I’m using OSB decking on my second floor addition. I notice that the sheets have printed on them “this side down” on one side. I screwed up and installed one sheet upside down. Is this going to cause a problem? What’s the difference between the two sides?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
From plumbing failures to environmental near disasters, OHJ staffers dish on our worst and best moments.
Featured Video
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
Two points:
First, your question...the "this side down" is because the T&G on OSB is not neccessarily symetrical. By placing the "this side down" down, it ensures all the tongues will fit nicely into all the grooves. Structurally, there is no right or wrong side.
If you got it to mate nicely and there isn't an offset between the adjacent sheets due to a tongue going into a groove inverted, don't sweat it. If there is an offset, just sand down the high part with a belt sander if it's that much of a concern or if it's that significant.
Second, and not related to your question...some osb has one side smooth, the other side with texture. When sheathing an inclined roof, the rough side up can give a bit more traction underfoot.
I wouldn't worry about it. Like Mongo said it's something that can't be fixed easily or doesn't really matter in your case.
Nothing a good carpet pad won't fix. :-)
Dave
Thanks for your help!