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Quakezone

QuakeZone is the Faster and Smarter way to frame

In this labor market, builders and framers need wall sheathing that allows them to build faster while meeting code. QuakeZone® Precision End Trimmed (PET) wall sheathing is precut for the way you frame, allowing you to build faster and increase productivity.

You purchase precision end trimmed studs at specific lengths because they save you time and increases productivity. Now you can buy quality wall sheathing pre-trimmed to the lengths you need, and like studs, only pay for the length you need. West Fraser’s QuakeZone accelerates construction because framers simply nail it in with minimal cutting, handling and waste.

Features and Benefits

  • Reduce cutting, handling and excess waste
  • Save time and increase productivity with pre-trimmed wall sheathing at the length you need
  • QuakeZone installs vertically—removing the need for blocking and filler strips
  • Eliminating the blocking improves the performance of your wall insulation by reducing thermal bridging
  • By eliminating horizontal joints, you can reduce wall air leakage by up to 60%
  • In seismic or high-wind markets, QuakeZone can provide a continuous load path which may reduce or eliminate the cost and labor of installing metal hardware
  • No added urea-formaldehyde resins, CARB exempt
  • The QuakeZone lengths accommodate wall heights, joist depths, slab or raised floor, single or multi-story construction

The Perfect Wall sheathing Partner for Raised Heel Trusses.

QuakeZone structural sheathing can be used with up to 24″ raised heel truss systems (see APA Product Report PR-N133 for details)

For detailed information on lengths available in your region, see downloads below. Custom lengths can be accommodated for larger projects.

Get the Quakezone info for your area

Download our PDF sell sheet below for your location and get all the details. Click below:

Denver – Utah – Nebraska – Wyoming

Want More? Check out the video

Colorado Video
Utah Video

PRE-CUT LENGTHS FOR THE WAY YOU FRAME

QuakeZone has got builders talking

Check out our interviews with actual wall panelizers and stick builders talking about West Fraser’s innovative QuakeZone Wall Sheathing.

with Neil Pinkham from Precision Building Systems on location in Denver Colorado.

with Mike Donohoe from Donohoe Builders on location in Boulder Colorado.

Wall Sheathing

  • Sizes / Lengths:
    110-7/16, 122-7/16, 134-7/16
  • Thickness:
    7/16
  • Edge Seal Color:
    Turquoise
  • Warranty:
    25 Year Limited Warranty
Have any questions regarding this product?
Contact us today.

  • Product Documents

  • FAQ

    1. How does using QuakeZone® wall sheathing help reduce air leakage?
    2. Does cutting QuakeZone around windows and doors make the wall stronger?
    3. Is QuakeZone CARB exempt?
    4. What is special about QuakeZone and how does it work?
    5. Is QuakeZone accepted by the building codes?
    6. You say that blocking is eliminated, why?
    7. Why do I need a design professional to provide a fastener schedule?
    8. Can QuakeZone wall sheathing be used with Raised-heel (Energy) trusses?
    9. What are some of the benefits of using QuakeZone over 4×8 wall sheathing?
    10. What does Exposure 1 rating on the grade stamp mean?
    11. Where can I buy QuakeZone?
    12. Are there special requirements for a stucco exterior finish?

    How does using QuakeZone® wall sheathing help reduce air leakage?

    QuakeZone is installed vertically and is available in the perfect length that allows all edges to be on framing members and a connection between the bottom and top plates. This eliminates the unnecessary horizontal joints and reduces wall air leakage.
    Top

    Does cutting QuakeZone around windows and doors make the wall stronger?

    Cutting QuakeZone around window and door openings instead of cutting and piecing parts together adds strength to the wall. Drywall cracks occur most often at corners of windows and door openings. Cutting out openings from the sheathing not only adds strength but reduces the number of joints that allow air leakage and reduces labor time.
    Top

    Is QuakeZone CARB exempt?

    Yes, QuakeZone is CARB (California Air Resource Board) exempt and does not contain any urea-formaldehyde resins.
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    What is special about QuakeZone and how does it work?

    QuakeZone is available in various pre-cut lengths for the way homes are framed in your market. QuakeZone lengths can accommodate various wall heights, joist depths, slab or raised floor, single or multi-story construction. Installed vertically, it makes a connection for a continuous load path between the top and bottom plates which eliminates blocking and air leakage and may reduce metal hardware.
    Top

    Is QuakeZone accepted by the building codes?

