Using external plywood as fake facia panels?

[Br1an]

Hi,
New to the site so thanks for allowing me to join in!
I'd describe myself as an enthusiastic DIY'er and am willing to give anything a go so I'm looking for some advice.

I'm redesigning my kennels on a budget and for part of it am looking to cover a 5m section of fence with 8x4 plywood which will be stained to match the rest of the fence. This will hopefully a) block visibility outside the garden and b) protect it from the boys lifting their legs.

Here's the thing, In my minds eye plain sheets of ply will look a bit keich so I've had this idea of running grooves to give the impression of cladding without the associated costs. Do you think this could be achieved with my circular saw (if I use a fine toothed blade) without ripping the surface of the ply or do I really need to invest in a router?

I'm also needing two 6x4 kennels and if this idea is feasible I'll likely make them using Plywood and save on the cost of shiplap cladding (notice the 'saving money' theme?)

Any insight greatly appreciated!

 

[RobinBHM]

I don't think cutting into the ply is a great idea -it seems like it will expose end grain.

What about pinning on a small batten vertically at intervals of say 200mm? Maybe cut down tile batten...

 

[oakmitre]

Are you sure that (18mm) plywood is cheaper than shiplap fencing ?

I was quoted by a builder friend for good quality 6ft high treated softwood fence panels from the builders merchant he uses, these where much sturdier than the type you get from B&Q and were less than £25

I quick google search shows Selco ( which is a trade shop - but I think any business person can join ) doing 6'x6' panels for £18 + VAT on offer at the moment.

https://www.selcobw.com/special-offers- ... 0wodWqAL2w

Most plywood fencing is used by building companies to hide building works, and it is either left plain or painted with flat paint for a reason.

Cutting lines in the plywood will only encourage de-lamination ( in particular if you cut at right angles to the grain exposing end grain ).

People accept the normal weathering appearance of wood, but the weathering appearance of plywood does tend to look tatty.

You may just end up spending time trying to make something that even if superb quality, may stand out as a 'feature' piece - just looking odd.

I have stained plywood myself by mixing very cheap brown iron oxide power with sanding sealer - but I don't know if this would stand up long term outside and look nice.

spruce-staining-opinions-t97940.html

 

[Br1an]

Thanks for the input. Whatever solution I use needs to be flush otherwise the dogs destroy it. Did wonder about delamination but thought sealing it might help but probably not! Never mind I'll look around and think of something else. Cheers