How to use:

Select your building application and the OSB Specification Tool will provide a range of options,  including  different thicknesses and their related bending strength and stiffness.

APA markets three types of trademarked OSB panels for the EU and the UK – Rated OSB Sheathing, Structural 1 and APA Rated Sturd I -Floor. Structural I denotes a performance-rated panel, with superior bending stiffness and strength.

APA trademarked OSB panels are manufactured to Exposure 1 standards, equivalent to the OSB/2 classification for load bearing panels used in dry conditions. They have the same adhesive as exterior plywood panels but are not suitable for long-term exposure to the weather. Bond classification refers to the moisture resistance of the glue bond and therefore the panel’s structural integrity. For more on moisture environments, go here.

Panel thickness and support spacing (called Span Rating on a US panel) should be considered together. For ease of use, the Specification Tool converts thicknesses into mm measurement, providing the midpoint as well as tolerance ranges.  Span Rating refers to the maximum permitted centre to centre spacing of supports. It is particularly important for  Rated Sheathing and Rated Sturd-I-Floor when the long panel dimension or strength axis is across two or more supports. 

More on OSB, here. Download the APA Construction Guide for further info.