    QuakeZone is a structural OSB wall sheathing panel and is accepted by North American building codes.
    Top

    You say that blocking is eliminated, why?

    Some building codes require all horizontal joints in the wall sheathing to have a solid backing. Because QuakeZone is installed vertically and is available in longer pre-cut lengths which connect the bottom and top plates, this eliminates the horizontal mid-wall joints which means no blocking is required.
    Top

    Why do I need a design professional to provide a fastener schedule?

    In most markets the local building code fastener requirements can be used. In high wind or seismic areas, a design professional’s fastener schedule may be required because the design, type of structure and the physical location of the house is unique. Differences such as size, shape, wall height, roof pitch etc. all need to be taken into consideration when determining the shear and uplift loads caused by wind or seismic events. Design professionals can make these necessary calculations and determine the correct fastener pattern.
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    Can QuakeZone wall sheathing be used with Raised-heel (Energy) trusses?

    Yes, QuakeZone can be a great partner for raised-heel trusses. Depending on you wall heights, choose a length that will go above the top plates into the heel of the trusses. Some trimming may be required depending on the heel height.
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    What are some of the benefits of using QuakeZone over 4×8 wall sheathing?

    There are many benefits to using QuakeZone wall sheathing over traditional 4×8’s installed horizontally.

    • Eliminates the need to block which saves time and money
    • Horizontal joints are eliminated which reduces wall air leakage
    • Less waste, less cutting and less chance of errors
    • QuakeZone provides a continuous load path
    • Builders may be able to reduce or eliminate the added cost and labor of installing metal hardware
    • Open bays allow for installation, HVAC, plumbing and electrical to be installed faster with fewer obstructions

    Top

    What does Exposure 1 rating on the grade stamp mean?

    Exposure 1 rating means that the panel uses a waterproof resin. It does not mean the panel is waterproof but rather that the panel can withstand normal delays in construction without affecting the structural properties (strength) of the panel. All QuakeZone wall sheathing carries the APA (The Engineered Wood Association) grand stamp.
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    Where can I buy QuakeZone?

    Quakezone is available in the Western USA.
    Top

    Are there special requirements for a stucco exterior finish?

    If Stucco is the exterior finish siding please refer to the APA (The Engineered Wood Assoc) Q370 for structural sheathing thickness and grade recommendations. You should also refer to applicable local building codes for proper stucco installation over OSB or plywood sheathing.
    Top

  • Installation

    West Fraser QuakeZone® wall panels are to be installed according to the APA’s (The Engineered Wood Association) Construction Guide E30 and the appropriate building codes.

    • All QuakeZone panels must be spaced 1/8” apart along all edges
    • Be sure all studs are even, square and level before installing any wall sheathing
    • Install QuakeZone panels to overlap the joist area and the top plates. This significantly increases the wall capacity, stiffness and displacement
    • Fastener spacing** (Minimum typical spacing is 6” o.c. along edges and 12” o.c. in the field. However, it is important that you follow your local building codes)
    • Fasteners must be 3/8” in from panel edges and corners
    • Check for “shiners” (nails or fasteners which have missed their wood connection) and refasten or add additional fasteners if needed
    • It is recommended that panels acclimatize to surrounding environmental conditions for at least 24 hours prior to installation
    • Span ratings, durability and mill identification are shown in the grade stamp
    • Add strength to your walls by cutting the sheathing around windows and doors instead of using the cut and paste method. This reduces the number of joints and air leakage
    • QuakeZone is for wall application only
    • If Stucco is the exterior finish siding please refer to the APA (The Engineered Wood Assoc) Q370 for structural sheathing thickness and grade recommendations. You should also refer to applicable local building codes for proper stucco installation over OSB or plywood sheathing.

    ** Consult your local building codes for requirements and specifications.

Controlling Against Moisture Damage for Wall Sheathing

Moisture can cause many structural problems and create a very unhealthy home for your family when mold and mildew begin to form. Building a home that deals effectively with moisture requires due diligence from design to installation and on to…

Does OSB emit Volatile Organic Compounds?

We recently received a message from one of our readers, and the Ol Sage thought he would pass it along as it is important to be concerned about Volatile Organic Compounds.

THANK A FRAMER

Join our national salute to America's framers. Click here to watch the video.

How-to videos

Check out our helpful DIY videos and learn a variety of installation tips and tricks that will make you the best builder on the site.

All Product documents

Looking for a warranty form, safety sheet, or perhaps even a promotional brochure? Find them all here!