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Oriented Strand Board
Oriented Strand Board
Oriented Strand Board
WAIVER OF RESPONSIBILITY
Every effort has been taken to ensure that the information published in
this manual is accurate and as complete as possible. The Structural
Board Association does not, however, assume responsibility for errors or
omissions in this publication, nor for any designs or specifications based
on it. It is the specifier’s and/or user’s responsibility to obtain the
necessary approvals and inspections from the local building officials.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
SBA committed its technical resources and engaged the services of Quaile Engineering Ltd. and
Kwik Kopy Design & Print Centre. We would also like to acknowledge the participation of several
industry reviewers who ensured the completeness of this manual. Cover photos courtesy of
Cloverdale Truss Co. Ltd. (Surrey, BC) and Weyerhaeuser Canada Ltd. (Edmonton, AB).
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Oriented Strand Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
1.2 Research Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
4.0 Properties
4.1 Physical and Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
4.2 Other Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
i
Figure 1 OSB Manufacturing Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Table 8 Recommended Floor Sheathing Systems for Ceramic Tile Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Table 9 Maximum Allowable Loads for Rated OSB Roof Sheathing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Table 10 Factored Shear Resistance for OSB Shearwalls with S-P-F Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Table 11 Factored Shear Resistance for OSB Diaphragms with S-P-F Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
ii
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1
2.0 MANUFACTURING PROCESS
(A) Random Waferboard (B) OSB with aligned face (C) OSB with aligned face
and oriented core and random core
2
Quality control personnel regularly inspect panel faces, Modern mills are scientifically designed to meet or
edges, dimensions after trimming and the physical exceed the strict quality standard for air emissions by
appearance of the finished panel. They also undertake using collectors, precipitators, scrubbers or regenerative
physical testing of the panels according to standard test thermal oxidation units to remove particulate and volatile
procedures as necessary to verify that production organic compounds from the discharge gases released
conforms to the applicable standard and mill into the atmosphere. Where log soaking ponds are
specification. Besides company process and quality used, the water is filtered and the ponds are self
control, manufacturers grademarking to CSA O325 or cleaning. The mills are designed to be self sufficient in
exporting to the U.S. are required to have independent terms of heat energy with all bark, screenings, sawdust
third party inspection and testing to CSA O325.1 and /or and panel trim recycled as fuel for the dryer and the
the U.S. Performance Standard PS 2 by an approved press heating system.
certification agency, another assurance that quality is
maintained. Like construction plywood, OSB panels are bonded
under heat and pressure with phenol formaldehyde or
2.4 OSB and the Environment isocyanate binders that become durable, insoluble heat-
resistant polymers that resist age, moisture and chemical
Oriented Strand Board is generally manufactured from degradation. Regular tests confirm formaldehyde
aspen in the northern part of North America and emissions from phenolic-bonded OSB panels are
southern yellow pine in the south. However, other nonexistent or negligible. However, freshly sawn OSB
hardwood and softwood species or combinations may may have the distinctive odour of freshly cut wood of the
also be used. Aspen and northern hardwoods are same species.
harvested from naturally regenerated self-sustaining
stands. Southern yellow pine is harvested from SBA also provides a generic Material Safety Data Sheet
managed private stands and includes thinnings. The (MSDS) for OSB and waferboard, and other technical
manufacturing process uses most of the log and modern information on the binder system. Manufacturers are
mills typically convert the remaining bark, saw trim, and also required by WHMIS to issue statements about wood
sawdust into energy. dust.
3
3.0 OSB PRODUCTS
The nominal thicknesses of CSA O437.0 OSB and waferboard are as follows:
Grade O-2 (mm) 6.0 7.5 9.5 11.0 12.0 12.5 15.0 15.5 18.0 19.0
Grade O-1, R-1 (mm) 6.35 7.9 9.5 11.1 – 12.7 – 15.9 – 19.0
Imperial (in.) 1/4 5/16 3/8 7/16 15/32 1/2 19/32 5/8 23/32 3/4
4
3.4 U.S. Standard PS 2
SBA members’ OSB production is generally intended for also be shown)
use in both the United States and Canada. As a result - The direction of face alignment
OSB panels are typically manufactured to meet both the - The date code
U.S. Department of Commerce Voluntary Performance - The certification agency logo
Standard PS 2 “Performance Standard for Wood Based - The words Exterior Bond or Exterior Type Binder
Structural Use Panels” and CSA Standard O325.0
“Construction Sheathing”. PS 2 was a joint development Some panels may have more than one mark. For
of the U.S. and Canadian wood panel industry to instance some panels are certified to CSA O325.0 and
harmonize the performance standards under the PS 2, in which case the panel mark will contain
U.S./Canada Free Trade Agreement. The standard was information required by both standards.
