Chipboard can be classified by the manufacturing process, the number of layers formed in the board's thickness, the density of the chips, the type of surface and by a simple grading system.

Platten press and extrusion are the two manufacturing processes used. Most of the chipboard available to the do it yourselfer is produced by the former method. This in turn is classified according to its composition.

Single layer board has a uniform, usually low, density throughout and all the chips are of one size. The surface finish is generally rough.

Three layer chipboard, which is more common, has a layer of large, medium density chips sandwiched between layers of fine, high density wood chips. This gives a much better surface with greater flexing strength.

Multi-layer boards have similar properties to those of three layer boards but in this case a high density core gives even better flexing strength.

Graded density chipboard is a kind of single layer board with dense chips on the outer surfaces to give a smoother finish.

To make buying easier, chipboard for do it yourself use may be sold according to a simple grading system. Standard grade is a general purpose board for joinery and construction in dry conditions. Flooring grade is a smoother, high quality board with extra strength for use over floor joists and concrete slabs, and is frequently produced with tongued and grooved edges. Moisture resistant grade is the most expensive and is suitable for use in damp conditions.

[edit] Finishes

One of the greatest advantages of chipboard is the wide range of finishes available. Apart from the standard plain finish, the most common are fine chip, melamine faced usually white or imitation wood grain and wood veneer. The veneered finishes may be whitewood pine, teak, oak, sapele or mahogany though this may vary from supplier to supplier.

Patterned and coloured plastic laminated board comes in some unusual styles but can be expensive. Vinyl foil faced boards are decorative and easy to maintain.

Ideal for the handyman short of time are ready to paint boards, pre­pared and pre-filled, which the manufacturers claim can be finished with only one coat of paint. Pre-painted boards on one or both surfaces are also available.

Among the heavy duty specialist boards that may be available are pre-felted boards for roofing, moisture resistant and fire resistant ones.