615) 7.7 ( 525)
4 22.8 (130) 0.68 ( 72 500) 0.211 ( 570) 7.7 ( 525)
1 34.1 (195) 1.41 (150 000) 0.347 ( 935) 8.3 ( 570)
2 25.4 (145) 1.18 (125 000) 0.252 ( 680) 8.3 ( 570)
1/2
3 25.4 (145) 0.94 (100 000) 0.252 ( 680) 8.3 ( 570)
4 23.6 (135) 0.80 ( 84 500) 0.234 ( 630) 8.3 ( 570)
1 43.8 (250) 2.17 (230 000) 0.463 (1250) 10.1 ( 695)
2 32.4 (185) 1.79 (190 000) 0.335 ( 905) 10.1 ( 695)
19/32
3 32.4 (185) 1.41 (150 000) 0.335 ( 905) 10.1 ( 695)
4 29.8 (170) 1.18 (125 000) 0.311 ( 840) 10.1 ( 695)
1 43.8 (250) 2.40 (255 000) 0.500 (1350) 10.8 ( 740)
2 32.4 (185) 2.02 (215 000) 0.361 ( 975) 10.8 ( 740)
5/8
3 32.4 (185) 1.60 (170 000) 0.361 ( 975) 10.8 ( 740)
4 29.8 (170) 1.32 (140 000) 0.335 ( 905) 10.8 ( 740)
Continued on next page

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 9 (Continued)
SPECIES GROUP CLASSIFICATION TEST CRITERIA FOR OTHER THAN SPAN-RATED PANELS

Shear Through Stress Along (Parallel to Face)

Thickness Bending Bending Planar Shear
Strength Stiffness Strength Strength
Performance kN•m2/m kN•m/m
Category Group kN/m (lbf/in) (lbf•in.2/ft) (lbf•in./ft) kN/m (lbf/ft)
1 44.7 (255) 3.34 (355 000) 0.575 (1550) 12.2 ( 835)
2 33.3 (190) 2.78 (295 000) 0.408 (1100) 12.2 ( 835)
23/32
3 33.3 (190) 2.21 (235 000) 0.408 (1100) 12.2 ( 835)
4 30.6 (175) 1.84 (195 000) 0.389 (1050) 12.2 ( 835)
1 45.5 (260) 3.67 (390 000) 0.612 (1650) 12.6 ( 860)
2 33.3 (190) 3.06 (325 000) 0.445 (1200) 12.6 ( 860)
3/4
3 33.3 (190) 2.45 (260 000) 0.445 (1200) 12.6 ( 860)
4 30.6 (175) 2.02 (215 000) 0.408 (1100) 12.6 ( 860)
1 46.4 (265) 5.18 (550 000) 0.760 (2050) 14.6 (1000)
2 34.1 (195) 4.33 (460 000) 0.556 (1500) 14.6 (1000)
7/8
3 34.1 (195) 3.44 (365 000) 0.556 (1500) 14.6 (1000)
4 32.4 (185) 2.87 (305 000) 0.500 (1350) 14.6 (1000)
1 65.7 (375) 7.91 (840 000) 0.982 (2650) 16.8 (1150)
2 48.2 (275) 6.59 (700 000) 0.704 (1900) 16.8 (1150)
1
3 48.2 (275) 5.27 (560 000) 0.704 (1900) 16.8 (1150)
4 44.7 (255) 4.38 (465 000) 0.649 (1750) 16.8 (1150)
1 66.5 (380) 10.36 (1 100 000) 1.205 (3250) 18.3 (1250)
2 49.0 (280) 8.52 (905 000) 0.871 (2350) 18.3 (1250)
1-1/8
3 49.0 (280) 6.83 (725 000) 0.871 (2350) 18.3 (1250)
4 45.5 (260) 5.70 (605 000) 0.816 (2200) 18.3 (1250)

5.8.7.3 Mill specification

Upon conformance with the requirements of Section 5.8.7.2, a manufacturing
specification unique to the product and mill shall be written. This specification shall be
used for quality assurance purposes by the manufacturer and the qualified testing agency
defined in Section 7.2. The manufacturing specification shall define veneer species and
panel construction and shall include the following reference values:
Thickness — The reference value shall be the average panel thickness less 1.932 standard
deviations (the 95% lower tolerance limit at 75% confidence) for 20 panels tested under
Section 5.8.7.2.
Mechanical Properties
Bending stiffness — The reference values for each panel direction shall be the lower
value of a 90% confidence interval (see ASTM D 2915) established on the mean for each
panel direction.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Bending strength — The reference values for each panel direction shall be the minimum
observed value, or the sample mean less 1.8 times the sample standard deviation,
whichever is the higher value for each panel direction.
Planar shear strength — The reference value shall be the minimum observed value, or the
sample mean less 1.8 times the sample standard deviation, whichever is the higher value.
Shear-through-the-thickness strength — The reference value shall be the minimum
observed value, or the sample mean less 1.8 times the sample standard deviation,
whichever is the higher value.
As an alternative to the mechanical properties, the performance tests of Section 5.8.7.2
may also be used for quality assurance purposes.

5.9 Scarf and finger-jointed panels

Neither panels with N faces, nor the faces of such panels, unless longer than 3 m (10 ft),
shall be scarf or finger-jointed unless otherwise agreed to by buyer and seller. Panels of
other grades shall be permitted to be scarf or finger-jointed unless otherwise agreed to by
buyer and seller, and panels longer than 3.7 m (12 ft) are necessarily scarf or finger-jointed.
Plain scarfed joints and the scarfed portion of finger-joints shall not have a slope greater
than 1 to 8. All plies with grain perpendicular to the finger-joint shall be included in the
scarfed portions of the joint, except that such plies shall be permitted to include up to 0.8
mm (1/32 in.) of vertical shoulder in the scarf (see Figure 1). Joints shall be bonded with
a moisture-resistant adhesive and shall meet the test requirements set forth in Sections
5.9.1, 5.9.2, and 5.9.3 as applicable. In addition, the adhesive shall not show creep or flow
characteristics greater than unjointed wood when subject to load under any conditions of
temperature and moisture.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

FIGURE 1
FINGER-JOINTS – LOCATION OF SCARFED PORTION OF JOINTS

End Finger-Joint
(Joint perpendicular-to-face grain)

End Finger-Joint
(Joint parallel-to-face grain)

Notes:
a. Arrows ( ) indicate vertical shoulder in scarfed plies with grain perpendicular to joint. Maximum vertical
shoulder in these plies is 0.8 mm (1/32 in.).
b. Arrows ( ) illustrate point with no shoulder in plies with grain perpendicular to joint.
c. The number of fingers and panel constructions shown are illustrative only.

5.9.1 Strength requirements for scarf and finger jointed panels

If the average ultimate stress of the three test specimens of any one panel is less than
27.6 MPa (4000 psi) for panels of Group 1 species, or less than 19.3 MPa (2800 psi) for
panels of Group 2 or Group 3 species, or less than 16.5 MPa (2400 psi) for panels of
Group 4 species, or less than 13.8 MPa (2000 psi) for panels of Group 5 species, when
tested in accordance with Section 6.1.5.1, then that panel shall fail. The jointed panels
represented by a sampling of 10 panels shall be acceptable if not more than one of the
panels fails and the average ultimate stress of the failing panel is at least 80% of that
specified for the applicable species group. If the average ultimate stress of the failing
panel is at least 75% of that specified for the applicable species group, another series of
10 panels shall be tested. If none of the panels in this series fails, the jointed panels shall
be accepted; otherwise they shall be rejected.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

5.9.2 Scarf joint bond performance for Exposure 1 and Exterior plywood
Panels shall be tested in accordance with Section 6.1.5.2. The material represented by the
sampling shall be evaluated in accordance with Sections 5.7.1, and 5.7.2, as applicable.
5.9.3 Finger-joint bond performance for Exposure 1 and Exterior plywood
Panels shall be tested in accordance with Section 6.1.5.3. The joints shall meet all of the
following minimum conditions:
a. The average wood failure rating of all specimens from each panel when tested in
accordance with Section 6.1.5.3 shall be not less than 85%.
b. No single specimen from a panel (average of face and back bond lines) shall rate less than
60% wood failure.
c. No single face or back bond line in any specimen shall rate less than 30% wood
failure.