promulgated by the U.S. Congress in August 1992. A
second edition is due for publication in 2004. CSA Standard O437.0 requires that all OSB and
waferboard panels made in conformance with this
As shown in Table 2 the performance requirements of standard be clearly marked with the following information:
PS 2 and CSA O325.0 are quite similar. PS 2 has higher
strength requirements for wall sheathing and also - The manufacturer’s name or logo and Mill Number
includes racking tests for wall and roof panels when used - The designation CSA O437.0
as shearwalls or diaphragms. - The words Exterior Bond or EXT. BOND
- The appropriate grade mark R-1, O-1, O-2
The span ratings shown on the PS 2 OSB panel markings - The nominal thickness in mm
consist of two numbers separated by a slash e.g. 24/16. - The direction of orientation if O-1 or O-2 grade
The left-hand number shows the maximum support - THIS SIDE DOWN on the back of T and G panels
spacing for roof sheathing and the right-hand number
gives the maximum support spacing for floor sheathing in Panels manufactured to CSA O437 may have edge and
inches. PS 2 panels for single floors (combination end defects that can be eliminated by cutting back the
subfloor and underlayment) have a single number panel so that the remaining panel size meets the
followed by the letters OC e.g. 20 OC. This means the requirements of the standard. These panels are marked
maximum support spacing is 20 inches (500 mm) on SHOP PANELS and are suitable for many uses in the
centre and edge blocking or tongue and groove edges reduced size. SBA member mills provide 2.6 square
are required. metres of usable panel in each shop panel.
3.5 Panel Marking Panels not meeting the requirements of either CSA
standard or the U.S. Standard are marked REJECT - ALL
CSA O325.0 panels are required to be marked with the OTHER MARKS VOID. These panels are not suitable for
following information (see Figure 3 for examples): building construction.
- The manufacturer’s name or logo and Mill Number Panels manufactured for export sale are also marked with
- The designation CSA O325.0 stamps required by the importing country. In addition,
- The panel mark denoting the span rating and end use each panel must be marked with Made in Canada either
- The nominal thickness in mm (inch equivalents may on the face or edge.
5
4.0 PROPERTIES
• Length and width, from stated dimensions +0, +0, +0, +0, +0, +0,
-4 mm -5/32” -4 mm -5/32” -4 mm -5/32”
• Straightness, maximum deviation from straight 1.5 mm/ 1/16”/ 1.5 mm/ 1/16”/ 1.5 mm/ 1/16”/
edge edge edge edge edge edge
• Thickness2
• panel average from nominal ±0.75 mm ±0.030” ±0.75 mm ±0.030” ±0.75 mm ±0.030”
• within panel from panel average ±0.75 mm ±0.030” ±0.75 mm ±0.030” ±0.75 mm ±0.030”
• Modulus of rupture - parallel 29.0 MPa 4200 psi 23.4 MPa 3400 psi 17.2 MPa 2500 psi
• Modulus of rupture - perpendicular 12.4 MPa 1800 psi 9.6 MPa 1400 psi 17.2 MPa 2500 psi
• Modulus of elasticity - parallel 5500 MPa 800,000 psi 4500 MPa 650,000 psi 3100 MPa 450,000 psi
• Modulus of elasticity - perpendicular 1500 MPa 225,000 psi 1300 MPa 190,000 psi 3100 MPa 450,000 psi
• Internal bond 0.345 MPa 50 psi 0.345 MPa 50 psi 0.345 MPa 50 psi
• Lateral nail resistance (t = thickness 70t (N) 400t (lb) 70t (N) 400t (lb) 70t (N) 400t (lb)
of panel, mm or inches as appropriate)
• Modulus of rupture - parallel - after 2 hr boil 14.5 MPa 2100 psi 11.7 MPa 1700 psi 8.6 MPa 1250 psi
• Modulus of rupture - perp - after 2 hr boil 6.2 MPa 900 psi 4.8 MPa 700 psi 8.6 MPa 1250 psi
Notes:
1. Minimum requirements (maximum where stated) are based on a 5-panel average, with no single panel more than 20% below (or above as
appropriate) the stated requirement.
2. Tolerances are for rough/sized boards. Tolerances for sanded panels are ±0.40mm for variation from nominal, and ±0.25mm for within panel
variation from panel average.
3. Grade R-1 is for waferboard, which is only produced by one Canadian mill.
4. These values are not for design purposes.
6
Table 2. Performance Requirements for CSA O325.0 and PS 2 OSB
• Thickness tolerance, panels ≤ 13/16” (20.5 mm) 1.5 mm range 1 1/16” range 1 ± 0.80 mm ± 1/32”
panels > 13/16” (20.5 mm) 1.5 mm range 1 1/16” range 1 5% of the thickness
• Length and width tolerance, from stated dimensions +0, -4 mm +0”, -5/32” +0, -3.2 mm +0”, -1/8”
• Straightness tolerance, maximum deviation from straight 1.5 mm 1/16” 1.6 mm 1/16”
(corner to corner)
• combined subfloor/underlayment to
24” spacing
- static 2.45 kN 550 lb 2.45 kN 550 lb
- following impact 1.78 kN 400 lb 1.78 kN 400 lb
• combined subfloor/underlayment
32” to 48” spacing
- static 3.12 kN 700 lb 3.12 kN 700 lb
- following impact 1.78 kN 400 lb 1.78 kN 400 lb
• Maximum deflection under 0.89 kN load varies with application varies with application
Notes:
1. Tolerance is -0.5 mm to +1.0 mm if minimum thickness < nominal thickness, -0 to +1.5 mm if minimum thickness = nominal thickness.
2. Span is the centre to centre spacing of supports.
3. Requirements are minimum except where noted otherwise.
4. These values are not for design purposes.
5. In PS 2, for 1200 mm spacing, panels are performance tested at 3.83 kPa loading.
7
4.2 Other Properties
Other properties of OSB may be summarized as follows: OSB also takes all kinds of stain finishes as well.
