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The most important part of the construction process is laying down a good foundation. Without it, you will have nothing to build on. So when choosing between two materials in the flooring department, how do you know which one is best for your needs? This article will take a close look at plywood vs osb for subfloor and compare their pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision about what type of material to use in your home.
The question of osb vs plywood subfloor is one that comes up often for homeowners trying to decide on the best option. The two options are quite different, and there are many factors to take into consideration when deciding which type will work best in your home.
Despite, the heated battle between these two materials, plywood seems slightly superior to its close rival OSB board. This is due to its superior structural strength.
Benefits of Using a Plywood Subfloor
Higher Durability and Strength:
Plywood is crafted from solid wood and offers a higher degree of durability than OSB. It won’t split, crack, or warp easily in areas with high foot traffic or furniture. Its strength makes plywood the ideal choice for places that experience hefty loads, such as gymnasiums and equipment storage rooms.
For instance, in a project involving constructing a commercial building, plywood subflooring is the optimal choice for its strength and durability. It must be able to bear heavy loads of equipment, and furniture, as well as frequent foot traffic; otherwise it will break down over time. Plywood’s structural integrity guarantees that it can withstand these forces while also maintaining longevity and safety.
Better Resistance to Moisture:
Plywood, crafted from hardwood with a tight grain structure that prevents it from absorbing moisture, is far more resistant to water damage than OSB. Therefore, plywood is an ideal material for high-humidity spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens or areas prone to water damage like basements; its sturdiness will stand the test of time.
For example, when constructing a residential dwelling, plywood subflooring is the ideal choice for bathrooms due to its resilience against water spills. Unlike OSB subflooring which can soak up moisture leading to warping and mold growth over time, plywood remains strong enough in damp environments to guarantee the security of your bathroom floor.
More Stable and Less Likely to Warp:
With its superior structural strength and resistance to moisture, plywood is the ideal choice for areas that experience frequent temperature and humidity shifts, such as attics or basements. It won’t bend or buckle like OSB does, preserving its shape over time and creating a dependable surface on which you can install your finished flooring.
For example, when establishing an attic space for storage purposes, plywood subflooring is the preferred choice over OSB subflooring. The attic will endure varying temperatures and humidity levels which can cause OSB to warp or become oversized, potentially compromising its strength. But with plywood subflooring, you won’t have that issue; it remains solid and resilient despite climate changes—ensuring a stable and dependable area for storing your belongings.
Easier to Work With and Install:
Working with and installing plywood is simpler than OSB due to its easy-to-manipulate characteristics, which makes it simple to cut, drill, and shape. Furthermore, the surface of this material is smoother and more even compared to OSB for a precise layering process. Additionally, there’s less risk in terms of splintering when using plywood; hence making installation much safer for those involved.
Take installing a subfloor for example: if you are tackling the job yourself, plywood will be your go-to choice. It is much easier to work with than OSB and can be more easily cut, shaped, and installed. Moreover, its even surface makes it simpler to lay down the final flooring of your choice – whether that’s carpet or hardwood.
Provides a Smooth and Flat Surface for Finished Flooring:
Plywood is an optimal option for any area with delicate floorings, such as hardwood or tile. Its robustness and steadiness guarantee that the finished floor will stay smooth and flat over time, eliminating the possibility of cracks or unevenness occurring. With its superior strength and stability, plywood makes sure your floors remain level for years to come.
When installing a hardwood floor, plywood subflooring is an ideal option for providing a level and steadfast foundation for the final product. It helps to avoid warping or buckling of the planks in time by ensuring that they are stable and uniform. Plywood subflooring will be sure to make your hardwood installation last longer.
Benefits of Using OSB Subfloor
Cheaper than plywood:
OSB subflooring offers substantial financial savings over traditional plywood. Constructed from wood chips, OSB is made for a fraction of the cost of plywood which requires thin sheets of wood to adhere together. This makes it an ideal selection for construction professionals seeking value without sacrificing quality.
More uniform in strength and quality:
OSB subflooring is made when wood chips are compressed under high temperatures and pressure, resulting in a more uniform product than plywood. Unlike other materials that can contain weaker spots or knots, OSB guarantees a structurally sound result every time – making it an ideal choice for any construction project.
More moisture-resistant than traditional plywood:
If you’re looking for a more moisture-resistant flooring option, OSB subflooring is a perfect choice! Its manufacturing process employs waterproof resins and waxes to protect against warping or delaminating–especially in areas with high levels of humidity or moisture like basements and bathrooms. This makes it much stronger than traditional plywood so that your floors can stand up better to wear and tear.