5.10 Dimensional tolerances and squareness of panels

Panel measurements shall be based on a moisture content of 9%.
5.10.1 Size tolerances
A length and a width measurement shall be made at a location 50 to 75 mm (2 to 3 in.)
from the panel edge. A tolerance of plus zero (0) mm, minus 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) shall be
allowed on the manufacturer’s stated length and/or width.
ADVISORY NOTE: For tongue-and-groove and shiplapped panels, the width and
squareness measurements should be made on the net panel face.
5.10.2 Performance Category and thickness tolerances
Panel thickness shall be measured with a micrometer having 19.1 mm (3/4 in.) (minus 0,
plus 1.3 mm [0.050 in.]) diameter anvils. Measurements shall be taken at an applied anvil
pressure of not less than 34 kPa (5 psi) or more than 69 kPa (10 psi). The location of the
measurements shall be representative of panel thickness mid-length, ±50 mm (2 in.) along
each edge of the panel and the average of the four measurements shall be taken as the
thickness of that panel. If a measurement point contains a permissible grade characteristic
that affects panel thickness, then the measurement point shall be shifted from that point.
The panel thickness shall conform to Table 10.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE 10
PLYWOOD THICKNESS REQUIREMENTS
Thickness Requirements for Unsanded, Thickness Requirements for
Touch-Sanded and Overlaid Grades1 Sanded Grades2
Performance Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum
Category3 Thickness, mm (in.) Thickness, mm (in.) Thickness, mm (in.) Thickness, mm (in.)
1/4 5.56 (0.219) 7.14 (0.281) 5.95 (0.234) 6.75 (0.266)
11/32 7.94 (0.313) 9.53 (0.375) 8.33 (0.328) 9.13 (0.359)
3/8 8.73 (0.344) 10.32 (0.406) 9.13 (0.359) 9.92 (0.391)
7/16 10.32 (0.406) 11.91 (0.469) 10.72 (0.422) 11.51 (0.453)
15/32 11.11 (0.438) 12.70 (0.500) 11.51 (0.453) 12.30 (0.484)
1/2 11.91 (0.469) 13.49 (0.531) 12.30 (0.484) 13.10 (0.516)
9/16 13.49 (0.531) 15.08 (0.594) 13.89 (0.547) 14.68 (0.578)
19/32 14.29 (0.563) 15.88 (0.625) 14.68 (0.578) 15.48 (0.609)
5/8 15.08 (0.594) 16.67 (0.656) 15.48 (0.609) 16.27 (0.641)
23/32 17.46 (0.688) 19.05 (0.750) 17.86 (0.703) 18.65 (0.734)
3/4 18.26 (0.719) 19.84 (0.781) 18.65 (0.734) 19.45 (0.766)
13/16 19.84 (0.781) 21.43 (0.844) 20.02 (0.788) 21.26 (0.837)
7/8 21.11 (0.831) 23.34 (0.916) 21.56 (0.849) 22.89 (0.901)
1 24.13 (0.950) 26.67 (1.050) 24.64 (0.970) 26.16 (1.030)
1-1/8 27.15 (1.069) 30.00 (1.181) 27.72 (1.091) 29.43 (1.159)
1-1/4 30.16 (1.188) 33.34 (1.313) 30.80 (1.213) 32.70 (1.288)
1. Thickness requirements for unsanded, touch-sanded, and overlaid panels are based on a tolerance of ±0.8
mm (1/32 in.) for panels with Performance Categories of 13/16 and less and ±5% for panels with Performance
Categories greater than 13/16 unless a closer tolerance is determined through qualification testing.
2. Thickness requirements for sanded panels is based on a tolerance of ±0.4 mm (1/64 in.) for panels with
Performance Categories of 3/4 and less and ±3.0% for panels with Performance Categories greater than 3/4
unless a closer tolerance is determined through qualification testing.
3. For labeling purposes, abbreviation of “Performance Category” by PERF CAT, CAT or Category is permitted.
Performance Categories for other panel thicknesses are permitted.

5.10.3 Squareness and straightness

Panels shall be square within 1.3 mm per lineal meter of the longest edge (1/64 in. per
lineal foot) measured along the diagonals. All panels shall be manufactured so that a
straight line drawn from one corner to the adjacent corner is within 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) of
the panel edge.

5.11 Moisture content

Moisture content of panels at time of shipment shall not exceed 18% when tested in
accordance with Section 6.1.4.

5.12 Loading or packing

The plywood shall be securely loaded or packaged to ensure delivery to destination in a
clean and serviceable condition.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

6 SPECIMEN PREPARATION AND TESTING

6.1 Bond classification
6.1.1 General
The tests set forth in this section shall be used to determine the adhesive bond quality of
plywood produced under this Standard.
6.1.2 Specimen preparation (see Appendix B for sampling for reinspection)
Testing shall follow the principles of ASTM D906 and procedures herein. One test piece
shall be cut from each panel selected. Unless otherwise specified by the qualified testing
agency, 10 test specimens shall be cut as described in Section 6.1.3.1 for panels bonded
with moisture-resistant adhesive. Of the 10 specimens cut from each test piece for panels
bonded with moisture-resistant adhesive, five shall be for the vacuum-pressure test and
five shall be for the boil test. In addition, from each panel selected, a specimen 140 mm
by 203 mm (5-1/2 x 8 in.) shall be cut and tested as described in Section 6.1.3.4.
6.1.3 Tests for Exposure 1 and Exterior plywood
6.1.3.1 Preparation of test specimens
Test specimens taken as described in Section 6.1.2 shall be cut 82.6 mm long by
25.4 mm wide (3-1/4 in. x 1 in.) and kerfed one-third of the length of the specimen
from each end, as illustrated in Figure 2, to provide a 25.4 mm (1 in.) square test area
in the center. Specimens shall be oriented so that the grain direction of the ply under
test runs at a 90° angle to the length of the specimen. Kerfing shall extend two-thirds
of the way through the ply under test and shall not penetrate the next bond line. For
overlaid plywood, the additional 10 specimens for testing of bond between veneers
shall be cut as described in this section for Exterior specimens except that they shall
be cut 25.4 mm (1 in.) wide and 76.2 mm (3 in.) long and kerfed just through the
overlay 25.4 mm (1 in.) from the end on each overlay face.

FIGURE 2
SHEAR TEST SPECIMENS

82.6 mm (3-1/4 in.) 82.6 mm (3-1/4 in.)

25.4 mm
(1 in.)

25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm

(1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.)
3.2 mm 3.2 mm 3.2 mm 3.2 mm
(1/8 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/8 in.)

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

If the number of plies exceeds three, the cuts shall be made so as to test any two of
the joints, but the additional plies need not be stripped except as demanded by the
limitations of the width of the retaining jaws on the testing device. When required to
accommodate thicker plywood, special jaws shall be constructed. If the number of
plies exceeds three, the choice of joints to be tested shall be left to the discretion of the
qualified inspection and testing agency, but at least one-half of the tests shall include the
innermost joints.
6.1.3.2 Vacuum-pressure test
The test specimen shall be placed in a pressure vessel and submerged in cold tap water.
A vacuum of 83.5 to 98.5 kPa or 24.7 to 29.0 inches of mercury shall be drawn and
maintained for 30 minutes, followed immediately with application of 450 kPa to 480 kPa
(65 psi to 70 psi) of pressure for 30 minutes duration. Specimens shall then be removed
from the vessel and tested while wet by tension loading to failure in a shear testing
machine operated at a maximum head travel of 762 mm (30 in.) per minute. The jaws of
the machine shall securely grip the specimens so there is no slippage. The percentage of
wood failure of the specimens shall be determined in a dry condition in accordance with
ASTM D5266 and evaluated as described in Sections 5.7.1 and 5.7.2.
The bond between veneers in overlaid plywood shall be tested in an identical manner
and evaluated as described in Section 5.7.2. Specimens for testing the bond between
the overlay and the base panel shall be subjected to the same test cycle just described.
The bond between the overlay and the base panel shall be tested by inserting a sharp,
thin blade of adequate stiffness into the corner of the 25.4 mm (1 in.) test area at the
overlay-veneer interface, taking care not to cut into the overlay and attempting to peel
the overlay off. Reinsertion of the blade several times shall be permitted if necessary, to
remove the overlay from the 6.5 cm2 (1 in.2) area. The percentage of wood and/or fiber
failure shall then be estimated with specimens in a dry condition in accordance with
ASTM D5266 and evaluated as described in Section 5.7.2. The value for each specimen
shall be the average of the test areas on each face.
6.1.3.3 Boiling test
Test specimens shall be boiled in water for 4 hours and then dried for 20 hours at a
temperature of 63 ±3°C (145 ±5°F) with sufficient air circulation to lower moisture
content of the specimens to a maximum of 8%. The specimens shall be boiled again
for a period of 4 hours, cooled in water, and tested while wet by tension loading to
failure in a shear testing machine operated at a maximum head travel of 762 mm (30
in.) per minute. The jaws of the machine shall securely grip the specimens so there
is no slippage. The percentage of wood failure of the specimens shall be determined
with specimens in a dry condition in accordance with ASTM D5266 and evaluated as
described in Sections 5.7.1 and 5.7.2.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

