Galley 1/2 or 3/4" ply??

[shoeman]

I'm at the galley stage now and am wondering if I can use 1/2" ply for two reasons:
1) save some weight
2) 5' pieces are readily available

I got one of those Kreg pocket joint kits and they are Da Bomb for this kind of work and that along with good glue should make for a strong cabinet.

Any thoughts?

[Wolffarmer]

I used 1/2 inch ply for the counter top in a 4 foot wide, but there is a support in the center. If you can have a support there I see no reason for 3/4 inch. Probably would be good for a 5 wide also with at least one middle support. But I would not go wider, or put a 1/2inch counter in a house.

[Sparksalot]

I used 1/2" in mine, it's 5 wide. It will have 2 supports below to give 3 separate areas for stove/cookware, ice chest and other stuff.

[2bits]

I used 3/4" for the countertop in mine but 1/2" for all other cabinet work. I contemplated which one for a long time though. My wood working table is made from 1/2" but has framing underneath and it is tough so I think that would be fine. I just wanted my countertop to feel solid all over. The 1/2" on my work table flexes even though I can walk on it. I also used 1/2" plywood for the bed of my truck too and it is fine

[dwgriff1]

I used 1/8 for everything. The counter is a torsion box with foam insulation in the center. Lighter and plenty strong.

dave

[Roly Nelson]

My kind of thinking, Dave. Keep it light and strong. I used 3/16 plywood for everything, counter, drawer sides and bottoms, doors and cabinets. Since I don't plan to stand on my counter top, it's plenty strong for the few pots or camp stove placed upon it.
Roly

[dwgriff1]

thin plywood costs less too!

dave

[bobhenry]

a construction salvage store will have used hollow core doors that range from 12" to 36 " widths. These can be easily cut down in length. Just rip a plug for the cut end and glue it in place.