WindBrace®

What is WindBrace®?
WindBrace® OSB sidewall sheathing is engineered 1 1/8 inches longer than traditional sheets, allowing a single panel to span from the sill plate to the top plate in qualifying wall assemblies. This extended length can reduce blocking and filler strips and, when designed and installed in accordance with applicable engineering and code requirements, can eliminate certain separate wall-uplift connectors. Windbrace® offers a cost-effective OSB sidewall solution for meeting code in hurricane and windprone areas.

Why is WindBrace® longer than a standard panel?
The extra 1 1/8″ allows a single panel to lap the sill plate and top plate in one continuous piece. In qualifying assemblies, that continuous panel connection can transfer uplift loads through the sheathing system and reduce the need for certain separate wall-uplift connectors, subject to the approved design, fastening schedule, and local code requirements.

Does WindBrace® replace hurricane straps?
WindBrace® is engineered so qualifying wall assemblies can eliminate certain separate wall-uplift connectors. Whether that applies to a specific project depends on the structural design, fastening schedule, applicable product report, and local building codes. Review the official WindBrace® Building Code Documentation and confirm the assembly with your project engineer or local building official before installation.

What sizes does WindBrace® come in?
WindBrace® is 48 inches wide (nominal) in a 7/16 performance category, with additional thicknesses available, in extended lengths.

Is WindBrace® code approved for high-wind zones?
WindBrace® meets DOC PS2 and PRP-108 and is verified by APA – The Engineered Wood Association (mill number 511) and RIMA-I. Roy O. Martin publishes WindBrace® Building Code Documentation for permitting and plan review.

Where is WindBrace® typically used?
WindBrace® is used on sidewall panels to prevent uplift, making them a perfect match for coastal homes, Gulf Coast developments, and any region that takes a regular beating from storms or hurricanes. It is an incredibly smart, cost-effective OSB solution that gives builders an affordable way to meet strict structural codes in hurricane-prone areas without blowing the budget.

How does WindBrace® save labor?
By using oversized panels to completely eliminate horizontal joints, you build much stronger wall structures while saving major time on the job site. WindBrace® lets you skip all the tedious labor normally spent cutting filler strips, installing blocking, and fastening separate uplift hardware, making it a faster, simpler way to hit your structural goals.

Is WindBrace® available FSC® certified?
Yes. All Roy O. Martin products are available Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified.