To obtain a copy of a specific publication, users should contact the publication's publisher directly.
Abstract
There has been ongoing discussion within the roofing industry regarding the suitability of oriented strand board (OSB) as a substrate for steep-slope roofing systems. The Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) membership has reported concerns in regions where steep-slope roofing systems undergo multiple replacements, most often due to hail damage. In such cases, OSB has shown poorer long-term performance (e.g. material loss during roof removal and greater sensitivity to moisture) compared to plywood, with substrates frequently requiring removal and replacement after several reroofing cycles.
There has been ongoing discussion within the roofing industry regarding the suitability of oriented strand board (OSB) as a substrate for steep-slope roofing systems. The Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) membership has reported concerns in regions where steep-slope roofing systems undergo multiple replacements, most often due to hail damage. In such cases, OSB has shown poorer long-term performance (e.g. material loss during roof removal and greater sensitivity to moisture) compared to plywood, with substrates frequently requiring removal and replacement after several reroofing cycles.
Date
11/2025
11/2025
Author(s)
Page(s)
1-6
1-6
Keyword(s)
wood panel, OSB, plywood, moisture cycle, fastener pullout, fastener withdrawal
wood panel, OSB, plywood, moisture cycle, fastener pullout, fastener withdrawal