There are some controversies about using particle boards in roofing. Some say that it can be used by applying some paint on it and placing it on top of your roof and some simply proscribe the idea.
Although topping your roof with a particle board directly may not be that helpful, it is a great choice for insulation and some special roof areas.
Now, if you are in a dilemma about whether can you use particle board for roofing, I hope this article will help you.
Let’s skim through this section article with a brief discussion regarding particle boards.
What is a particle board?
Particleboard is a squeezed and casted-out engineered wood product made from wood shavings . It is a jute stick fragments and composite polymers or other compatible binders.
Wood fragments can be produced from essentially any portion or type of wood, including scraps, flakes, and shavings from plywood or other wood-based manufacture.
All kinds of power tools can mill it, and it has a moderate tear-out and comparatively less stiff texture. The most prevalent finishes are laminate and veneer.
Benefits of using particle board
Particleboard has a very special kind of texture that helps to absorb the sound. Thus, it can provide you a calm and quiet environment in your home.
It insulates the area between the roof and the outside. Then on a sunny day, outer heat cannot get into the house. On the other hand, on a cold day the home remains warm.
Again, it also provides moderate compression resistance. It softens and covers faults in the attics. It can also be used in furniture, cabinets, home accents, flooring, roofing, and many more.
Furthermore, particleboards are comparatively better than plywood in terms of providing a uniform base for nails and hammers. It is also a cost-effective solution as it comprises wooden-based products that are not that expensive.
Can You Use Particle Board For Roofing
Particle board is available in a variety of widths, making it a potential roofing material. There are two types of particle board, one is approved for roofing and another one should be avoided.
In the case of non-approved versions, the grade mark on the particle board used for roof sheathing was not apparent.
In terms of the approved versions, it can be used as roof sheathing. Nowadays, particleboard must be clearly identified as ASTM type 2-M-W, which is acceptable as roof sheathing by standard scales.
Processed lumber is frequently utilized as the basic component on a low slope ceiling, with light layers of treated lumber applied on top, and shingles applied after that. Again, particleboard is sometimes also used for insulation of your roof because it can help you to control heat loss keeping it to a minimum.
Experts are unable to determine whether this material is physically appropriate. They strongly advise that you have the particle board roof sheathing examined by a structural expert before the expiration of your Inspection Objection Deadline.
The ANSI A208 1 grade 2-MW is the construction standard for particleboards that are recognized and used as walls and ceiling cladding. The APA or TECO is the overall performance level standard for roofing. Safety standards may also acknowledge other commercial products based on their applications and properties.
However, it is always best to consult a professional before starting any kind of roofing job. Without having any consultation or prior knowledge regarding this matter, it is not recommended to go ahead and do your roofing job with particleboards. This can save you from a lot of mistakes and money loss.
Problems for using particle board
Particleboard may seem to be a less expensive option but there are some cons related to its usage. The cons of particleboard sometimes become so severe that it may create great adversities for your roof.
Particleboard has a smooth texture that can “flake” into chunks due to its composition of very fine wood fibers. While nailing down such boards, it tends to breaks into pieces or comes off.
Particleboards sometimes hold up moisture which can be a great problem for your roof. Whenever it comes in contact with any kind of liquid such as rainwater, snow, etc, it soaks up, becomes swollen, and starts to disintegrate. So, it must have to avoid any contact with water as this can cause damage and leakage to your roof.
Final words
The efficiencies of particle board vary on what purpose you are using your particleboard. It is always your decision whether can you use particle board for roofing, but I hope this article gives you an overall idea of the situation along with the pros and cons of using it.
So, make sure to make a thorough inspection of your roof material, shingles, and other things related to it before taking any decision.
