Plywood or OSB?
Both OSB and plywood are made by gluing and pressing wood together, although the process of doing so differs considerably.
Builder Insights / Blog
Tag / Plywood
On-site Wood Panel Storage Guidelines
The APA Engineered Wood Association provides comprehensive guidelines for the storage of wood panels on site. Correct on-site storage will allow plywood and OSB wood panels to acclimatize to conditions on the building and prevent a plethora of framing problems down the line. The APA outlines several guidelines on the correct storage of panels to minimize the conditions that can lead to buckling and ridging; after all you’re protecting your investment.
Sub-floor Adhesives Prevent Squeaky Floors
The success of your flooring installation will be determined by the techniques you employ when installing your sub-flooring. When installing OSB or plywood sub-flooring panels, use a PL400 adhesive to prevent squeaky floors.
Underlayment Installation Tips
If you are laying sheet vinyl or vinyl tiles over your subfloor, a layer of subfloor underlayment will need to be installed. It’s imperative that your underlayment is installed correctly and remains pristine; any dents, bumps, nails or edges will show through the flooring. There are some tricks you can employ to ensure that your underlayment layer is properly installed.
Plywood or OSB Panels: Which is better?
Both OSB and plywood wood panels can be used for wall sheeting, sub-flooring panels and roof panels, but OSB has some advantages
Types of Subfloors you Can Use under Hardwood Flooring
While you should always adhere to the manufacturer’s installation instructions, there are some general guidelines provided by the NWFA that apply to most subflooring installations. There are a number of subflooring options available and you can speak with your design professional to find one that suits your climate, needs and budget.
Correct Panel Spacing prevents Buckling
Plywood and OSB paneling expands and contracts as it adjusts to the moisture content of the building site. Unrestrained by fastening and framing, panels can move an average of 1/8 inch as they acclimatize. Correct spacing of panels will help to make allowances for expansion and prevent buckling of walls, floors and roofs and gaps in the building envelope that will compromise energy efficiency. “Energy savings start with the framing.”