What is OSB?
OSB is a widely used, versatile engineered wood panel made using waterproof heat-cured adhesives and rectangularly shaped wood strands that are arranged in cross-oriented layers. It is similar in strength and performance as plywood, resisting deflection, warping and distortion.
How is OSB made?
OSB is made from wood strands 8 to 15 centimetres long. It uses the whole tree and makes use of crooked, knotty and deformed trees that would otherwise go unused. In BC, OSB is made from abundant, small diameter poplar and aspen trees. As strands, they are mixed with waterproof resin and interleaved together in thick mats, which are then bonded together under heat and pressure. BC manufacturers use a variety of different fabrication processes to deliver a spectrum of OSB products. The result is solid, uniform building panels, with enhanced features, and high strength and water resistance.
In Canada, OSB panels are manufactured to meet the requirements of the Canadian Standards Association. This standard sets performance ratings (grades) for specific end uses such as floor, roof and wall sheathing in light-frame wood construction. In addition, design values for OSB construction sheathing are listed in CSA O86, allowing for engineering design of roof sheathing, wall sheathing and floor sheathing using OSB conforming to CSA O325 .
What is OSB used for?
BC manufacturers produce a range of OSB products for structure and non-structural uses. As a lightweight, strong and versatile wood product it can be used for roof, wall and floor sheathing. It is also sometimes used as the web material for prefabricated I-joists and a skin material for structural insulated panels. As a strong, stable panel it generally won’t warp and will resist wind and seismic loads. Other uses of BC-made OSB include RV fabrication and cargo-van panels, pallets, industrial containers, marine applications and furniture manufacturing.
Will OSB burn rot or mold?
OSB can be chemically treated to improve resistance to decay or to fire. It is water-resistant when treated correctly with resins. OSB manufacturers must test their products to determine the effects of fire retardants, or any other chemicals.
How does OSB compare to other products?
Similar to plywood, OSB is often a go-to product and preferred for its many common uses. OSB can be fabricated into panel that are larger than plywood. Compared to plywood, OSB is heavier and swells more when wet, especially at panel edges, retaining water longer than plywood. Regardless of their differences, OSB and plywood are comparable products fabricated to meet the same standards of strength and structural performance. Nonetheless OSB provides exceptional light-weight strength and durability.
