Before knowing whether the OSB board can be used for roofing or not, you should have knowledge about the OSB board. So, do you know what the OSB board is?
Basically, OSB or Oriented Strand Board is formed by compressed layers of the wood strands along with adhesives. Now the question is can you use OSB board for roofing?
Yes! You can use an OSB board for roofing. In fact, OSB comes with a powerful and protective layout. As a result, nowadays, it has become so popular for roof sheathing.
We guess you are still confused about making a decision. And, as you haven’t used an OSB board, it’s quite normal to be confused.
Well, to overcome your confusion and turn it into confidence, you have to read our article. Here, we will discuss the use of OSB boards for roofing and why it is so popular.
So, let’s get started…
Can You Use Osb Board For Roofing?
OSB or Oriented Strand Board engineered in such a way that it looks exactly the same as the particleboard. But, both of them are totally different according to the quality and structure.
The OSB board is constructed in such a way that it has become the best use for roof sheathing. If we talk about the structure of this wood, then we must say it contains better structural integrity in comparison with plywood.
Moreover, it is also less expensive. Thus, you can get your roofing done so perfectly on a tight budget.
Why Should You Use OSB Board for Roofing?
The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) as well as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has recommended OSB for the roof sheathing. But if you are living in Dade County in Florida and thinking of using an OSB board for roofing, then there is a problem.
The reason is, the building authority in that country doesn’t permit it to be used there. Due to Hurricane Andrew and its extensive damage in 1992, they have banned OSB. As a result, you can’t use OSB for roofing in that country.
On the other hand, all other building authorities in the United States allow using the OSB for roofing. It has even become a routine work to use it for any kind of exterior sheathing.
And, it is constructed in such a way that it contains less tendency to distend as well as contract with the continuous mutating moisture conditions in comparison with plywood.
Problems of OSB Board:
The OSB board contains less aptitude to absorb moisture. But once moisture enters, it becomes too difficult to evaporate it. And, due to the moisture, the edges start to swell more rather than its centers. For this reason, ridges are noticeable under the coverings of thin roofs like asphalt tiles.
Also, if we talk about the resistance of OSB, it basically depends on those materials from which it’s made. But, beyond all the resistance as well as the problems, the OSB board is the most popular for roofing among the whole United States except that one country.
How to Choose the Proper OSB Board?
OSB sheets come in the same way as plywood, which is four by eight-foot sheets. But according to the manufacturing process, they are wider and longer than the plywoods. Also, the thickness of the sheets is from 5-by-16 inches to 3-by-4 inches. So, how would you know which one is proper for you?
Basically, according to the gap of the transom, you would easily identify the proper one. If the rafter spacing is at most 24 inches, then ½ inch OSB is perfect for you.
Thus, by using the proper size of OSB boards in a proper way, you can make your roof perfect and stronger.
So, it will surely be wise if you decide to use the OSB board for roofing. If you are living in Dade County, Florida, then it will be tough for you. But if you are a resident of any other country in the United States, then you can use the OSB board for roofing without any doubt.
Verdict:
Well, we have come to the end of our article. Hopefully, you have got your desired answer and you won’t face any trouble making the right decision.
So, are you a resident of Dade County, Florida? If not, then don’t think too much. Complete the roofing of your house with an OSB board. It is sturdy enough to protect your house.
By the way, if you still have any questions, then just let us know. We would love to answer you.