However, stains do not offer as much surface protection
Workability from the weather as paints and the lifting of an
OSB is easy to saw, drill, nail, plane, file or sand. It occasional strand may occur. Stains are more often
contains wood, fully cured waterproof and boil proof resin applied to fences, summer cottages and other
adhesive and a small amount of wax. Use normal applications that accept a more rustic appearance.
carpentry tools, but carbide tipped blades are
recommended for prolonged use. Wear appropriate Sanded panels present a marble-like appearance and
safety protection and follow safe working procedures. they are less textured than unsanded panels. As
As wood dust has been designated as a potential varnishes, stains and paints penetrate the sanded panels
carcinogen, avoid exposure to airborne dust particles more quickly than the unsanded, two coats of primer or
and keep work areas free of dust build-up. A material sealer are recommended before application of the finish
Safety Data Sheet is available from the SBA office system. When applying paint or varnish, sand the
covering wood dust. surfaces lightly between coats; do not sand stained
surfaces.
As full-size panels have a factory applied edge coating,
job cut panels likely to be exposed to the weather should Weight
have uncoated edges protected by a field coat of paint or The approximate weight of OSB panels can be
by sheathing paper to reduce moisture pick-up. calculated from Table 4. These values are based on a
density of 640kg/m 3 (40 lb/ft3). Density may vary
Nailability depending on the manufacturer and moisture conditions
The many interleaved layers create panels with good nail at the time of shipment.
holding properties. Nails can be driven as close as 6mm
from the panel edges without risk of splitting or breaking Thermal Resistance
out. However, the Association recommends an edge The thermal resistance of a material is a measure of the
distance of 10mm for structural applications. Extensive resistance it offers to the passage of conducted heat at a
tests undertaken by research establishments show steady rate. It is proportional to the density and
fastener performance is similar for all structural wood thickness of the material. Table 4 provides thermal
panels. In addition both CSA O437.0 and CSA O325.0 resistance values for various thicknesses of OSB.
specify minimum nail holding capability for OSB. When
using power actuated nailers do not overdrive nails, Permeability
make sure eye protection is worn and follow safe The permeability of a wood panel is the rate that
working procedures. moisture passes through the panel under stated
conditions of moisture vapour pressure. It is inversely
Gluability proportional to the density, degree of orientation and
OSB may be glued with any adhesive recommended for thickness of the panel. Vapour permeance values for
wood. For strong bonds, lightly sand the surfaces in the OSB panels are given in Table 4.
areas to be glued. For more information on glued joints
contact the SBA office. Fire Performance
OSB has been tested to determine fire endurance and
Paintability flame spread ratings by both SBA and APA. These tests
OSB may be finished with any good quality paint system have been undertaken by third party agencies using
recommended for wood. For best results the surface recognized fire test laboratories. The test results show
must be primed or sealed before painting. that OSB panels, like plywood, may be used as exterior
sheathing on outside walls required to have a fire rating.
For exterior applications, the best finish is a good quality However, code authorities may require that stud spaces
exterior wood paint system (primer and top coat) applied be filled with non-combustible insulation such as rock
according to the paint manufacturer’s directions. Solid wool when structural wood panels are used on these
colour paints provide the best weather protection for the walls. Structural wood panels are permitted to be
panel surface and the strands show a pleasing texture. installed between the framing and the fire-resistive
A top quality acrylic latex exterior paint and companion covering in walls provided the length of the fastener used
primer specifically designated by the manufacturer as to attach the fire protection is increased by an amount at
‘stain blocking’ or ‘stain resistant’ are recommended. least equal to the thickness of the wood panel.
8
Moisture Performance
OSB like all wood products reacts to changes in moisture represented by a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and
and humidity conditions. OSB is required by North 65 percent relative humidity. This condition is typical of
American Standards to maintain its strength and stiffness protected construction. In addition, OSB is required to
performance under normal humidity conditions, also maintain its strength and stiffness performance when
referred to as “standard conditions”, which are exposed to weather during long construction delays.
CSA O325.0 PS 2
Loading Application Minimum ultimate load (N) 3 Minimum ultimate load (N) 3
Notes:
1. Nails are 51mm for sheathing less than or equal to 12.7mm, 63mm for thicker panels.
2. Comparison studies (University of Illinois) have shown the equivalent performance of OSB and plywood in lateral and withdrawal resistance of nails.
3. These values are not for design purposes. Additional information regarding shearwalls and diaphragms is given in Tables 10 & 11.
4. Not applicable for wall sheathing.
Notes:
1. These numbers are average test values obtained by APA, The Engineered Wood Association on several thicknesses of OSB.
2. Panel thicknesses greater than 15.5 mm were not tested, but can be assumed to provide a permeability resistance equal to or better than that of
15.5 mm panels. Vapour permeance values are given for 50% relative humidity (R.H)., and increase slightly with increasing R.H.
9
5.0 RESIDENTIAL AND LOW RISE COMMERCIAL INSTALLATION
The following sections present installation instructions for combination subfloor and underlayment and do not
OSB sheathing in residential and low rise commercial require an additional layer. The edges of all panels must
construction. The information is based on Part 9 of the have tongue and groove joints or be supported with
NBCC and is generally applicable to the provincial 38x38 mm blocking securely nailed between framing
building codes. members.
