Is OSB okay to use for roofing sheathing?

Question

Is it less advisable than plywood of the same thickness (probably 5/8)?

Answer 1

Yeppers............ just check the rafter spacing......IIRC the 5/8 can be 24" oc

Answer 2

WOW!! A few questions: a) What spacing for the roof rafters? b) To your knowledge, were these boards exposed to moisture or not properly glued. Right off the bat: a) The roof will not be able to withstand point-loading anywhere near design-load. This will translate to its response to wind and snow-loads. If the rafters are 24" OC, this will be exaggerated to the point where you may even be able to see ripples in the roof telegraphing the rafter location. b) Walking across the roof may become an adventure for the reasons noted. The structural integrity of the substrate is compromised to the point where even that much load may exceed the capacity of the sheathing. c) Normal expansion and contraction from heating and cooling (Tulsa goes from well below 0F to well above 100F) will cause premature failure of the sheathing as the material will not hold the nails. d) And, following from the above, the nails for both the shingles and the sheathing (or staples as the case may be) will pull loose prematurely - and Tulsa is quite windy. I give that roof 5 years based on 24" rafter spacing. 8-10 years based on 16" rafter spacing - at the outside. A really windy blizzard may take it right away.

Answer 3

OSB sheathing is standard roofing underlayment in the building industry now.

Answer 4

5/8 inch OSB makes for a wonderful roof. should last a long time if done properly.

Answer 5

Roof sheathing is an ideal use for OSB.

Answer 6

Check building codes in your area!