Roofers generally love plywood because it is water resistant, structurally stable, and cheap. The layers that make up a plywood are glued together in a way that gives it strength and durability. Its characteristics make it a commonly used building material. There are many different types of plywood made for different uses and functions.
What is Plywood?
Plywood is made from thin sheets called veneers shaved from a log. These sheets are then laminated together in a hot press. One advantage plywood offers is that when it gets wet and swells, it will return to its original size as it dries up.
Is plywood used in roofing? Yes, plywood is used as part of your roof. It is commonly used for roof sheathing. If you are not a roofing professional, then roof sheathing will be a foreign term for you.
So what is Roof Sheathing?
Trusses and rafters form the skeleton of your roof. These trusses are usually 16 inches or 24 inches apart. To support the rafters and trusses and to hold the entire roof together, your roofing professional will install roof sheathing. Roof sheathing plays an important role in holding your roof together when high-force winds hit your home. This is why roof sheathing must be done only by roofing professionals to ensure that it is properly installed.
CDX is the most commonly used plywood grade for roof sheathing. It comes in standard 4-by-8 foot sheets, and is strong and lightweight.
Are there other Materials used for Roof Sheathing?
Aside from plywood, roofing specialists also use other materials for roof sheathing. These are:
- Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
These boards come in 4-by-8-foot panels and are used interchangeably with plywood. It is relatively cheaper compared to plywood, but does not have the same nail-holding power of plywood.
- Tongue and Groove
This is usually installed in a structure where a ceiling will not be installed, so it will be visible from inside the house.
- Step Sheathing
This is commonly used for tile or shingle roofs. The spacing of the boards allow air to circulate.
- V-Rustic
These are 1-by-8 boards commonly used on eave and rake overhangs. These boards are more attractive than plain plywood.
Depending on the type of roof you home has, your roof sheathing will have different thicknesses. To get the right kind of sheathing for your home and the roof material that you use, contact a roofing professional. A professional roofer will ensure that your home will have a roof sheathing tailor-fitted for its needs.
Written by Enrich Construction, the best service for roofing in Columbia, MO.