There is a vital difference between Plywood and OSB panels and sheathing that are classified as ‘Exterior’ and ‘Exposure 1’. Utilizing the wrong panels or sheathing could compromise the structure which is exposed to weather. The classifications are based on material composition as well as the durability of the adhesives utilized in the manufacturing process.
Overdriven fasteners can affect the shear capacity. Here are the important things to look for and if necessary corrective actions required as outlined by the APA.
While swelling or buckling of sheathing panels doesn’t affect their performance or strength, it can cause blemishes in the building’s appearance that will lead to callbacks.
Did your wall sheathing get wet? Well, best listen to the Ol’ Sage Builder regarding the maximum moisture content before closing up your walls.
Stringent new building codes require improved efficiency of building envelopes through better insulation. While more expensive insulation methods, like spray foam, may have greater R-values, it is possible to meet the required high R-values using less expensive fibreglass or cellulose insulation with a raised heel truss.
Unventilated attics can help to mitigate energy loss through leaky ducts or ceiling fittings. The energy savings touted by unvented attics can be as high as 20%. However, if moisture is able to enter the unvented attic space, it may lead to roofing panel issues.
When installing structural panels, you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also liaise with your design professional and consult The Engineered Wood Association (APA) guide E30V which you can download here. We have included some tips to keep in mind when installing OSB wood structural panels.
Insulation can improve a home’s energy efficiency, but the efficacy of insulation is dependant on how it’s installed. Insulation products can only perform optimally if they are installed perfectly. Batt insulation, for example, will only achieve its R-value when it isn’t compressed. This occurs most often in roof assemblies where conventional trusses meet the exterior …
The question comes up quite often about formaldehyde and OSB so I will try to bring some clarity to the subject with some background information and what products are affected. The US Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Products Act was signed in 2010. It was based on the Air Toxic Control Measure that was developed …
“Energy Savings Start With The Framing.” As energy codes become more stringent and homeowners demand higher performing homes, designers are looking at innovative ways to improve the efficacy of their building envelopes. Insulated headers can really help to improve the R-value and provide wall cavity space for insulation. ASHRAE estimates that at least 4 percent of the wall assembly consists of headers. If 4 percent of your wall is not properly insulated, your energy envelope will not be performing at its best.
