Installing OSB Roof Sheathing: Mistakes to Avoid
Oriented strand board, or OSB roof sheathing, is a preferred material for roofing, because of its strength and low weight. Avoid the errors described when installing this roof sheathing. Ensure roof trusses are in proper alignment with no curves or uneven sections when installing OSB to sheathe roofs. Curved or uneven roof trusses will cause OSB roof sheathing to warp or buckle under roof coverings. Avoid installing OSB with the textured side down. The textured surface helps flashing and waterproof underlay stay in place effectively. Roof trusses must be dry when sheathing a roof with OSB, to prevent mold growth in the roof, and coverage gaps as the trusses dry and shrink. Leave a 3 mm (1/8 inch) gap between the OSB panels to allow for expansion. Stagger the panels over the roof with 2 supports between panel ends. Leave a span of 10 mm (3/8 inch) in from the edge of each panel when nailing or stapling to prevent fraying. Space the nails or staples in OSB panels at 6 inches along edges and 12 inches at roof supports.Install OSB Panels on Aligned Roof Trusses
Install OSB Textured Side Up
Avoid Putting OSB on Wet Roof Trusses
Avoid Butting OSB Panels Tightly
Avoid Nailing or Stapling Edges of OSB Panels
Avoid Uneven Nail Spacing