Provides excellent structural support:
OSB subflooring is renowned for its incredible strength and durability, making it the perfect option when embarking on a project that requires heavy loads—such as floors or roofs. Its impressive resilience allows it to withstand tremendous weight without sacrificing stability; thus rendering OSB a dependable choice regardless of the size of your project.
Better for larger construction projects:
OSB subflooring is an ideal choice for larger construction projects that require a large amount of material due to its expansive sheet sizes. Fewer seams mean less time and effort spent on installation, while its consistent strength and quality render it dependable in any project size. Investing in OSB subflooring gives you the reliable assurance needed for your next big undertaking.
Available in larger sheets, reducing the number of seams needed:
OSB subflooring offers unparalleled ease of installation compared to traditional plywood, as its larger sheet sizes can cover more surface area with fewer seams. This expedites the construction process while also making it less susceptible to moisture and other environmental factors since there are fewer opportunities for them to penetrate the subflooring.
Better for use in underlayment and roofing:
The dependability and robustness of OSB subflooring make it the ideal choice for underlayment and roofing applications requiring superior structural support and moisture resistance. Every sheet is made with uniform strength, meaning that you can have absolute confidence in its unmatched capability to bear heavy loads while standing up to harsh weather conditions.
Offers better nail and screw holding capacity:
OSB subflooring is renowned for its exceptional nail and screw-holding capacity compared to conventional plywood. Its reliable density and strength make it more efficient in holding nails and screws securely, reducing the possibility of squeaking or shifting with time. Therefore, OSB is the perfect choice for finished flooring applications that need a level surface that stays stable over time.
RELATED: What Sizes Does OSB Come In?
How to Lay New Subfloor Over Old Subfloor In 10 Steps
Tools Needed
- OSB/Plywood sheets
- Vacuum cleaner
- Tack cloth
- Construction adhesive
- Wood filler
Laying a new subfloor over an old one can be a simple process if done correctly. Here are the ten steps to follow:
- Inspect the old subfloor: Before setting up a new subfloor over the existing one, it is important to inspect for any signs of damage. Search for tell-tale indicators of decay, water damage, or any other issues that could reduce the dependability and solidness of your fresh subflooring.
- Remove any damaged sections: When you find any damaged areas of the existing subflooring, quickly replace them with either plywood or OSB sheets. Confirm that your new sheet fits snugly before attaching it firmly to the old subfloor.
- Clean and vacuum the surface: To ensure a secure base for your new subfloor, take the time to clear away any debris or dust from the existing surface. Start by vacuuming and then sweeping it until all particles are removed.
- Apply construction adhesive: Once the surface is clean, apply construction adhesive to the existing subfloor. This will ensure that your new subfloor securely bonds with the old one for greater stability and longevity.
- Measure and cut the new subfloor sheets: Accurately measure the dimensions of your current subfloor and cut the new sheets of plywood or OSB to match. It’s recommended that you use 4 x 8 feet sheets, however, if necessary, smaller pieces are an option as well.
- Lay the first row of sheets: Start laying the new subfloor sheets at one end of the room, leaving a 1/8-inch gap between them. Make sure the sheets are flush with the wall and square with the old subfloor.
- Stagger the seams of the new subfloor sheets: To form a more secure subfloor, stagger the seams of each sheet so that their ends never meet in one spot. This way, you can ensure no weak points exist.
- Secure the subfloor with screws or nails: Begin the installation process by firmly securing the new subfloor to the old one with screws or nails. Use a nail gun or drill and insert fasteners every 6-8 inches along all seams of each sheet.
- Add blocking for additional support: To maintain the strength and support of your structure, insert blocking between joists. Make sure you cut the blocks to fit snugly between them before fastening them with screws or nails for a secure hold.
- Fill in any gaps with wood filler or caulk: After the new subfloor is securely installed, any spaces between sheets should be filled with wood filler or caulk – this step guarantees a level and smooth surface for your finished floor.
Major Differences: OSB vs Plywood Subfloor
When it comes to subfloors, two of the most popular options are plywood and oriented strand board (OSB). While both are engineered wood products, there are significant differences between the two that can impact their performance and suitability for specific applications. Here are ten major differences between OSB and plywood subfloors:
- Materials Used: Plywood is composed of thin wood veneers stacked and glued in alternating directions, while OSB utilizes strands arranged in layers that are held together by resin.
