I am wondering how long osb should be exposed to the wx? Helping to build Habitat for Humanity house where osb is used for sidewall and roof sheeting. Current house has been exposed the the wx for close to 2 mos now. Some areas show swelling, many areas seem to be changing due to sun exposure (surface feels rougher).
Is there a mfg requirement to get it covered? Thanks
Replies
The swelling and roughening don't ctually affect the structural integity too much. OSB gets it's strength from the continuous bonding of fibers throughout the sheet. Some sources have the exposure at 6months being OK.
A LITTLE swelling (1/8") is OK, but if it's going to be the roof deck or floor, knock it down with an angle grinder and sanding disk.
Rough sides that only go a layer deep are OK, that's as deep and the sun and moisture normally get on a wall... if you can easily take off multiple layers your OSB is compromised.
Tarps are a cheap way of buying time on a long project.
Oficially, thoirty days
Practically, until swelling starts
For you - now