What is OSB and How is it Manufactured?
OSB is a structural wood sheathing panel that is primarily made up of hardwoods (aspen, birch and popular) and softwoods (lodgepole pine and southern pine) that are combined with synthetic resin, liquid wax and other additives.
The typical OSB manufacturing process begins with the harvesting of smaller diameter trees than those typically selected for dimensional lumber. OSB panels can be produced from both barked and debarked trees. When the felled trees arrive at the manufacturing plant, the trees are fed into a waferizer that cuts the trees into strands of wood. The size and shape of these wafer strands depends on the waferizer the manufacturer uses and will have some variation in shape due to the process. The cut wafers are then dried to obtain an optimum moisture content that may vary by manufacturer (often as low as 6%). The final moisture content must compensate for the addition of the bonding resins and any other agents that the manufacturer adds to the mix.
As part of the forming process, the wafers are directed to a mat former where the wafers are laid in one direction to form the first face of the panel. Additional mats are then created by placing new wafers in opposing directions to give the panel its structural rigidity. OSB panels are typically made up of three to five mat layers. During the forming process, the resins and other additives are added to the mats. After the forming process is complete, the formed panel is hot pressed to form the panel's final thickness. During this step, the formed panel is subject to both high pressures and temperatures to activate and cure the resins. After the hot pressing and baking processes are complete, the panels are cooled, trimmed, edge-painted and then packaged for shipping.
How is OSB Manufactured Differently than Plywood?
Both OSB and plywood are typically manufactured from trees that are of a smaller diameter than would be harvested for dimensional lumber. They also both involve layers of material instead of being solid pieces of wood like dimensional lumber. They both are engineered products that are available in different structural grades and in various performance grades. Both are composite materials using resins to glue together wood to create a sheet product that is both larger and stronger than the wood alone would have been.
The major differentiator between the two products is the fact that OSB is composed of thousands of small wafers of wood laid out in multiple layers, while plywood is composed of three plus layers of wood veneer sheets. Plywood veneers are created by cutting a prepared tree to size and then using a lath to peel the tree to form a long sheet. This wafer versus veneer has an impact on the way each product reacts to moisture.
Uses of OSB Outside
OSB boards can be used for many different types of outside structures or projects, including but not limited to:
1. Sheds
OSB boards are an excellent material to use for the construction of sheds because they can be treated with chemicals that protect against water, rot, and pests.
This makes them ideal for outdoor storage facilities.
These chemicals also allow it to withstand heat well, allowing these structures to remain cool during warmer weather months.
This helps reduce energy usage, which is beneficial to both the environment and your wallet.
2. Dog Houses
Another use for OSB boards is to make dog houses.
It has a naturally low level of dust, which minimizes the risk of respiratory issues.
These structures are also very durable and easy to clean, which makes them ideal if your pet sheds often.
3. Chicken Coops
OSB boards can also be used to make chicken coops, as they are very durable and easy to maintain.
These structures require little maintenance.
4. Decks
Perhaps the most common use for OSB boards is to build decks, which are an excellent choice if you want your outdoor living space to be stylish yet durable.
These structures can last up to 15 years in most climates, making them a great long-term investment.
In addition, they require little maintenance and are very easy to clean, which is important if you have children or pets.
5. Flooring
If you have a home with an unfinished basement or another room that lacks flooring, OSB boards are also an excellent option to use.
These structures provide increased durability and weather resistance, while still giving the impression of high-quality wood floors.
6. Outdoor Furniture
If you are looking to create furniture for your patio or deck, OSB boards can be used.
These structures are great if you want something that is stylish and easy to clean, which makes them a wise choice.
7. Decorative Items
OSB boards can also be used to create many different types of decorative items, such as:
a] Frames and Photo Boards
b] Signs for businesses or other purposes
c] Plaques to commemorate special occasions like birthdays or holidays
d] Animal cutouts if you want a fun way to decorate your yard
e] Mailboxes or other structures for outdoor storage options
8. Play Structures
OSB boards are also ideal for use to create play structures, such as swings or other climbing equipment.
9. Playhouses
These structures can be used to create simple playhouses for children.
They are also a great choice if you want an attractive and sturdy structure that will provide years of fun .
10. Wavy Slats
OSB boards can also be used to create wavy slat structures.
These are great for creating privacy in your yard, while still allowing light into the area.
11. Deck Railing System
If you want to add a railing system around your deck or patio, an excellent choice is made of OSB boards.
These structures are very durable and easy to install, which saves you time and money.