The bond between veneers in overlaid plywood shall be tested in an identical manner
and evaluated as described in Section 5.7.2. Specimens to test the bond between the
overlay and the base panels shall be subjected to the same test cycle described in the
previous paragraph. The bond between the overlay and the base panel shall be tested
by inserting a sharp, thin blade of adequate stiffness into the corner of the 25.4 mm
(1 in.) test area at the overlay-veneer interface, taking care not to cut into the overlay,
and attempting to peel the overlay off. Reinsertion of the blade several times shall
be permitted if necessary, to remove the overlay from the 6.5 cm2 (1 in.2) area. The
percentage of wood and/or fiber failure shall then be estimated with specimens in a dry
condition in accordance with ASTM D5266 and evaluated as described in Section 5.7.2.
The value for each specimen shall be the average of the test areas on each face.
6.1.3.4 Heat performance test
A specimen cut as described in Section 6.1.2 shall be placed on a stand as illustrated in
Figure 3. A specimen shall then be subjected to an 800°C to 900°C (1472°F to 1652°F)
flame from a Bunsen-type burner for a period of 10 minutes, or until a brown charred
area appears on the back side, whichever occurs first. The burner shall be equipped
with a wing top to envelop the entire width of the specimen in flame. The top of the
burner shall be 25.4 mm (1 in.) from the specimen face and the flame 38.1 mm (1-1/2
in.) high. The flame shall impinge on the face of the specimen 50.8 mm (2 in.) from the
bottom end. After the test, the sample shall be removed from the stand and the bond
lines examined for delamination by separating the charred plies with a sharp, chisel-
like instrument. Specimens shall be evaluated in accordance with the requirements of
Section 5.7.2.1.
6.1.4 Test for determination of moisture content (oven-drying method)
The moisture content of the plywood shall be determined as follows: A small test
specimen shall be cut from each sample panel; the test specimen shall measure not less
than 58 cm2 (9 in.2) in area and shall weigh not less than 20 grams (approximately 3/4
ounce). All loose splinters shall be removed from the specimen. The specimen shall
be immediately weighed on a scale that is accurate to ±0.5%, and the weight shall be
recorded as the “original” weight. The specimen shall then be dried in an oven at 100°C
to 105°C (212°F to 221°F) until constant weight is attained. After drying, the specimen
shall be reweighed immediately, and this weight shall be recorded as the “oven-dry”
weight. The moisture content shall be calculated as follows:
(Original weight) - (Oven dry weight)
x 100 = Moisture content (%)
(Oven dry weight)

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

FIGURE 3
APPARATUS FOR HEAT DURABILITY TEST

20
mm

25 mm
20
0m
0

m
Plywood sample

4.8 mm x 20 mm

30
mm
Strap iron frame
150°

80 mm
100 mm
90° 45°

20
mm
30 20 100 mm 20 30 180 mm 100 mm 75 mm
mm mm mm mm
200 mm 355 mm

6.1.5 Scarf and finger-joint tests

6.1.5.1 Scarf and finger-joint strength
Three test specimens shall be cut at random along each joint from each panel selected.
Type, grade and species of the panels shall be recorded. The specimens shall be cut so as
to include the joint and shall be prepared as illustrated in Figure 4.

FIGURE 4
TENSION SPECIMEN FOR SCARFED JOINTED PANELS
50.8 mm
(2 in.)

203 mm (8 in.) Joint 203 mm (8 in.)

varies

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Insofar as possible, the joint test area shall contain no localized natural characteristics
permitted within the grade. At the joint, the maximum thickness and width of plies
parallel with the load shall be recorded. Each specimen shall then be placed in the
tension grips of a testing machine and loaded continuously at a rate of cross-head travel
of from 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm (0.030 in. to 0.040 in.) per minute until failure, and the
ultimate load shall be recorded. The ultimate stress in MPa (psi) shall be computed using
the ultimate load and area of those plies whose grain is parallel with direction of load.
Moisture content of the specimens at the time of testing shall not exceed 16%.
6.1.5.2 Scarf joint bond performance of Exterior and Exposure 1 plywood
Ten test specimens shall be cut at random along each joint from each panel selected
according to Section 6.1.2. The specimens shall be prepared following the general
procedure described in Section 6.1.3.1 and shall be cut so that the joint runs through
the test specimens as shown in Figure 5.

FIGURE 5
SPECIMEN PREPARATION

82.6 mm (3-1/4 in.) 82.6 mm (3-1/4 in.)

25.4 mm
(1 in. )

25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm 25.4 mm

(1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.) (1 in.)
3.2 mm 3.2 mm 3.2 mm 3.2 mm
(1/8 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/8 in.) (1/8 in.)

Five specimens shall be subjected to the vacuum-pressure test described in Section 6.1.3.2,
and five to the boiling test of Section 6.1.3.3. The panels shall be evaluated as described in
Sections 5.7.1 and 5.7.2.
6.1.5.3 Finger-joint bond performance of Exterior and Exposure 1
Ten specimens shall be cut at random along the finger joint from each panel selected
according to Section 6.1.2. These specimens shall be cut so as to include the joint and
shall be prepared as illustrated in Figure 6.
Five of the specimens shall be subjected to the vacuum-pressure test of Section 6.1.3.2
and five to the boiling test of Section 6.1.3.3.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

FIGURE 6
CLEAVAGE TEST, TYPICAL TEST SPECIMEN

Area of wedging
127 mm (5 in.)
Test area

25.4 mm
(1 in.)
Test area
Area of wedging

Upon completion of the applicable moisture cycle(s), a wedge or chisel (see Figure 7)
shall be inserted in locations shown in Figure 6 in such a manner as to pry apart the
scarfed portions of the joint without directly contacting the bonded area. Test specimens
shall be dried and percent wood failure in the test area estimated and applied separately
for both the boil and vacuum-pressure treatments. The panels shall be evaluated as
described in Section 5.9.3.