5.1 Floor Sheathing Panels must be installed with the direction of face grain
at right angles to the joists (OSB panels have the face
Figure 4 provides the recommended installation details grain direction marked on the panel). They should be
for floor sheathing along with the maximum support laid across three or more supports keeping the side
spacing for the various grades. marked “this side down” on the supports when using
T&G panels. End joints must be made over the supports
The 2F sheathing is intended to have an additional layer and should be staggered at least two supports. Subfloor
of structural material such as an underlayment panel, sheathing panels should have a 3 mm (1/8”) gap on all
wood strip flooring applied at right angles to the joists, or sides and ends.
concrete topping. The 1F sheathing panels are used as
Stagger panel
end joints
Joists or Trusses
Note: In crawl spaces
provide adequate
ventilation and cover
ground with moisture
barrier.
Subfloor Requirements
CSA O437.0 OSB/Waferboard CSA O325.0 OSB
Minimum thickness Minimum Panel Mark
Notes:
1. Permitted with wood panel underlayment or concrete topping except when finished flooring consists of ceramic tile applied with an adhesive.
2. Panels shall have tongue and groove edges or have edges blocked by minimum 38x38 mm blocking securely nailed between framing members.
3. Some jurisdictions allow 22.5 mm (7/8”) thick O-2 grade panels on 800 mm (32”) joist spacing. These panels are marked 1F32.
4. If OSB subfloor is flooded due to ponding, it is recommended that several holes be drilled in pond area so that water will drain from floor.
5. For hardwood flooring recommendations refer to Section 5.1.4
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5.1.1 Fastening for Floor Sheathing
Table 5 contains the recommended fastening methods for joists and the sheathing, which stiffens the floor and
OSB floor sheathing. Standard nail sizes and lengths are reduces vibration. In fact, many new engineered floor joist
given in Table 6. For improved performance SBA products such as I-joists can be installed on longer spans
recommends the use of wood screws rather than nails. when the subfloor is glued. Use elastomeric glues
conforming to CGSB Standard 71.26-M88 or ASTM
The performance of any floor system can be enhanced, if standard D3498. Special attention should be given to the
in addition to the normal nailing, the sheathing panel is connection between the bottom plate of non-load bearing
glued to the supporting joists with an elastomeric partition walls and the subfloor panel. SBA recommends
adhesive and the tongue and groove edges glued that the subfloor be screwed to the bottom plate of the wall.
together. The glue creates composite action between the
Greater than 20 mm thick - 57 mm (2-1/4”) spiral nail, 150 mm (6”) oc at panel edges
- 51 mm (2”) ring thread 300 mm (12”) o/c along intermediate supports
nails or screws 5
Notes:
1. Common nails conforming to CSA B111 “Wire Nails, Spikes and Staples” are permitted in place of spiral nails, but generally have less withdrawal
resistance. For power driven nails or staples used in all types of building construction, consult NER 272 issued by ICC–ES to ISANTA (www.icc-es.org).
2. Nails should be 10 mm (3/8”) minimum from panel edge.
3. Other equivalent fastening schedules may be used.
4. In high wind areas closer spacing may be necessary to offset wind uplift forces.
5. Flooring screws shall be not less than 3.2 mm in diameter, and should conform to ANSI B18.6.1 “Slotted and Recessed Wood Screws”.
6. Staples can be 38 mm long for OSB panels up to 10 mm thick.
11
Figure 1 OSB Manufacturing Process
Blending Drying
Wet Bins
Stranding
Note: 1. 18.0 mm (23/32”) thick panels are recommended for best performance.
14
5.1.5 Ceramic Tile
Table 8 provides the minimum recommended floor of the floor. Some jurisdictions require blocking between
sheathing systems for ceramic or other tiles. For good the floor joists in high traffic areas when ceramic tile is
performance it is important that the floor system be as installed over OSB or plywood. Prohibit traffic on the tile
stiff as possible. Therefore, the use of thicker subfloor until the mortar or adhesive has set in order to avoid
(i.e. 18.0 mm or 1F24) or underlayment along with cracking.
reduced fastener spacing will enhance the performance
Table 8. Recommended Floor Sheathing Systems for Ceramic Tile Flooring 1,2
Minimum Subfloor
Panel Thickness 3 Underlayment Tile Installation
15.5 mm (5/8”) minimum 11.0 mm (7/16”) CBU 4,5 Dry-Set mortar or latex-portland cement mortar
Notes:
1. Based on ANSI Standard A108, specifications of the Tile Council of America, and NBCC.
2. Joist spacing not to exceed 400 mm (16”) oc. Joists should be blocked with solid blocking on 100 mm (4”) centres in high traffic areas.
3. Provide edge support for subfloor.
4. Bond cementitious backer units (CBUs) to subfloor with latex - Portland Cement or epoxy mortar prior to spreading mortar for setting ceramic or other tile.
5. Leave 3 mm (1/8”) space at panel ends and edges. Fill joists with mortar.
6. Leave 6 mm (1/4”) space at panel ends and edges; trim panels as necessary to maintain end spacing and panel support on framing. Fill joints with
epoxy mortar when it is spread for setting tile. With single layer subfloor use solid blocking under all panel ends and edge joints, including tongue
and groove joints.
