A Short Guide to OSB Boards

Oriented strand board (OSB) is manufactured in wide mats from cross-oriented layers of thin, rectangular wooden strips compressed and bonded together with wax and synthetic resin adhesives (95% wood, 5% wax and resin).

OSB is suitable for a variety of end uses including subflooring, single-layer flooring, wall and roof sheathing, sheathing ceiling/deck, structural insulated panels, webs for wood I-joists, industrial containers, mezzanine decks, and furniture

OSB stands for Oriented standard board and is also known as a sterling board is manufactured out of compressed layers of wood strands with construction adhesives like wax and synthetic resin. OSB boards have been used in the market since 1963 and unlike other boards, in OSB boards the strip of wood is placed strategically rather than randomly to increase the strength of the boards.

The wood used in OSB boards come from sustainable, Quickly growing and small trees like aspen poplar and southern yellow pine. OSB Sheet usually has a rough and variegated surface and texture. Individual strips of wood are clearly visible and are normally 2.5 cm by 15cm (1 inch by 5.9 inches) and are laid unevenly across each other to increase the strength of OSB boards.

How is OSB panel manufactured?

What are the Benefits of OSB Boards?

• Higher Strength (than plywood)

When Compared to Plywood and other alternatives, OSB boards have a far greater shear strength. Because of its layered method of manufacturing OSB boards are incredibly strong and can withstand extreme pressure making OSB the best material for various application.

• Weather resistance

OSB sheets need to be coated or primed with weather-proof paint. However, once done it becomes waterproof.

• Easy to Work

OSB sheets aren’t the most appealing Building material but once coated with primer or latex-based or oil-based paint. The texture and form of the board is completely changed. Sheets can be planed, drilled, sawn, sanded or filled without any problems.

• Inexpensive

OSB sheet is significantly less expensive than other alternatives materials used. It is a remarkably cost-effective building material. Because of its multiple application areas builder can benefit from significant cost saving.

• Consistency

Advancement in technology and manufacturing units for press technology the size and shape of the materials is extremely consistent. Oriented Strand Boards are made up form wood strands so there is no scope of knots, voids, and other weak spots.

• Durable

Unlike other alternative OSB sheets are not prone to delaminate over a period of time.

• Versatility

OSB sheets are extremely versatile in nature because of its strength and durability. OSB sheets can be used in various places like Floor, Wall, Subfloor and decking as they are available in various sizes making it easy to transport and ship.

• Sustainable

OSB sheets, unlike its alternative, are considered sustainable as they are made from strands of wood which are from small trees that come from a sustainably managed forest.

Difference between OSB (Orient Strand Boards) and Plywood

How to Add Water Protection to OSB boards?

• Cut your OSB into the different pieces that you need for your project
• Sand your OSB pieces lightly and then paint or stain it using a weather-proof exterior paint that is either oil or latex-based or a stain for a natural finish
• Once dry, paint on a wood waterproofing sealant on all sides and all cuts
• Allow to dry for 12 hours on each side or as specified on the sealant
• Apply a second coat if required
• Allow to dry for 12 hours on each side or as specified on the sealant

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