What Are the Most Common Mistakes People Make When Buying Wood?

Whether you’re building your dream home, fixing up furniture, or starting a construction project, choosing the right wood product matters more than most anticipate. At Altwood, we often see customers make costly mistakes from lack of clarity. Let’s unpack the most common pitfalls when buying wood—especially plywood—and how to avoid them.

 

1. Confusing Different Plywood Types

Not all plywood is the same! There’s:

  • Shuttering plywood for concrete formwork,

  • Alternate plywood (ALT) blending hardwood and softwood,

  • Red core plywood offering visual appeal and strength,

  • And pinewood plywood suited for lighter usage.

Think about what you’re building. We help you choose the ideal option—whether it’s kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, or modular furniture.
Explore more in our All Products catalog.

 

2. Focusing Only on Price, Not Quality

Budget matters, but choosing only by cost can backfire. Cheap plywood often means poor bonding, uneven layers, or untreated cores. At Altwood, you’ll find competitive plywood prices without sacrificing strength or lifespan—whether you’re sourcing for Ranchi, Odisha, Asansol, or the North East wood market.

 

3. Overlooking Core Quality

Always inspect the edge of a plywood sheet—that’s where quality shows. Avoid boards with gaps or soft core layers. Altwood’s selections—alternate plywood, red core, and block board—come with solid cores and termite resistance.
If you’re planning wardrobes or doors, consider treated cores for long-lasting performance.

 

4. Choosing the Wrong Material for the Job

Using shuttering plywood for cabinets, or block board for structural shelves? Those are recipes for issues. Each type of wood has its purpose:

Project TypeRecommended Material
Concrete FormworkShuttering Plywood
Heavy-Duty FurniturePlywood Sheets
Vertical Panels / DoorsPinewood Block Board
Interior DoorsFlush Doors

 

5. Neglecting Treatment & Finishes

Inspection for moisture, termite, and borer protection is essential—especially in humid areas like Odisha, Jharkhand, and eastern India. Altwood offers treated, high-quality plywood and trim options that save time and money on painting or finishing.

 

6. Buying from Unverified Suppliers

Purchasing from unreliable sources means no quality control, no delivery guarantees, and no support. Altwood is a trusted plywood manufacturer & supplier across the region, offering reliability, transparency, and service from Asansol to the North East.

 

Final Thoughts

Buying plywood isn’t just about slabs—it’s about investing wisely. Whether you’re a homeowner, craftsman, or contractor, knowing your options can save money and elevate your work. From alternate plywood to shuttering boards, block boards, and flush doors, Altwood offers a comprehensive, reliable range.

Still unsure? We’re always ready to guide. Contact our team and let’s help you build better: Contact Us.

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