7. Use No.15 asphalt felt or 4-mil polyethylene sheeting over subfloor. Reinforce mortar with wire mesh.
8. Underlayment or Exterior grade plywood.
15
5.2 Floor Underlayment
Figure 5 provides the recommended installation details for installation of the finished flooring. When underlayment
OSB floor underlayment along with fastener size and type. panels are applied over lumber board subfloors, apply
Sanded 6 mm or greater OSB floor underlayment is panels parallel to joists if boards are perpendicular to
suitable for use under many finished flooring products joists. Underlayment panels may be applied in either
such as: felted-synthetic-fibre or carpet; embossed direction if boards are at an angle less than 75° to joists.
resilient flooring; perimeter glued or loose lay resilient
flooring. For adhesive applied ceramic tile the To fasten, begin nailing or stapling at contact corner of
underlayment must be no less than 11 mm thick if the underlayment panels and work diagonally across panels.
supports are spaced more than 300 mm apart. Make sure the panels are in firm contact with the subfloor
when driving the fasteners. Space nails at 100 mm oc on
Before applying the underlayment thoroughly sweep or panel edges, and 200 mm oc in the centre of the panel.
vacuum clean the subfloor. Reset all popped nails and re- Or use staples at 75 mm oc on panel edges, and 150 mm
nail any loose panels. When underlayment is applied over oc elsewhere. When gluing underlayment to subfloor use
panel subfloors, apply the panels immediately prior to only solvent based glues.
Sanded OSB
underlayment
16
5.3 Roof Sheathing
Figure 6 provides the recommended installation details for panel edges and ends to allow for movement due to
roof sheathing along with the maximum support spacing. changes in humidity. Panels should be staggered at least
two supports and end joints must lie over supports.
Before installing the sheathing, the rafters or upper truss
chord should be checked to assure that they are aligned, Table 5 contains the recommended fastening methods for
straight and even. Curved or uneven rafters or upper truss OSB roof sheathing. The installer should stand over the
chords affect the finished roof appearance. rafter or truss when nailing. Safety Alert: As roof
sheathing may be slippery when wet, covered with frost,
The panels should be installed textured side up with their snow, ice, or sawdust, installers should wear rubber soled
long direction across the rafters or truss chords. Long footwear, use appropriate safety equipment and use
panel edges should be supported or joined with edge clips extreme caution when working on sloping roofs.
where required. A 3 mm (1/8”) gap should be left at the
Warning: Roof sheathing panels may be extremely slippery when wet, covered with frost, snow, ice or sawdust. Installers of roof sheathing should
wear rubber-soled footwear and exercise caution, especially on roof slopes exceeding 4 in 12. Based on recent studies, soles of thermoplastic
rubber provide the best traction of the sole materials tested. Place screened surface of panel face up.
Note: Panels that get wet should be allowed to surface dry before applying shingles. Protect uncoated edges from direct rain exposure.
300 mm - 12” 7.5 mm - 5/16” 9.5 mm - 3/8” 7.5 mm - 5/16” 9.5 mm - 3/8” 2R16 1R16
3
400 mm - 16” 7.5 mm - 5/16” 9.5 mm - 3/8” 9.5 mm - 3/8” 11.1 mm - 7/16” 2R16 1R16
500 mm - 20” 9.5 mm 3 - 3/8” 11.1 mm - 7/16” 12.5 mm - 1/2” 12.7 mm - 1/2” 2R20 1R20
3
600 mm - 24” 9.5 mm - 3/8” 11.1 mm - 7/16” 12.5 mm - 1/2” 12.7 mm - 1/2” 2R24 1R24
Notes:
1. Panel thicknesses and marks apply for pitched roofs; where flat roofs are used as walking decks, the requirements for floors shall apply.
2. Panel edges supported by 38x38 mm blocking, metal H-clips at midspan between framing members, or have tongue and groove edges.
3. For enhanced performance SBA recommends using 9.5 mm in place of 7.5 mm and 11 mm in place of 9.5 mm sheathing.
4. Panels to be minimum 600 mm wide and continuous over two or more spans.
17
5.3.1 Ventilation of Attic and
Cathedral Roof Spaces
In order to minimize the impact of
moisture build-up in attic spaces, it is
essential that adequate ventilation be
installed with 50% of the ventilation at
the roof ridge and 50% at the soffit
area. The NBCC specifies that the
minimum unobstructed vent area equal
not less than 1/300 of the total
insulated ceiling area for roofs with attic
spaces. For roof slopes of less than 1
in 6 or for cathedral ceilings, the free
vent area must equal not less than
1/150 of the insulated area.