FIGURE 7
WEDGE OR CHISEL USED FOR CLEAVAGE TEST

50.8 mm (2 in.)
12.7 mm (1/2 in.) dia.
12.7 mm to
25.4 mm
(1/2 in. to
1 in.) wide
Attach to press as required Taper starts

6.2 Structural performance

6.2.1 Tests for performance under concentrated static and impact loads
6.2.1.1 General
The general provisions of ASTM E 661 shall be followed except as modified in these sections.
The test span shall be 19.2 inch for the span rating of 20.
The dry test condition shall be within ±3% of the as-shipped moisture content. The wet
test condition shall be exposure to three days of continuous wetting, then tested wet.
The wet/redry condition shall be exposure to three days of continuous wetting, followed
by testing within 3% of the as-shipped moisture content.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

6.2.1.2 Specimen preparation

Test specimens shall be prepared as specified in ASTM E 661. The number of specimens
required is given in Section 5.8.6.3. Specimens shall also be moisture cycled as required.
6.2.1.3 Test procedure
Concentrated static — Procedures of ASTM E 661 shall be followed, except the test
frame shall be constructed of lumber with nails or of steel using fasteners which simulate
nails. The loading rate shall be 445 N (100 lbf) per 30 seconds to yield failure within five
minutes if a hand-pumped hydraulic loading system is used.
Concentrated impact — Procedures of ASTM E 661 Method A shall be followed, except:
a. The test frame shall be constructed of lumber with nails or of steel using fasteners
which simulate nails.
b. For span ratings greater than 24 oc, the shot bag shall weigh 27 kg (60 pounds).
The width of individual pieces in assembling a test shall be 610 mm (24 in.) or greater
for span ratings up to 24 oc, and 1220 mm (48 in.) for greater span ratings.
6.2.2 Test for performance under uniform loads
6.2.2.1 General
This method shall determine the performance of structural-use panels under uniform
loads such as snow, wind and occupancy loads. The uniform load is applied by
atmospheric pressure as a vacuum is drawn under the test specimen, which is mounted
on fully-supported framing members in a vacuum chamber.
6.2.2.2 Equipment
Vacuum chamber — The vacuum chamber (see Figure 8) shall consist of a sealed box
with the panel to be tested forming the top. A 0.15 mm (6 mil or 0.006 in.) polyethylene
sheet or equivalent, the perimeter of which is attached securely with tape, shall seal the
top surface of the vacuum chamber. The chamber shall be strong and rigid to resist the
applied load without failure or excessive deformation. A vacuum pump shall be used to
reduce the air pressure under the specimen. The load shall be measured with absolute
pressure gauges for electronic data readout, but manometers or vacuum gauges shall also
be permitted.
Joist supports — The framing members shall be spaced at the intended span rating,
except that 20 span rating shall have framing spaced 19.2 inch. Framing shall be
supported so as to resist deflection or rotation under applied load.
Deflection gauges — The deflection gauges shall be mounted to rigid tripods whose legs
rest above the joists. Deflection shall be measured to the nearest 0.03 mm (0.001 in.).

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

FIGURE 8
VACUUM CHAMBER TEST EQUIPMENT

To vacuum pump To pressure gauge or manometer

Test panel

Framing member

Polyethylene sheet taped to

Test panel top of chamber
Tape
Framing member, supported to
resist rotation and deflection

Vacuum chamber

6.2.2.3 Specimen preparation

Samples shall be selected that are representative of the product being tested.
Length — The specimen length perpendicular to the framing member shall be equal to
twice the center-to-center spacing.
Width — The specimen width shall be at least 597 mm (23-1/2 in.).
Thickness — The specimen thickness shall be measured after conditioning and
recorded.
6.2.2.4 Test procedure
After conditioning, the specimen to be tested shall be mounted on the framing members
in the vacuum chamber in accordance with the anticipated joist spacing and the
recommended nail size and spacing. The top of the vacuum chamber shall then be
sealed with the polyethylene sheet, and the tripod holding the deflection gauges set in its
proper position with the gauges positioned to read deflection at the point of maximum
deflection2 of the two outer spans (Figure 9).

2. The point of maximum deflection for a uniformly loaded two-span system shall
occur at 0.4215 (S) measured from the centerline of the outer joist, where S equals the
center-to-center joist spacing.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

FIGURE 9
UNIFORM-LOAD TEST SPECIMENS

W/2
W
Framing member
supported to resist
rotation and vertical
movement
d
S

The panel shall be loaded at a uniform rate of 2.4 kPa (50 lbf/ft2) per minute and
deflections recorded at 1.2 kPa (25 lbf/ft2) increments until maximum load is achieved
or until the desired proof load is achieved, as required. Deflection data shall be required
only in sufficient numbers to develop the straight line portion of the load-deflection
curve. In no case shall the number of data points be less than six. Deflection at a given
load shall be determined by translating the slope to pass through the origin, thereby
correcting for any settling of the system.
6.2.3 Test for panel bending
6.2.3.1 General
This test procedure shall provide the basic data regarding full panel bending strength
and stiffness. The general provisions of ASTM D 3043 Method C shall be followed.
6.2.3.2 Specimen preparation
Specimens shall be prepared according to ASTM D 3043 Method C.
6.2.3.3 Test procedure
The procedures of ASTM D 3043 Method C shall be followed except specimens shall
be tested for stiffness both along and across the major panel axis, and the maximum
bending moment shall be taken as required.
6.2.4 Test for planar shear strength
6.2.4.1 General
This test procedure shall determine the shear strength of plywood panels associated
with shear distortion of the planes parallel to the edge planes of the panel. The general
provisions of ASTM D 2718 shall be followed.
6.2.4.2 Specimen preparation
Specimens shall be prepared in accordance with ASTM D 2718. Specimens shall be prepared
to evaluate planar shear with the face grain direction parallel to the long dimension

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

6.2.4.3 Test procedure

The procedures of ASTM D 2718 (Method A or Method B) shall be followed. Lumber
side plates may be used in lieu of steel plates in Method A. The planar shear strength
shall be measured parallel to the face grain direction.
6.2.5 Test for shear-through-the-thickness strength
6.2.5.1 General
This test procedure shall determine the shear strength when loads are developed along opposite
edges of panels. The general provisions of ASTM D 2719 Method C shall be followed.
6.2.5.2 Specimen preparation
Specimens shall be prepared in accordance with ASTM D 2719 Method C – Two Rail Test.
6.2.5.3 Test procedure
The procedures of ASTM D 2719 Method C shall be followed. The shear-through-the-
thickness strength shall be measured and reported as a capacity, Fvtv.

7 GRADEMARKING AND CERTIFICATION

7.1 Certification
Plywood represented as being in conformance with this Standard shall bear the mark of
a qualified inspection and testing agency which (1) either inspects the manufacture (with
adequate sampling, testing of bond line and examination for quality of all veneers) or
(2) has tested a random sampling of the finished panels in the shipment being certified
for conformance with this standard. The mark shall maintain legibility after weather
exposure during construction.

7.2 Qualified inspection and testing agency

A qualified inspection and testing agency is defined to be one that:
a. A qualified inspection agency is defined as one that is accredited to ISO/IEC 17020,
Conformity Assessment – Requirements for the Operation of Various Types of Bodies
Performing Inspections. An agency accredited to ISO/17065, Conformity Assessment
– Requirements for Bodies Certifying Processes and Services and meets the applicable
requirements of ISO/IEC 17020 and has inspections included in its certification
scheme meets the definition of qualified inspection agency.
b. A qualified testing agency is defined as one that is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025,
General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories. An
agency accredited to ISO/17065, Conformity Assessment-Requirements for Bodies
Certifying Processes and Services and meets the applicable requirements of ISO/IEC
17025 and has testing included in its certification scheme meets the definition of
qualified testing agency.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

7.3 Panel marking

All panels represented as conforming to this Standard shall be identified with marks
giving the following information:
a. Species group number, span rating and class — Unless otherwise provided, panels
which are produced with face and back veneers of the same species group shall
be identified as being of that species group. Touch-sanded panels without span
ratings that are manufactured with face and back plies of different species groups
shall be identified by the larger numbered species group (i.e., Group 4 is larger
numbered than Group 1). Sanded panels with Performance Category of 3/8 or less,
and Decorative panels of any Performance Category, that are manufactured with
face and back plies of different species groups shall be identified by the face species
group number. Sanded panels with Performance Category greater than 3/8 that are
manufactured with face and back plies of different species groups shall be identified
by the larger numbered species group, except that sanded panels with C or D grade
backs shall be permitted to be identified by the face species group number if backs
are no more than one species group larger in number than the face and are 3.2 mm
(1/8 in.) or thicker before sanding. A class number as provided in Section 5.6.4 shall
be used in lieu of a species group number to identify concrete form panels and a span
rating shall be used for grades as provided for in Section 5.8.5.
b. Bond Classification — The panel mark shall include the Exterior or Exposure 1
bond classification. Any further reference to adhesive bond, including those which
imply premium performance or special warranty by the manufacturer, as well as
manufacturer’s proprietary designations, shall be separated from the grademarks or
trademarks of the testing agency by not less than 152 mm (6 in.).
c. The grade name or the grade of face and back veneers or a mark of a qualified
inspection and testing agency. If identified by such a mark, the product specification
shall be available from the qualified inspection and testing agency whose mark appears
on the panel. MDO and HDO panels with one working face shall include “One Working
Face” or “1S” within the grade declaration. MDO and HDO panels with two working
faces may include “Two Working Faces” or “2S” within the grade declaration.
d. The symbol “PS 1-19” signifying conformance with this Standard.
e. The panel fractional Performance Category (see Section 5.10.2) and term “Performance
Category” or abbreviation (i.e., PERF CAT, CAT or Category) shall be labeled on the
panel. In addition, the thickness in 1000ths of an inch within the permitted tolerance
for the Performance Category shall be labeled on the panel. See Appendix D for a
table of recommended Thickness labels.
f. The designation “Butt-Jointed Center” for those panels manufactured with butt joints
in center plies in accordance with Section 5.8.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

