Sheathing is generally installed vertically on walls, but horizontally on weight-bearing surfaces. Horizontally puts more roofing rafters or more floor joists under each sheet. More rafters per sheet or more joists per sheet means greater weight distribution.

Should plywood be installed vertically or horizontally?

If the height of a wall is less than 8-feet, install the plywood (or OSB) vertically. If the height of a wall is greater then 8-feet, install the plywood (or OSB) horizontally.

Can you install zip sheathing vertically?

Install ZIP System® sheathing panels positioned with the water-resistive barrier facing towards the exterior. The panels may be installed with the long side of the panel oriented either horizontally or vertically to the framing members.

Is plywood stronger horizontal or vertical?

vertical

wall construction, vertical orientation is actually stronger because there are no horizontal joints.

Which way do you lay sheathing?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Be sure to install the textured side facing up staggering panels at least two supports is recommended.

Can sheathing be vertical?

In some parts of the US or Canada wall sheathing is either installed vertically or horizontally and often it comes down to just a regional preference.

What direction does plywood go on a roof?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: There. Because if you are referring to the direction of the grain of plywood like like I did and other carpenters. I worked with then of course this is the same thing as the strength axis but to

Does the orientation of plywood matter?

Wood is strongest in the direction parallel to grain. Because of this, the strength and stiffness properties of wood structural panels are greater in the direction parallel to the strength axis than perpendicular to it (see Figure 1).

Does roof sheathing need to be staggered?

Staggering panels by at least two supports is recommended. During the installation of OSB, the rough surface side should be facing up. This rough side is a screened or skid-resistant coated side. The panels should be spaced 1/8-inch apart at the ends and edges.

Which direction is OSB stronger?

The smooth side has a better moisture resistance and will ultimately provide better performance against weather. Facing the board smooth side out will maximize its ability to keep moisture out of the structure.

What thickness OSB should be used for roofing?

7/16-inch OSB

The most commonly used OSB size for roofing is 7/16-inch OSB. It’s slightly smaller than 1/2-inch roof sheathing and considered the absolute minimum where rafters/trusses are spaced 24″ O.C. However, you can use other OSB sizes depending on your location and how far apart you space trusses or rafters.

How thick should the plywood be for a roof?

Most Common Thickness



The most common rafter spacing is 24 inches, and 5/8-inch plywood is recommended for that. It will support roof loads for most situations and is the standard for most roof applications. Roofs with very heavy loads may require 3/4-inch thickness.

Can OSB be used for roof sheathing?

Both OSB and plywood panels can cut and installed on a roof using conventional roofing equipment. They have similar structural characteristics, and can be used interchangeably.

Is CDX or OSB better?

Although some people will ultimately choose CDX, many experts argue that OSB is better overall for roofing. OSB is far less likely to expand and contract when exposed to humidity and moisture, even though it will take longer to dry. With wrapping, though, it can withstand the elements without issue.

How far can you span 7/16 OSB?

2304.8 Floor and Roof Sheathing

PANEL GRADE THICKNESS (inch) MAXIMUM SPAN (inches)
Structural I sheathing 7/16 24
15/32 24
1/2 24
19/32, 5/8 24

How Far Can 3/4 OSB span?

24 inches

Maximum span 24 inches where 3/4-inch wood finish flooring is installed at right angles to joists.

Should roof sheathing have gaps?

As of 2021, if plank decking has more than a 1/8” gap between the planks, your roof decking must be replaced per the manufacturer’s installation instructions before the roofing material can be installed.

Can 7/16 OSB span 24 inches?

Wall panels 7/16 Category may be used on studs spaced up to 24” o.c.