The roof should be dry prior to shingling and should be underlayment of ice and water self-adhering protective
shingled as soon as possible after installation of membrane or other heavy waterproofing material must
sheathing. Use baffles to make sure that the insulation be installed from the edge of the exterior wall 900 mm up
does not block ventilation openings especially along the the roof under the shingles to protect the roof sheathing
eaves and between truss chords. Ensure the attic hatch and in all other critical zones where roof leaks commonly
is sealed and bathroom or kitchen fan exhaust ducts are occur (consult with membrane manufacturer for proper
properly vented to the outside. Inadequte ventilation can installation).
be a cause of sheathing panel telegraphing through the
shingles on cold winter days. 5.3.3 Truss Uplift
Truss uplift is a cause of ceiling/wall separation. The
5.3.2 Prevention of Ice Damming ceiling lifts as the truss arches away from the interior
partition. Wood in prefabricated trusses shrinks as it
Ice damming occurs in extreme cold climates and is due
dries and expands when it absorbs moisture. Since the
to heat transfer from the attic space to the shingles
bottom chord of the truss is buried in the attic insulation,
melting the snow during the day time period. At night,
it is warmer and therefore drier than the rest of the truss.
the snow melt freezes. Repeated cycles of freeze/thaw
The top chord is exposed to the damp attic air and will
cause a ridge of ice trapping the snow melt as it flows
be at a higher moisture content than the bottom chord.
down the roof. The snow melt backs up under shingles
As a result, the bottom chord shortens and the top chord
and soaks the sheathing. Rain storms can also threaten
lengthens. This causes the truss to arch and lift the
the integrity of sloped roofs. The effect of ice dams and
bottom chord with the ceiling separating it from the wall.
wind driven rain can be substantial from stained walls or
Proper attic ventilation removes the damp air and
ceilings to severe water damage. A continuous
reduces the chance of truss uplift.
18
5.4 Wall Sheathing
Figure 7 provides the recommended installation details for Part 9 of the NBCC requires that at least one layer of
wall sheathing along with the maximum support spacing. sheathing membrane be applied beneath siding, stucco or
Wall sheathing panels may be installed vertically or masonry veneer. Sheathing membrane may be omitted
horizontally. A 3 mm (1/8”) gap should be left between beneath siding if the joints are formed to effectively
panels and around openings for windows and doors. The prevent the passage of wind and rain. However, the SBA
required fastening for wall sheathing is shown in Table 5. recommends the use of sheathing membrane under any
Blocking or diagonal bracing is generally not required with type of exterior cladding.
OSB sheathing unless specified by the building designer.
Blocking is required at the edges of OSB shearwalls, Where a stucco finish is desired the sheathing should be
which are specially engineered to transfer lateral wind or covered with a double layer of sheathing membrane to
earthquake forces to the foundation in engineered prevent moisture saturation of the panels during stucco
construction (see Section 6.5). Sheathing panels should cure or from wind driven rain. Note that Part 9 of the
cover the upper plate and lower sill to ensure the load path NBCC specifies a minimum panel thickness of 12.5 mm
from roof to the foundation is maintained. and does not allow the use of tar-saturated felts or papers
Leave a 3 mm (1/8”)
minimum gap on edges
and around openings
Note:
1. Panels to be minimum 600 mm wide typically. Minimum width to be 1220 mm wide when used as bracing.
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to be used as sheathing membrane beneath stucco. edges must be supported by framing members or not
The joints in the sheathing membrane should be lapped less than 38x38 mm blocking. Furring may also be used
a minimum of 150 mm. Framing around all openings as recommended by the NBCC for other types of
should be protected with two layers of sheathing cladding.
membrane. In addition, proper flashing design and good
construction techniques should insure that free water The vertical joints between panels should be protected
cannot enter the space between the membrane and the against water entry with caulking or batten strips and
sheathing. Additional information about stucco flashing is required at horizontal joints unless the siding
application over OSB is available from the SBA. is lapped. The siding should be fastened with casing or
siding nails spaced at 150 mm along panel edges, 300
5.5 Exterior Siding mm along intermediate supports and 10 mm minimum
from panel edges. Other equivalent fastening schedules
Figure 8 provides the recommended installation details may be used.
for OSB exterior siding. Prior to installation all panel
edges should be treated with a primer or sealer. During Following installation OSB siding should be protected by
installation a 3 mm gap should be left between panel a good exterior quality finishing system (see Section 4.2).
edges to allow expansion without buckling. All panel
Seal all
panel edges
Support Horizontal
joints lap
40 mm (1-1/2”)
minimum or
flash
OSB Minimum
siding 3 mm (1/8”)
gap between
panels and
at door and
window
openings
25 mm (1”)
minimum lap 200 mm (8”)
at foundation minimum
25 mm (1”) above grade
minimum lap
200 mm (8”) at foundation
minimum
above grade
CAULKED APPLICATION BATTEN APPLICATION
Note: Sealing of panel edges is most conveniently performed while panels are neatly stacked.
Notes:
1. The minimum thickness of grooved or striated panels is measured from the panel back to the bottom of the groove.
2. OSB to conform to CSA O437.0, Grade O–2.
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5.6 Moisture during Construction
OSB structural sheathing is manufactured with an required in warehousing and on the job site to protect
exterior grade adhesive. Sloped OSB roofs will allow panels from mechanical damage and lengthy exposure
rain water to run off. If ponding occurs on floors or other to adverse moisture conditions. For best results handle
flat surfaces SBA recommends excess water be panels as little as possible. Ship in the original lift loads
broomed off or several 25 mm diameter holes be drilled if possible. Use care in handling the panels to avoid
in the ponding area to allow the water to drain. damaging corners and edges on the job site and keep
lifts out of the mud.