7.4 Voiding marks

Panels originally marked as conforming to this Standard but subsequently rejected as
not conforming thereto shall have any reference to the Standard obliterated or voided by
the manufacturer as follows:
Shop panels shall be plainly marked by means of a 102 mm by 127 mm (4 in. x 5 in.)
minimum size mark carrying the legend “Shop-cutting panel – All other agency marks
void.” (See Section 2.56.)
Other panels rejected as not conforming shall be plainly identified by a mark placed next
to, and be no less prominent than the original mark, carrying the legend, “REJECT – All
other agency marks void.”
No reference shall be made to this Standard in the certification or grade trademarking of
panels not conforming to all of the applicable provisions of this Standard.

8 EFFECTIVE DATE
The effective date of this Standard is December 1, 2019. As of the effective date, reference
to PS 1-19 shall be permitted in contracts, codes, advertising, invoices, product labels
and the like, but no product shall be advertised or represented in any manner which
would imply or tend to imply approval or endorsement of that product by the National
Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Commerce or by the Federal
Government.

9 STANDING COMMITTEE
A Standing Committee for PS 1-19 will be appointed to be responsible for interpretation
and for consideration of future proposals for amendments and revisions to the Standard.
The names of the members are available from the Committee’s Secretariat: Standards
Coordination and Conformity Group, Standards Services Division, National Institute of
Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, MS 2100, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-2100.
Comments regarding the Standard and suggestions for its amendment or revision may
also be sent to this address or contact NIST at http://ts.nist.gov/ssd.
Issues regarding interpretation or implementation of the Standard and third-
party quality assurance policies and procedures shall be considered by a Standard
Implementation Review Subcommittee as appointed by the Standing Committee.
A request to consider such issues shall be made in writing to the Secretariat of
the Standing Committee (NIST), who will bring it to the attention of the Standing
Committee. Formal operating procedures developed for the Subcommittee shall be
subject to approval by NIST. Any recommended actions by the Subcommittee will be
reported to the Standing Committee for their consideration and action.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

APPENDIX A. Species Grouping (Mandatory)

A1 General
Product Standard PS 1 has included provisions for species grouping since the inception
of PS 1 in 1966. Prior to PS 1-66, U.S. plywood was manufactured in accordance
with three regional plywood standards, Commercial Standard CS45-60 for Douglas-
fir Plywood, Commercial Standard CS 122-60 for Western Softwood Plywood and
Commercial Standard CS 269-63 for Southern Pine Plywood. Grouping of wood species
on the basis of similar mechanical properties in order to provide needed simplification
in product manufacture, design and specification became possible with the advent of
ASTM D 2555, Methods for Establishing Clear Wood Strength Values.

A2 Grouping in practice
Under the provisions of PS 1, it is possible to manufacture span rated plywood Sheathing
and Single-Floor on the basis of the species group and plywood construction. Similarly,
the plywood group rating or plywood classification of non-span rated plywood may be
determined by the species group and plywood construction. PS 1-83 introduced the
provisions of determining span ratings on the basis of performance testing. PS 1-95 included
a performance-based method for evaluating new species not listed in Table 1, made desirable
because of the changing available timber resource for plywood production.

A3 Species grouping
Wood species in Table 1 are grouped on the basis of mechanical properties. Because
bending stiffness and bending strength are the most important properties for many
plywood uses, species groups were initially set up first on the basis of bending stiffness
and second on the basis of bending strength. Past practice of the PS 1 Standing Committee
has been to add new species to the highest existing group so long as none of the existing
group properties assignments provided in Table A1 are reduced by the addition.

TABLE A1
CLEAR WOOD PROPERTY ASSIGNMENTS
Strength Property (psi)
MOE
Species (million psi) Bending Comp Par Shear Comp Perp
Group Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry
1 1.483 1.857 5300 8064 2425 4123 665 855 193 354
2 1.249 1.588 3662 6297 1833 3163 532 692 124 221
3 1.047 1.310 3681 5985 1548 2662 524 652 123 212
4 0.924 1.146 3483 5389 1570 2630 476 633 97 152
5 0.748 1.100 2843 4345 1190 2187 387 542 73 132

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A3.1 Assignment of a species group shall be as follows:

a. Obtain average and standard deviation data of the five important mechanical
properties of clear, straight-grained solid wood of all species in each group in the
green and dry condition. The five properties are bending modulus of elasticity (MOE),
bending modulus of rupture, compression parallel to grain, shear parallel to grain and
compression perpendicular to grain. Property data for North American woods must
be included in ASTM D 2555 or must be developed by the U.S. Forest Service or by a
recognized Canadian government Laboratory. In addition, new data must be obtained
using recognized statistical sampling of the entire growth range of the species.
Foreign species are classified using data from the government laboratory in the
respective country. Table A2 provides the source of data used to classify non-North
American species listed in PS 1. For each of the five properties, the limiting property
value that can be assigned to any group that includes that species is determined at the
dry (12% for MOE, 15% for all other properties) and green moisture content.
b. The maximum assignable MOE value is either the species average increased by 10%
if volume data is available in ASTM D2555 or the species average if no volume data
exists or if it is a foreign species.
c. The strength properties are calculated in one of the following three methods:
Method A species in ASTM D 2555
Max. Assignable = (species average/variability index) – 1.18 x species standard deviation
Method B species in ASTM D 2555
Max. Assignable = species average – 1.48 x species standard deviation
Domestic species with no volume data and foreign species
Max. Assignable = species average – 1.645 x species standard deviation
The maximum assignable property must meet or exceed all property values listed in
Table A1 for the species group in order to be assigned that group.
d. Assignment of a species group to Table 1 shall be approved by the Standing Committee.
(See Section 5.2.)

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE A2
SOURCE OF DATA USED TO CLASSIFY FOREIGN SPECIES IN PLYWOOD PRODUCT STANDARD PS 1
Common Name or
Trade Group Scientific Name Source of Data
GROUP 1
FPL 125
Apitong Dipterocarpus spp.
FPL 2242 (bearing only)
Dryobalanops aromatica Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
Kapur D. lanceolata FPL 125
D. oblongifolia Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
Dipterocarpus spp. FPL 2242
D. baudii Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
D. caudiferus FPL 2242
Keruing
D. cornutus Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
D. crinitus Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
D. lowii Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
Caribbean Pine Pinus caribaea FPL 125
Ocote Pine Pinus oocarpa FPL 125
GROUP 2
FPL 125
Red Lauan Shorea negrosensis
FPL 2242 (bearing only)
FPL 125
Tangile Shorea polysperma
FPL 2242 (bearing only)
FPL 125
White Lauan Pentacme contorta
FPL 2242 (bearing only)
FPL 125
Almon Shorea almon
FPL 2242 (bearing only)
FPL 125
Bagtikan Parashorea plicata
FPL 2242 (bearing only)
Anisoptera laevis Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
Mersawa
A. marginata Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
Mayapis Shorea squamata FPL 125
Parashorea lucida Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #5
Shorea acuminata Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
Meranti S. singkawang Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. curtisii Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. dasyphylla FPL 125
S. hemslevana Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. leprosula Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. macroptera Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. pauciflora Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. platyclados Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
S. rugosa Malayan Forest Service Trade Leaflet #34
GROUP 4
FPL 125
Cativo Prioria copaifera Yale Bulletin #98 Tropical Woods (bearing
only)

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

APPENDIX B. Reinspection Practices (Non-Mandatory)

B1 General
Based on industry practice, the following information is offered to plywood purchasers:

B2 Request for reinspection

Any request by the buyer for the reinspection of any item or lot of plywood certified as
conforming to this Standard shall be directed to the seller. Lacking agreement of the
buyer and seller as to the settlement of a complaint, the purchase, sale, or shipment
of plywood certified as conforming to this Standard shall be construed as involving
agreement to submit such plywood to reinspection by the qualified inspection agency
whose grademark was used.

