When starting a construction project, builders often ask, “Should I use OSB or plywood?” Both materials are widely used in roofing, wall sheathing, and flooring. Choosing the right one can affect the strength, budget, and long-term performance of a build. Understanding the key differences helps contractors make smarter, code-compliant decisions.
What Is OSB?
Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is made from layers of wood strands bonded together with resin and wax under heat and pressure. RoyOMartin manufactures panels that meet APA standards for performance and code compliance. OSB is commonly used for wall sheathing, roofing, and subflooring because it offers strong dimensional stability, especially in uniform applications.
One standout product is TuffStrand® WRB. This OSB panel combines a structural sheathing base with a factory-applied water-resistive barrier. It reduces the need for house wrap, saves time on installation, and offers reliable moisture protection during construction.
What Is Plywood?
Plywood is made by gluing together thin sheets of wood veneer, with each layer’s grain direction rotated for added strength. RoyOMartin’s plywood products are used in many of the same ways as OSB: in roofing, subflooring, and sheathing. Plywood is especially valued for its stiffness, surface quality, and resistance to splitting when nailed.
OSB vs Plywood: Key Differences
- Strength: Both meet structural requirements, but plywood may handle heavy point loads better. OSB is more consistent in panel strength across sheets.
- Moisture Resistance: OSB absorbs water more slowly but dries more slowly than plywood. However, TuffStrand WRB helps mitigate moisture concerns.
- Cost: OSB is usually more affordable than plywood, especially in bulk.
For more comparisons, check the APA Engineered Wood Association guidelines.
Best Applications for Each
Use OSB for:
- Roof decking
- Wall sheathing
- Subfloors in dry or covered environments
Use plywood for:
- Roofs or subfloors in rainy regions during long construction phases
- Areas where more fastener holding strength is needed
NAHB’s building material guide provides additional use-case recommendations for both materials.
Cost and Longevity Factors
If budget is a concern, OSB offers a lower upfront cost without sacrificing code compliance. Over time, both materials can last decades if properly installed and protected. Builders should also consider warranty and manufacturer support when selecting materials.
Environmental Considerations
RoyOMartin supports sustainable forestry and efficient manufacturing. Their safety and sustainability practices ensure that wood products are responsibly sourced and meet environmental guidelines. OSB panels use smaller, fast-growing trees, reducing waste and promoting forest regeneration.
Learn more about the company’s long-standing commitment to responsible forestry on the About RoyOMartin page.
The choice between OSB and plywood depends on your specific project. OSB is cost-effective, consistent, and ideal for many structural needs. Products like TuffStrand WRB offer added protection where moisture is a concern. Plywood is a better fit when you need fast drying or superior stiffness. Whatever you choose, RoyOMartin provides trusted, code-compliant options for every jobsite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between OSB and plywood?
OSB is made from wood strands and resin, while plywood is made from layers of veneer. Both serve similar purposes but differ in moisture behavior and cost. - Which is stronger: OSB or plywood?
Plywood handles point loads slightly better, but OSB offers consistent strength and meets structural code requirements. - Is OSB better for roofing than plywood?
OSB is commonly used for roof decking. TuffStrand WRB is a top choice when water resistance and installation efficiency are priorities. - Does plywood handle moisture better than OSB?
Plywood absorbs and releases moisture faster, but OSB with WRB coating like TuffStrand can improve performance in damp conditions. - Which is more affordable: OSB or plywood?
OSB is generally less expensive than plywood and widely used in cost-sensitive projects. - Are OSB panels eco-friendly?
Yes. RoyOMartin OSB uses smaller, fast-growing trees and sustainable practices to reduce forest impact. - How does OSB compare to plywood in load-bearing applications?
Both meet structural codes, but plywood may resist bending more. OSB is great for distributed loads like sheathing. - Which product lasts longer in outdoor projects?
Both can last decades if properly protected. Plywood may perform better in exposed conditions without a protective barrier. - Does OSB meet building code requirements?
Yes. RoyOMartin OSB is APA-certified and meets all national code requirements. - Which panel is best for hurricane-prone areas?
TuffStrand WRB and WindBrace OSB panels offer excellent wind resistance when properly installed and fastened.