- Price: OSB is an economical choice for any individual looking to save without compromising quality. It’s significantly more affordable than plywood, so you can stick to your budget with ease.
- Moisture Resistance: Plywood is ordinarily resistant to moisture, yet it can still suffer damage if subjected to prolonged or excessive exposure. OSB has been fabricated in such a way that makes it more resilient compared to regular plywood and able to stand up against humidity better.
- Strength and Durability: Plywood is well-known for its sturdiness and reliability, making it the perfect choice for areas that endure high amounts of foot traffic. OSB also has the strength to boast about but may be more vulnerable when exposed to intense weight or impacts from objects.
- Resistance to Warping and Bowing: Plywood proves to be more dependable than OSB since it is less likely to bow or warp with time. Unfortunately, when exposed to moisture or other environmental conditions, OSB has a higher tendency of warping and sagging in comparison.
- Environmental Impact: Plywood is traditionally viewed as the more eco-friendly choice of the two due to its use of fewer adhesives and resins during construction compared to OSB. Both materials are crafted from wood, but plywood wins in terms of sustainability.
- Workability and Ease of Installation: Plywood offers a much more straightforward installation process than OSB as it is far less prone to splitting or delamination. On the other hand, OSB may be harder to work with because of its softer composition which renders it vulnerable to damage.
- Resistance to Splitting and Delamination: Plywood is much sturdier and more durable than OSB, so it’s the ideal choice when a subfloor might need to endure heavy or frequent loadings.
- Appearance and Finished Surface: Plywood not only has a more pleasing aesthetic but can also be sanded and finished to achieve a beautiful, smooth floor finish. On the contrary, OSB offers an unfinished texture that makes it unsuitable as the final surface layer.
- Applications: Plywood is a dynamic material that can be used for countless projects, such as subflooring and sheathing. On the other hand, OSB provides superior structural assistance to larger construction assignments like underlayment and roofing.
OSB vs Plywood Subfloor: Cost Comparison
When it comes to subflooring, the cost is a significant consideration for most homeowners and contractors. Plywood and OSB have different prices, which can impact the overall cost of a project.
When working on a large-scale project, such as covering an entire house, the cost of plywood can quickly add up. A 4×8-foot sheet of 3/4 inch thick plywood will typically range from $50-$75 depending upon grade and thickness; in comparison OSB averages between $22-$28 for the same size and thickness. Considering this cost difference may be wise to ensure your budget is managed efficiently
Considering the long-term financial benefits is essential when deciding between plywood and OSB. Plywood has an extended lifespan compared to OSB, meaning it requires fewer repairs or replacements over time. Even though choosing plywood may be more expensive initially, at the end you could save money due to its durability.
Alternatively, OSB is an inexpensive choice for projects where strength and longevity are not essential. For instance, when constructing a short-term structure or shed, OSB can provide the necessary backing at a lower cost.
When selecting between OSB and plywood subflooring, the final cost assessment depends on the individual project and the homeowner or contractor’s objectives. It is critical to consider not only the initial expense but also its long-term cost-efficiency when making a decision.
OSB vs Plywood Subfloor: Sound Transmission
The choice of subflooring material can impact the sound transmission within a building. Both OSB and plywood subfloors have different acoustic properties that affect how sound travels through a structure.
When noise reduction is a priority, plywood subfloors are the ideal choice. Their dense and solid structure effectively blocks sound waves to reduce sound transmission. Plus, these floors provide a more secure and stable surface for beautiful finishes that won’t produce creaks or squeaks – unlike OSB subflooring. Plywood’s acoustic properties make it an unrivaled option among floor materials in terms of providing quality sound control.
In comparison, OSB subfloors have a permeable and generally less dense composition that permits sound vibrations to pass through more simply. This could cause increased noise transmission between floors and may ultimately lead to creaks or squeaks in the substrate. Fortunately, it’s possible to quiet down an OSB subfloor by adding insulation or underlayment material into the flooring system.
OSB vs Plywood Subfloor: Environmental Impact
The production of OSB vs Plywood Subfloor subfloors has environmental impacts that should be considered when choosing between the two materials. Here are six environmental impacts of OSB and plywood production:
- Resource consumption: Both materials are derived from renewable wood resources, yet the production of plywood calls for more timber than OSB because of its thicker layers.
- Energy consumption: Compared to plywood, the production of OSB involves less energy because it is created through pressing wood strands and resin with heat and pressure, whereas plywood is formed by slicing logs into veneers and then attaching them.