B3 Responsibility of the buyer

A request for reinspection shall be made to the seller:
For panel grade — within 30 days after arrival at the first point of receipt from the mill,
if the grade of any item, as invoiced, is in doubt;
For adhesive bond quality of Exterior panels — when delamination is visibly evident;
For adhesive bond quality of Exposure 1 — within six months after arrival at first
point of receipt from the mill if delamination is visibly evident.
All plywood of disputed grade shall be kept intact and properly protected from damage,
deterioration and from direct exposure to moisture which could interfere with a fair
reinspection. All plywood in question shall be held for a period not to exceed 30 days
after the date of request for reinspection. Use by the buyer of any or all of the disputed
stock within the 30-day period shall constitute an acceptance of the used portion.

B4 Responsibility of the seller

A request for reinspection shall be promptly acknowledged by the seller following receipt
of the request.

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B5 Responsibility of the qualified inspection agency conducting the

reinspection
Should either the buyer or the seller wish to have a representative present at the
reinspection, the agency conducting the reinspection will provide all reasonable
accommodation to facilitate that request. Any party wishing to witness the reinspection
shall inform the agency of that desire at the time of the initial request for reinspection,
and shall be responsible for any costs they incur in order to attend. Costs incurred by the
agency performing the reinspection shall be assessed as noted in Section B6.

B6 Cost and assistance

The expense of reinspection shall be borne by the seller if the item, lot, or shipment in
dispute fails to pass the reinspection as provided for in Section B7. If the plywood passes
the reinspection, said expenses shall be borne by the buyer. The buyer shall lend all
reasonable assistance to facilitate the reinspection.

B7 Reinspection procedures and settlement

B7.1 Condition of plywood
All plywood designated as complying with this Standard shall be subject to reinspection
in the white (unfinished) only, except that concrete-form material is permitted to have
a priming coat of a release agent. This requirement does not apply to Exposure 1 or
Exterior plywood when tested for adhesive bond quality.

B7.2 Sampling for panel grade, size and thickness reinspections

At buyer’s or seller’s option, grade, size, and thickness reinspections shall include all
panels of an item whose conformance to this Standard is in dispute; however, agreement
between the buyer and seller on a reduced basis for sampling is permitted provided at
least 20% or 300 panels, whichever is smaller and which represents only those items as
invoiced which are in dispute, are reinspected for conformance. For reduced sampling,
the quantity of panels selected from each disputed item shall be prorated according to
the number of panels included in each item as invoiced. Panels found to be below grade
or out of tolerance for size and thickness shall have improper grademarks obliterated
and shall be remarked with appropriate designation with a special inspection mark
registered by the qualified agency conducting the reinspection and applied by that
agency’s authorized representative.

B7.3 Plywood panel grade, size and thickness reinspections

If reinspection establishes that a disputed item is more than 5% below grade or out of
dimensional tolerance for the product description as invoiced, that product fails to pass
the reinspection and the nonconforming panels need not be accepted. If a disputed
product is 5% or less below grade or out of dimensional tolerance, it shall pass the
reinspection and the disposition of the nonconforming panels shall be as agreed upon

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

between buyer and seller. In addition to the above 5% grade and dimensional tolerance,
a 5% tolerance shall apply separately to the inner ply gap limitations, including the
limitations applicable to the plugged crossband and jointed crossband, as set forth in
section 5.8.1.

B7.4 Sampling for adhesive bond quality reinspections

For test purposes, 20 panels, or 5% of the panels, whichever is less, shall be selected
at random from the item, lot, or shipment which is in dispute. The number of panels
required is calculated by applying the “percent panels” to the lot size and converting
part panels to whole panels by using a rounding procedure where 0.01 to 0.49 parts are
considered to be the smaller whole number, while 0.50 to 0.99 parts are considered to
be the larger whole number. These panels shall be selected from locations distributed
as widely as practicable throughout the material being sampled. When an item, lot, or
shipment involves panels with different adhesive bond requirements as provided for in
5.7, testing and evaluation shall apply separately to each category. Sampling of Exposure
1 plywood or Exterior plywood shall be prorated on the basis of ratio of their volume
to total volume (i.e., for shipment containing 50% Exterior, 10 Exterior panels shall be
selected), but in no case shall less than 10 panels of each type or adhesive quality be
selected. Shipments of Exposure 1 plywood shall be sampled in the same manner as
Exterior plywood.
From each of five of the panels selected, a specimen 140 mm by 203 mm (5-1/2 in. x
8 in.) shall be cut and tested as described in Section 6.1.3.4.

B7.5 Plywood adhesive bond quality reinspections

Reinspection of the unused panels in the disputed item, lot, or shipment shall be carried
out following the procedures set forth in Section 6, “Specimen Preparation and Testing,”
and Section B7.4. If the reinspection tests establish that the adhesive bond quality of
the panels does not meet the requirements of Section 5.7, as applicable, the item, lot or
shipment shall fail to pass the reinspection and is not required to be accepted by the
buyer. If the adhesive bond quality requirements are met, the item, lot, or shipment shall
pass the reinspection and the buyer shall accept the item, lot or shipment as invoiced,
except that the buyer is not required to accept any delaminated Exterior plywood or
overlaid panels.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

APPENDIX C. General Information and Comments on

Current Edition (Non-Mandatory)
C1 History of the project
On October 1, 1965, the American Plywood Association (now APA – The Engineered
Wood Association) submitted to the National Bureau of Standards (now the National
Institute of Standards and Technology) a draft of a proposed Commercial Standard on
softwood plywood, with a request that it be processed as a revision and consolidation
of Commercial Standards CS 45-60 Douglas Fir Plywood, CS 122-60 Western Softwood
Plywood and CS 259-63 Southern Pine Plywood. On November 1, 1966, Product Standard
PS 1-66 Softwood Plywood, Construction and Industrial became effective. It was the first
Voluntary Product Standard developed under new Department procedures, issued on
November 16, 1965, for development of Voluntary Product Standards.
Since 1966, there have been six revisions to the Standard:

C2.1 PS 1-74 Construction and Industrial Plywood became effective

August 1, 1974
Among other revisions, this version added over 20 species, primarily Southeast Asian
hardwoods, to Table 1.

C2.2 PS 1-83 Construction and Industrial Plywood became effective

December 30, 1983
This version added performance-based test methods and criteria for span rated
applications.

C2.3 PS 1-95 Construction and Industrial Plywood became effective

September 7, 1995
This version included the incorporation of a performance-based method for evaluating
plywood manufactured with species not listed in Table 1, made desirable because of the
changing available timber resource for plywood production. The revisions included the
elimination of Structural II panel grades from the Standard because this product had
rarely been manufactured since it was first introduced in PS 1-66.

C2.4 PS 1-07 Structural Plywood became effective February 26, 2007

This version revised several sections of the standard to better represent the production
and trade specifications for the products. These included a change to the title of the
standard, elimination of the interior and intermediate bond types, revisions to the
overlaid plywood designations and addition of an appendix to detail the process for
species grouping.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

C2.5 PS 1-09 Structural Plywood became effective May 2010

In response to consumer complaints regarding thickness labeling being out of
compliance with NIST Handbook 130 and 133, the standard was revised to create a
Performance Category based on customary thickness notations used in U.S. model
building codes. In addition, panel labeling requirements was changed to require
the Performance Category and decimal thickness representation. Nonmandatory
Appendices were added to provide recommended labeling and to provide guidance on
quantity representations on bundles.
In addition, non-mandatory Appendices were added to describe formaldehyde emission
characteristics of PS 1 panels and how PS 1 panels align with various green building
specifications.

