Plywood Sheathing

Definition

Plywood sheathing is a flat panel made up of a number of thin sheets, or veneers, of wood used to close up side walls or roofs preparatory to the installation of finish materials on the surface.

Purpose

Plywood sheathing provides structural support, rigidity, and a nailing base for finish materials in construction. It helps to distribute loads and adds strength to walls and roofs.

Examples of Use

• Wall Sheathing: Used as an exterior layer to support siding and provide structural strength.
• Roof Sheathing: Installed on roof frames to support roofing materials and withstand wind and snow loads.
• Subflooring: Used as a base layer for flooring materials, adding stability and strength to floors.

Related Terms

• OSB (Oriented Strand Board): An alternative to plywood made from compressed wood strands and adhesive.
• Structural Sheathing: Materials used to provide structural strength and rigidity to building frames.
• Panel: A flat, typically rectangular piece of material used in construction.

Notes

• Installation: Plywood sheathing should be installed with proper spacing and fasteners to ensure structural integrity and prevent warping.
• Grades: Available in various grades, with higher grades offering better strength and finish quality.