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.

Install OSB Panels on Aligned Roof Trusses

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.

Install OSB Textured Side Up

Avoid installing OSB with the textured side down. The textured surface helps flashing and waterproof underlay stay in place effectively.

Avoid Putting OSB on Wet Roof Trusses

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.

Avoid Butting OSB Panels Tightly

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.

Avoid Nailing or Stapling Edges of OSB Panels

Leave a span of 10 mm (3/8 inch) in from the edge of each panel when nailing or stapling to prevent fraying.

Avoid Uneven Nail Spacing

Space the nails or staples in OSB panels at 6 inches along edges and 12 inches at roof supports.