C2.6 Current edition, PS 1-19 that became effective December 1, 2019

After considerable technical review by members of the PS 1 Standing Committee, the
standard was revised to address the following technical and informational aspects.
Additional details were added regarding measurement of dimensions. The term “sized
for spacing” was added to denote panels that are sized for compatibility to recommended
application for construction uses.
Other technical and editorial revisions were made to reflect industry practices, including:
ƒ Simplification of the Appendix on labeling
ƒ Deletion of the Appendix on Green Building Provisions
ƒ Revised definition of qualified testing and inspection agency
ƒ Added abbreviations commonly used for labeling

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

APPENDIX D. (Non-Mandatory)
D1 Recommended thickness labels
Section 5.10.2 specifies thickness tolerances and Performance Categories for plywood
grades. Section 7.3.e specifies that the panels shall be labeled with a thickness label
in 1000ths of an inch and that labeled quantity shall be within the minimum and
maximum thickness specification for that Performance Category. Table D1 and Table D2
present recommended thickness labels.

D2 Regulations on labeling
See Appendix E for discussion of regulations dealing with labeling.

TABLE D1
RECOMMENDED THICKNESS LABELING FOR UNSANDED, TOUCH-SANDED AND OVERLAID PANELS
Thickness Requirements for Unsanded, Touch-Sanded and Overlaid Grades1
Minimum Thickness Maximum Thickness Recommended
Performance Category2 in. (mm) in. (mm) Thickness Label3
1/4 PERF CAT 0.219 (5.56) 0.281 (7.14) Thickness .225 IN.
11/32 PERF CAT 0.313 (7.94) 0.375 (9.53) Thickness .322 IN.
3/8 PERF CAT 0.344 (8.73) 0.406 (10.32) Thickness .354 IN.
7/16 PERF CAT 0.406 (10.32) 0.469 (11.91) Thickness .418 IN.
15/32 PERF CAT 0.438 (11.11) 0.500 (12.70) Thickness .451 IN.
1/2 PERF CAT 0.469 (11.91) 0.531 (13.49) Thickness .483 IN.
9/16 PERF CAT 0.531 (13.49) 0.594 (15.08) Thickness .547 IN.
19/32 PERF CAT 0.563 (14.29) 0.625 (15.88) Thickness .578 IN.
5/8 PERF CAT 0.594 (15.08) 0.656 (16.67) Thickness .609 IN.
23/32 PERF CAT 0.688 (17.46) 0.750 (19.05) Thickness .703 IN.
3/4 PERF CAT 0.719 (18.26) 0.781 (19.84) Thickness .734 IN.
13/16 PERF CAT 0.781 (19.84) 0.844 (21.43) Thickness .788 IN.
7/8 PERF CAT 0.831 (21.11) 0.919 (23.34) Thickness .849 IN.
1 PERF CAT 0.950 (24.13) 1.050 (26.67) Thickness .970 IN.
1-1/8 PERF CAT 1.069 (27.15) 1.181 (30.00) Thickness 1.091 IN.
1-1/4 PERF CAT 1.188 (30.16) 1.313 (33.34) Thickness 1.213 IN.
1. Thickness requirements for unsanded, touch-sanded and overlaid panels are based on a tolerance of ±0.8
mm (1/32 in.) for panels with Performance Categories of 13/16 and less and ±5% for panels with Performance
Categories greater than 13/16 unless a closer tolerance is determined through qualification testing. Inch units
are presented as primary units due to customary practice in the United States.
2. Acceptable abbreviations are PERF CAT, CAT or Category.
3. The recommended thickness label for categories less than 9/16 is 3% above the minimum. The recommended
thickness label for categories greater than or equal to 9/16 are the minimum values for sanded panels.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

TABLE D2
RECOMMENDED THICKNESS LABELING FOR SANDED PANELS
Thickness Requirements for Sanded Panels1
Minimum Thickness Maximum Thickness Recommended
Performance Category2 in. (mm) in. (mm) Thickness Label3
1/4 PERF CAT 0.234 (5.95) 0.266 (6.75) Thickness .234 IN.
11/32 PERF CAT 0.328 (8.33) 0.359 (9.139 Thickness .328 IN.
3/8 PERF CAT 0.359 (9.13) 0.391 (9.92) Thickness .359 IN.
7/16 PERF CAT 0.422 (10.72) 0.453 (11.51) Thickness .422 IN.
15/32 PERF CAT 0.453 (11.51) 0.484 (12.30) Thickness .453 IN.
1/2 PERF CAT 0.484 (12.30) 0.516 (13.10) Thickness .484 IN.
9/16 PERF CAT 0.547 (13.89) 0.578 (14.68) Thickness .547 IN.
5/8 PERF CAT 0.609 (15.48) 0.641 (16.27) Thickness .609 IN.
23/32 PERF CAT 0.703 (17.86) 0.734 (18.65) Thickness .703 IN.
3/4 PERF CAT 0.734 (18.65) 0.766 (19.45) Thickness .734 IN.
13/16 PERF CAT 0.788 (20.02) 0.837 (21.26) Thickness .788 IN.
7/8 PERF CAT 0.849 (21.56) 0.901 (22.89) Thickness .849 IN.
1 PERF CAT 0.970 (24.64) 1.030 (26.16) Thickness .970 IN.
1-1/8 PERF CAT 1.091 (27.72) 1.159 (29.43) Thickness 1.091 IN.
1-1/4 PERF CAT 1.213 (30.80) 1.288 (32.70) Thickness 1.213 IN.
1. Thickness requirements for sanded panels are based on a tolerance of ±0.4 mm (1/64 in) for specified
performance categories of 3/4 and less and ±3.0% for panels with a performance category greater than
3/4 unless a closer tolerance is determined through qualification testing. Inch units are presented as primary
units due to customary practice in the United States.
2. Acceptable abbreviations are PERF CAT, CAT or Category.
3. Recommended thickness labels for performance categories are based on the minimum permissible thickness for
that category.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

APPENDIX E. Labeling Guidelines Based on the Uniform

Packaging and Labeling Regulations of NIST Handbook
130 and Handbook 133 (Non-Mandatory)
E1 Summary
E1.1 When intended for sale or distribution, the labeling of the panels should meet the
requirements of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation. This section provides
references to standards applicable to labeling and packaging.

E2 Background
E2.1 The National Institute of Standards and Technology of the U.S. Department of
Commerce (NIST) promotes the development of standards to be applied across industry
and supports the publishing of NIST Handbook 130, Uniform Laws and Regulations in the
Areas of Legal Metrology and Engine Fuel Quality. NIST Handbook 130 is a compilation of
the latest uniform laws and regulations regarding packaging and labeling requirements
adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures, Inc. (NCWM) and is
intended to represent standards to be adopted into law by the weights and measures
jurisdictions of the United States.
E2.2 Procedures used by Weights and Measures inspectors are included in NIST Handbook
133, Checking the Net Contents of Packaged Goods.
E2.3 For information, a complete copy of the most recent version of NIST Handbook 130 and
133 are available at: https://www.nist.gov/publications/.

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PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

APPENDIX F. Formaldehyde (Non-Mandatory)

F1 General
Formaldehyde is a simple naturally occurring chemical made of carbon, oxygen and
hydrogen. It is produced by the human body and animals and plants. It is also formed
by combustion and is an industrial chemical widely used in the manufacture of many
consumer products. Background information on formaldehyde and health concerns
related to elevated levels in indoor air can be found at www.epa.gov/iaq/formalde.html.