5.7 Detailing and Good Construction
Practice If storing OSB panels for long periods, store lifts indoors
or under cover with enough supports that panels remain
OSB like other wood products should be protected from flat. Provide air circulation around panels by keeping
excess moisture. Ensure that sheathing paper or “house covers open and away from sides and bottoms of lift
wrap” is properly installed under stucco or brick veneer. loads.
Provide adequate flashing over openings in brick veneer
walls so that the wall cavity will drain when moisture 5.9 Maximum Loads for OSB Panels
penetrates the brick. In addition, provide adequate
flashing at all roof and wall openings and at changes in Table 9 provides the maximum allowable loads for rated
horizontal and vertical direction (for example inside OSB roof sheathing panels. This table was developed
corners, valleys, dormers). Properly caulk the space following extensive testing of these products in research
where siding butts against door and window frames. facilities plus many years of successful applications in
construction.
All panels should be spaced 3 mm (1/8”) on all sides to
allow for expansion due to moisture changes, and on In addition, panels meeting CSA O325.0 have been
long floors or roofs install an expansion joint every 24 m. performance tested for a 1.7 kPa loading with a
Extra fastening and closer spacing is required in high deflection limit of L/240, where L is the spacing between
wind or seismic areas. Check with the local building supports.
authority for these special requirements.
OSB rated floor sheathing panels meeting CSA O325.0
5.8 Shipping, Handling and Storage have been tested for a 4.8 kPa uniform load with a
deflection limit of L/360.
OSB is a wood based product. Reasonable care is
Table 9. Maximum Allowable Loads for CSA O325 Rated OSB Roof Sheathing
Panel Mark Thickness Maximum Span, Maximum Span, Allowable Live loads, kPa 4 ,3
(CSA 325) (mm) with Edge without Edge Spacing of Supports, centre to centre (mm)
Support 2 Support
(mm) (mm) 300 400 500 600 800 1000 1200
Notes:
1. Values are valid when long panel dimension is across supports and for panels 600 mm or wider. For narrower panels, additional edge supports are required.
2. Tongue–and–groove edges, panel edge clips (one centered between supports, except two equally spaced between supports at 1200 mm o.c.),
limber blocking, or other.
3. Values include an allowance for 0.5 kPa dead load. If higher dead loads are used, the live load should be reduced accordingly.
4. 600 mm for 12.5 mm panels.
5. For enhanced performance, SBA recommends minimum 1R24 at 400 mm o.c. and 2R32 at 600 mm o.c.
6. Check with suppliers for availability.
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6.0 OTHER USES FOR OSB
22
applications. These advantages have been recognized in the separate SBA publication “Design Rated OSB -
by industrial buyers particularly for crating and Design Manual”.
packaging, materials handling and manufactured housing
applications. More and more OSB is chosen for crating, 6.6 Horizontal Diaphragms and Shearwalls
pallets, bins, furniture frames, display racks and store
fixtures. OSB sheathing panels can be used to create horizontal
diaphragms and shearwalls in order to brace buildings
6.5 Engineering Design for wind and seismic loads. Tables 10 and 11 contain
the factored shear resistance for shearwalls and
Design values for OSB are given in the new CSA O86-01 diaphragms sheathed with OSB meeting CSA Standards
“Engineering Design in Wood” for panels meeting CSA O325, O437 or O452. CSA O86 recognizes that OSB is
O452 “Design Rated OSB” and CSA O325 “Construction equivalent to plywood in diaphragms and shearwalls.
Sheathing”. Design values for shearwalls or diaphragms Note that proper design of shearwalls and diaphragms
are also provided for panels meeting CSA O325, include sizing the perimeter members for axial forces.
CSA O452 or CSA O437 “Strandboard and Waferboard”. Also, the connections between the diaphragm and
New in-grade tests have proven that CSA O325 panels shearwall must be engineered. The shearwall must also
can meet the minimum strength and stiffness be adequately anchored to the supporting wall or
requirements of CSA O437. Contact the SBA office for foundation and the corners fastened down to prevent the
further information on equivalent performance. wall from overturning under lateral loads.
Additional information on Engineering Design is available
Table 10. Factored Shear Resistance (kN/m) for OSB Shearwalls with S-P-F Framing
CSA O325 Nominal Common Nail Nail
Panel Panel Nail Penetration in Spacing
Mark Thickness Diameter Framing at Panel Edges
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm)
150 100 75 50
Notes:
1. All panel edges backed with 38 mm or wider framing. Sheathing installed either vertically or horizontally. Space nails at 300 mm on centre along
intermediate framing members. Panels applied directly to framing.
2. Shear resistance values are for short term duration of load, dry service conditions and common nails only. For other loading, blocking or nail type
conditions, refer to CSA O86-01.
3. Values are for lumber with a moisture content of 15% or less prior to nailing. For unseasoned lumber, multiply the values by 0.8.
4. OSB to meet CSA standards O325, O437 or O452. Check for availability before specifying.
5. Values are for S-P-F framing lumber only. For other species of lumber, multiply the shear resistance values by the following factors:
D.Fir-L 1.25
Hem-Fir 1.12
Northern Species 0.87
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6.7 OSB Panels over Metal Framing
The use of OSB panels over metal framing members is Since threads extend only part way up the shank of
possible with modern fastening methods such as self- screws or nails, it is important to specify a fastener
drilling, self-tapping screws or screw-shank nails. These length sufficient to engage the metal framing. Load-span
can be used to attach a wide range of panel thicknesses recommendations are the same as for wood-frame
to steel flanges, or lighter members such as cold-formed systems described elsewhere in this manual. (Contact
steel sections. Construction adhesives recommended by SBA for additional information.)
the metal framing manufacturers should be used with
hardened screw-shank nails.
