Oriented Strand Board (OSB): The Building Material Revolution

What is OSB?

Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is a versatile and reliable building material composed of rectangular-shaped wood strands arranged in layers at right angles to one another. These layers are laid up into mats that form a robust panel, bonded together with waterproof adhesives. The cross orientation of OSB panels ensures they are strong and stiff in both directions, making them a valuable resource in modern construction. Unlike similar products, OSB contains no laps, gaps, or voids, ensuring uniformity and reliability.

Applications of OSB

OSB has a wide array of applications including:

• Subflooring: Providing a solid base for the floors of residential and commercial buildings.
• Single-layer Flooring: Offering a strong, cost-effective solution for floor construction.
• Wall and Roof Sheathing: Creating exterior envelope components with exceptional strength and moisture resistance.
• Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs): Forming core elements of energy-efficient wall and roof systems.
• Webs for Wood I-Joists: Adding strength and rigidity to engineered wooden beams used in floors and roofs.

Setting the Record Straight

When the Smiths’ house was being built, neighbors questioned the use of what appeared to be particleboard on the roof. Upon closer inspection, it was confirmed that this was Oriented Strand Board (OSB), a material considered by many experts and builders to be superior to plywood of the same thickness.

Frequently Asked Questions About OSB

What is OSB made of?

OSB is made from rectangular-shaped wood strands assembled in layers and bonded together using waterproof adhesives. The arrangement of these strands at right angles ensures high durability and strength.

Is OSB better than plywood?

Both OSB and plywood have their advantages. OSB is generally more cost-effective and equally strong in both directions. It is also free of laps and voids. However, plywood has a good overall durability especially for long-term exposure to moisture.

Can OSB be used outdoors?

Yes, OSB can be used outdoors, particularly in construction projects where it forms part of walls, roofs, and floors. However, it should be properly protected with moisture barriers and treated if it is to be exposed to the elements for prolonged periods.

What types of construction projects benefit the most from using OSB?

OSB is particularly beneficial in projects that require uniformity, strength, and cost-efficiency. It is commonly used in residential and commercial buildings for subflooring, wall and roof sheathing, and creating structured insulated panels.

How does the cost of OSB compare to that of other building materials?

OSB is generally less expensive than plywood and other comparative building materials still offering robust performance and strength, making it a favorite among builders aiming to balance quality and cost.

Related Terms: particleboard, flakeboard, chipboard, plywood, wood I-joists.