When it comes to roofing, what type of plywood is used? Plywood is a composite material that consists of thin “plies” of wood bonded together. The grain runs in the right direction for strength. It consists of at least three sheets, and sometimes more. There are two main types of plywood: structural and general. Structural plywood is certified for strength and passed the building codes, while general plywood does not. Shuttering plywood is another type, and is used to hold up concrete until it sets. local roofing companies
The thickness of plywood depends on the load of the roof. A flat roof will support more weight than a pitched one, and will require thicker plywood. Plywood that is 3/4 inch thick is standard for most roofs. It allows for the weight of shingles and snow to be contained without impacting the structure. As a rule of thumb, a building’s roof rafters should be spaced at 16 inches apart.
When it comes to plywood thickness, roofing plywood comes in 12 and 58-inch thicknesses. The latter thickness is best for roofs that can support normal weights and roof rafters spaced 24 inches apart. On the other hand, if the weight of the roof is high and the rafters are not spaced evenly, a 34-inch-thick plywood will provide adequate support. In addition to waterproofness, some types of plywood are waterproof, so water can’t enter the wood and result in a leaky roof.
While OSB is more affordable, plywood is better insulator and won’t delaminate if it gets wet. Both types of plywood are available, but it’s best to choose exterior grade plywood if possible. When selecting plywood, don’t forget to check the type of lamination. Some plywood is more durable than others, while some are better than others, while some have more than one layer.
When it comes to grade, structural grade is the highest quality. It will have exceptional bond strength, resistance to moisture, and resistance to temperature changes. Additionally, it will be visually pleasing. Grade A plywood will have minimal flaws and is best for interior projects where it will be a surface. If you’re concerned about aesthetics, you’ll probably want to opt for structural grade. However, don’t let the quality of a product dictate whether it’s worth it for a roofing project.
Softwood plywood is not suitable for outdoor use. While it’s durable, it’s not resistant to water. It’s suited for subflooring, but will need sheathing for long-term use. For example, a roof made of CDX plywood is not a good choice for a house with many windows. This type of plywood is more expensive than other plywood, but it can last for decades.
Plywood is made of thin veneered sheets glued together. The process of manufacturing OSB involves adding glue and wax to thin strands of wood. After the thin sheets of wood have dried, they are pressed together to create a large, thick mat. The resulting panel is made of many layers that are parallel to each other, making it stronger and more durable than the traditional type of plywood. And, because plywood is a traditional building material, it has become increasingly popular.