Table 11. Factored Shear Resistance (kN/m) for OSB Diaphragms with S-P-F Framing
Common Min. CSA O325 Nominal Min. Blocked Diaphragms Unblocked Diaphragms
Nail Nail Panel Panel Nominal Nail Spacing (mm) at Boundaries (All Cases) and at Nail Spacing at 150 mm
Diameter Penetration Mark Thickness Width of Continuous Panel Edges Parallel to Load Maximum at Supported Edges
(mm) in Member (mm) Framing (Cases 3 - 4)
(mm) (mm) 150 100 64 50 Load Perp. to
Unblocked
Nail Spacing at Other Panel Edges, mm Edges All Other
150 150 100 75 Case 1 Cases 2-3-4
Notes:
1. Space nails at 300 mm on centre along intermediate framing members. Nails placed not less than 9 mm from panel edge. Panels applied directly to
framing.
2. Shear resistance values are for short term duration of load, dry service conditions and common nails only. For other loading or nail type conditions,
refer to CSA O86-01.
3. Values are for lumber with a moisture content of 15% or less prior to nailing. For unseasoned lumber, multiply the values by 0.8.
4. OSB to meet CSA standards O325, O437 or O452. Check for availability before specifying.
5. Values are for S-P-F framing lumber only. For other species of lumber, multiply the shear resistance values by the following factors:
D.Fir-L 1.25
Hem-Fir 1.12
Northern Species 0.87
6. (*) Two lines of fasteners required
Deflection:
The amount a panel deflects between two supports when carrying a load. Maximum deflection for roof loads is usually
L/240 for live load only or L/180 for total load. For floor loads, maximum deflection is usually L/360 for live load plus
dead load.
Exterior bond panel:
A panel bonded with a thermosetting binder and with the quality of the adhesive bond controlled in production by means
of a specified bond durability test.
Major axis (Strength axis):
The axis with the greater stiffness and strength in bending. For OSB, the direction of alignment of the strands in the face
layers of the panel.
Minor axis:
The axis with the lesser stiffness and strength in bending. For OSB, the direction at right angles to alignment of the
strands in the face layers of the panel.
Nominal thickness:
The grademark specified thickness marked on the panel.
OSB:
An abbreviation for Oriented Strand Board; a type of mat–formed panel with oriented or aligned strands resulting in
directional properties. OSB conforms to standards such as CSA O325, O437, O452, US DOC PS 2 or other
national standards (JAS, EN).
Performance Rated (or Rated):
Panels which have been tested to meet specific loading and deflection conditions from impact, concentrated static,
uniformly distributed and racking loads for panels intended to span two or more supports.
Strand:
A specialized knife-cut wood flake of controlled thickness and a length along the grain orientation of at least twice and
usually many times its width.
Touch–Sanded:
A process that removes material from the panel surface to provide a uniform thickness. Tongue and Groove panels are
usually touch–sanded.
Thermosetting binder:
An adhesive or binder which when fully cured is not softened by heat, and will not break down in the presence of
moisture.
Wafer:
A specialized knife cut wood flake having a controlled length of at least 30mm (1 1/4”) along the grain, a controlled
thickness and a variable width.
APA - The Engineered Wood Association:
An industry association of plywood, OSB, glulam and engineered wood manufacturers. They supplied some information
found in this manual. APA provides a quality assurance program for its member companies.
HUD:
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD sets standards for government financed construction
and manufactured homes.
PSI:
Professional Service Industries Inc, Pittsburgh Testing Laboratory; a compliance, assurance and inspection agency with
wood products testing facilities in Eugene, OR.
TECO:
A U.S. national inspection and testing agency with wood products testing facilities in Madison, WI, Eugene, OR, and
Shreveport, LA.
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APPENDIX B - SBA MEMBER PLANT LOCATIONS
2 1
Canada
U.S.A.
Brazil
4
Poland
7
France
3
26
SBA MEMBER COMPANIES
Grant Forest Products Inc. 2233 Argentia Road 905-858-3200 Englehart, ON Canada 1
Mississauga, ON Canada L5N 2X7 905-858-3208 Timmins, ON Canada 2
ISOROY S.A. 54-56 rue d’Arcueil, SILIC 135 33-1-56-30-20-00 Châtellerault, France 3
Immeuble Amsterdam 33-1-57-02-12-71
94523 Rungis Cédex, France
Langboard Inc. P.O. Box 837, Hwy 84 East 229-263-8943 Quitman, GA U.S.A. 5
Quitman, GA U.S.A. 31643 229-263-5535
MASISA do Brasil Ltda. Rua Visconde do Rio Branco 55-41-324-0334 Ponta Grossa, Brazil 7
1341-8 Andar 80.420-210, 55-41-219-1870
Curitiba PR, Brazil
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ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
ALLIED MEMBERS
RESEARCH MEMBERS
AFFILIATED WITH
28