- Greenhouse gas emissions: OSB production is more environmentally friendly than plywood manufacturing as it requires significantly less energy, resulting in much fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
- Chemical use: While the production of both materials requires adhesives, OSB utilizes formaldehyde-free resins while plywood might use a combination of formaldehyde and other hazardous chemicals.
- Production: OSB production is more environmentally friendly than plywood production since it uses wood scraps that would have otherwise been thrown out by other industries.
- Recycling and disposal: While both plywood and OSB can be recycled, the former is simpler to recycle because it consists of one sheet of wood. In contrast, recycling OSB requires its breaking down into smaller pieces. Disposing of these materials in a landfill will only further contribute to deforestation and release hazardous gases into the atmosphere.
To ensure the responsible management of forests and encourage sustainability, two certification programs exist The Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Both OSB and plywood are eligible for these certifications, empowering businesses to make informed decisions about their wooden products.
Not only is the sustainability of materials important, but their durability and longevity are paramount in determining their overall environmental impact. If a subfloor has to be replaced often due to warping or moisture damage, it can lead to increased waste production and resource depletion over time.
To determine which is more environmentally-friendly between OSB vs plywood subflooring, it is essential to evaluate each product’s resource consumption and energy usage, as well as their respective greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, one must consider chemical use for both products and how much waste can be lessened or recycled when disposing of either material. Take into account if there are also any available certified sustainable alternatives on the market too.
OSB vs Plywood Subfloor: Code Requirements
Code requirements for subfloor materials vary depending on the region and construction type. For example, the International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC) have different requirements for subfloor materials. Additionally, different regions may have specific codes and regulations.
Upholding structural integrity and safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to subfloors, which must meet a minimum level of thickness and deflection. The material used for constructing these floors will ultimately determine whether or not they align with legal standards.
Both OSB and plywood subfloors can meet local building regulations, as long as they reach the required thickness and deflection capabilities. But please note that certain codes might have particular requirements or endorsements for one material over another. For instance, according to the IRC codebook, it is suggested to use at least 23/32 inches of plywood boards while 7/8 inches of OSB should be enough if used instead.
It’s significant to thoroughly investigate the applicable codes and regulations in your region, as well as consult a certified contractor or building inspector, to guarantee that your subfloor adheres to all criteria for security and conformity.
FAQs: OSB vs Plywood Subfloor
What is the difference between OSB and plywood?
The main difference between OSB and plywood is their composition and the manufacturing process used to produce them. OSB is typically cheaper than plywood and is more uniform in strength and quality, while plywood has better moisture resistance and is generally considered to be more durable.
Can I use OSB subfloor in a bathroom?
Yes, OSB can be used as a subfloor material in a bathroom. However, it is important to ensure that the OSB is properly installed and sealed to prevent moisture infiltration, which can cause the material to swell and deteriorate over time. It is recommended to use a waterproof membrane, such as a cement backer board or a vapor barrier, between the subfloor and the finished flooring to provide additional protection against moisture.
How thick should a subfloor be?
The thickness of a subfloor depends on the span between the floor joists and the type of flooring that will be installed. In general, a minimum thickness of 5/8 inches is recommended for both OSB and plywood subfloors. However, for larger spans or heavier flooring types, such as tile or stone, a thicker subfloor may be required to provide adequate support.
How do I know if my subfloor needs replacing?
Several signs may indicate the need to replace a subfloor, including sagging or uneven flooring, visible water damage or mold, creaking or squeaking sounds, and a feeling of softness or sponginess underfoot. If you notice any of these signs, it is recommended to have a professional inspect the subfloor to determine the extent of the damage and whether replacement is necessary.
Should I use adhesive when installing a subfloor?
Using adhesive when installing a subfloor can help to improve its stability and reduce the risk of squeaking or movement over time. Construction adhesive is typically applied to the top of the floor joists before the subfloor sheets are installed, and screws or nails are used to secure the subfloor to the joists.
Can I install hardwood flooring directly on top of OSB or plywood subfloor?
Yes, hardwood flooring can be installed directly on top of both OSB and plywood subfloors, as long as the subfloor is properly prepared and meets the manufacturer’s requirements. It is recommended to use a moisture barrier between the subfloor and the hardwood flooring to prevent moisture infiltration and protect the flooring from damage.
Conclusion On OSB vs Plywood Subfloor
The major factors to consider when deciding which type of subfloor material will work best for your home are cost, ease of installation, water resistance, weight load capacity, durability over time, sizes offered by manufacturers, appearance/attractiveness of surface finish compared to plywood or OSB, and how easy it is to clean.
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