Wood Options – Door Dam Builder

Plywood or Shelving Board

Two main wood options to protect your home from water are shelving boards and plywood.
Shelving boards are typically 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 8 feet long.
These dimensions work well in flood-prone areas with water levels below 11 inches.
Shelving boards may not need cutting and are available off the shelf, making them a simple option for some areas.
Plywood is the better choice for regions vulnerable to storm surges, which can reach up to 3.5 feet.
Plywood sheets are usually 4 feet by 8 feet with thicknesses ranging from ¼ inch to ¾ inch.
Using 2 or 3 layers of plywood is recommended for maximum protection, especially in coastal regions.
Doubling or tripling plywood thickness can help withstand the force of moving water during storm surges.