F2 Formaldehyde regulations
F2.1 There are no national or state regulations of formaldehyde emissions expressly stated for PS 1
Structural Plywood. This is mainly due to the very low emission rates demonstrated by PS 1
Structural Plywood.
F2.2 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Rules and Regulations 24 CFR
3280 for manufactured housing includes § 3280.308 “Formaldehyde emission controls for
certain wood products” that deals with formaldehyde emissions from particleboard and
plywood. The regulations establish limits for formaldehyde emission levels and ongoing
evaluation requirements as follows (underlined emphasis added):
(b) Product certification and continuing qualification. All plywood and particleboard
materials to be installed in manufactured homes which are bonded with a resin system
or coated with a surface finish containing formaldehyde, other than an exclusively
phenol-formaldehyde resin system or finish, shall be certified by a nationally recognized
testing laboratory as complying with paragraph (a) of this section.
PS 1 Structural Plywood is made predominantly with phenol-formaldehyde adhesives.
When made as such, it is exempt from the HUD requirements.
F2.3 California Air Resources Board (CARB) Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) for
Composite Wood Products (see: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/formaldehyde.htm)
The CARB ATCM for Composite Wood was approved for implementation on January 1,
2009. The scope of the standard is particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and
hardwood plywood. Section § 93120.1 “Definitions” explicitly excludes PS 1 Structural
Plywood and other structural wood products from the scope of the standard as follows
(underlined emphasis added):
(8) “Composite wood products” means hardwood plywood, particleboard, and medium
density fiberboard. “Composite wood products” does not include hardboard, structural
plywood as specified in the Voluntary Product Standard - Structural Plywood (PS 1-07),
structural panels as specified in the Voluntary Product Standard – Performance Standard
for Wood-Based Structural-Use Panels (PS 2-04), structural composite lumber as specified
in Standard Specification for Evaluation of Structural Composite Lumber Products (ASTM
D 5456-06), oriented strand board, glued laminated timber as specified in Structural

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Glued Laminated Timber (ANSI A190.1-2002), prefabricated wood I-joists as specified in

Standard Specification for Establishing and Monitoring Structural Capacities of Prefabricated
Wood I-Joists (ASTM D 5055-05), finger-jointed lumber, or “composite wood products”
used inside of new vehicles as defined in section 430 of the California Vehicle Code
(excluding recreational vehicles), railcars, boats, aerospace craft or aircraft.

F2.4 National “Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Act”

The Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Composites Act was signed into law on July 7,
2010. With respect to PS 1 panels, this law is identical to the CARB ATCM for Composite
Wood (see Section F2.3). PS 1 panels are exempt from the scope of the Formaldehyde
Standards for Composite Wood Act. For further information see: https://www.epa.gov/.

F3 Formaldehyde emission from PS 1 Plywood

F3.1 Information on formaldehyde emission from PS 1 panels is available from APA in
Technical Note: Formaldehyde and Engineered Wood Products, Form J330.
See: www.apawood.org.

Form No. L870B  ■  © 2020 APA – The Engineered Wood Association  ■ www.apawood.org  73
PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

HOW TO READ THE BASIC TRADEMARKS OF

APA – THE ENGINEERED WOOD ASSOCIATION
Product Standard PS 1-19 is intended to provide for clear understanding between buyer and
seller. To identify ­plywood manufactured by association member mills under the requirements
of Product Standard PS 1-19, four type of trademarks and one typical edge mark are illustrated.
They include the plywood’s exposure durability classification, grade and group, and class or span
rating. Here’s how they look, together with notations on what each element means.

SANDED GRADES UNSANDED GRADES

Grade of veneer on panel back Panel grade RATED SHEATHING

Grade of veneer on panel face A-C GROUP 1 Span Rating 32/16
Species Group number
Bond classification EXTERIOR
Bond classification EXPOSURE 1
THICKNESS 0.328 IN. THICKNESS 0.451 IN.
Mill number
000 Product Standard 000
Product Standard governing manufacture PS 1-19 C-D
governing manufacture PS 1-19 15/32 CATEGORY
11/32 CATEGORY Performance category
Performance category

CONCRETE FORM SPECIALTY PANELS

Registered trademark of
APA – The Engineered Wood
Association for B-B (concrete form)
PLYFORM Panel grade RATED SIDING
Grade of veneer on panel back Siding face grade 303-6-S/W
Grade of veneer on panel face
Class of production
B-B CLASS 1 Span Rating
16 oc GROUP 1
Species Group number
Bond classification EXTERIOR SIZED FOR SPACING
THICKNESS 0.734 IN. Bond classification EXTERIOR
Mill number
Product Standard 000 THICKNESS 0.578 IN.
governing manufacture PS 1-19
Mill number
APA’s Performance-Rated
000
3/4 CATEGORY PS 1-19
Performance category Panel Standard PRP-108 HUD-UM-40
Product Standard 19/32 CATEGORY
governing manufacture
Performance category
HUD Use of Materials
Bulletin number
Grade of veneer on panel face
Grade of veneer on panel back
Product Standard Performance
Bond classification governing manufacture Category

A-B • G-1 • EXT • 0.703 IN. • APA • 000 • PS 1-19 • 23/32 CAT

Species Group number Thickness Mill number

Form No. L870B  ■  © 2020 APA – The Engineered Wood Association  ■ www.apawood.org  74
PS 1-19: Structural Plywood

Index to the Typical Registered Trademarks and Edge Marks of

APA – The Engineered Wood Association

MDO 1S GENERAL
A-D GROUP 1 B-C GROUP 1 B-C GROUP 1
EXPOSURE 1 EXTERIOR EXTERIOR
THICKNESS 0.453 IN. THICKNESS 0.578 IN. THICKNESS 0.453 IN.
000 000 000
PS 1-19 PS 1-19 PS 1-19
15/32 CATEGORY 19/32 CATEGORY 15/32 CATEGORY

MDO GENERAL • B-B • G-2 • EXT • 0.578 IN. • APA • 000 • PS 1-19 • 19/32 CAT

A-B • G-1 • EXT • 0.703 IN. • APA • 000 • PS 1-19 • 23/32 CAT

RATED SHEATHING RATED SHEATHING RATED STURD-I-FLOOR

32/16 STRUCTURAL I
20 oc
EXPOSURE 1 24/0 SIZED FOR SPACING
T&G NET WIDTH 47-1/2
THICKNESS 0.451 IN. SIZED FOR SPACING
EXPOSURE 1
000 EXPOSURE 1
THICKNESS 0.578 IN.
PS 1-19 C-D
THICKNESS 0.354 IN.
15/32 CATEGORY 000 000
PS 1-19
PS 1-19 C-D UNDERLAYMENT
3/8 CATEGORY
19/32 CATEGORY

UNDERLAYMENT RATED SHEATHING C-C PLUGGED

GROUP 1 STRUCTURAL I GROUP 1
EXPOSURE 1 48/24 EXTERIOR
THICKNESS 0.451 IN. SIZED FOR SPACING THICKNESS 0.451 IN.
000 EXTERIOR 000
PS 1-19 THICKNESS 0.703 IN. PS 1-19
15/32 CATEGORY 000 15/32 CATEGORY
PS 1-19 C-C
23/32 CATEGORY

HDO CONCRETE FORM • B-B • CLASS I • EXT • 0.703 IN. • APA • 000 • PS 1-19 • 23/32 CAT

Form No. L870B  ■  © 2020 APA – The Engineered Wood Association  ■ www.apawood.org  75
 PS 1-19: Structural Plywood
We have field representatives in many major U.S. cities and in Canada
who can help answer questions involving APA trademarked products.
For additional assistance in specifying engineered wood products, contact us:

A PA H E A D Q UA R TE R S
7011 So. 19th St. ■ Tacoma, Washington 98466
(253) 565-6600 ■ Fax: (253) 565-7265

P RO D U C T SU P P O R T H E LP D E S K
(253) 620-7400 ■ [email protected]

D I SC L A I M E R
The information contained herein is based on APA – The Engineered Wood Association’s ­continuing
programs of laboratory testing, product research, and comprehensive field experience. Neither
APA, nor its members make any warranty, expressed or implied, or assume any legal liability or
responsibility for the use, application of, and/or reference to opinions, findings, conclusions, or rec-
ommendations included in this publication. Consult your local jurisdiction or design professional to
assure compliance with code, construction, and performance requirements. Because APA has no
control over quality of workmanship or the conditions under which engineered wood products are
used, it cannot accept responsibility for product performance or designs as actually constructed.

Form No. L870B/Revised January 2020

© 2020 APA – The Engineered Wood Association