When you are roofing a design, you need to select the right type of plywood. Various kinds of plywood have different characteristics that determine their viability for roofing. Constructing or restoring a roof is no small job – it can be unsafe and very time-consuming. That’s why it’s significant to know what you’re doing before getting started. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make when roofing is which kind of plywood to use. Each type of plywood has its own set of pros and cons, so choosing the wrong one could lead to disaster. In this article, we’ll guide you what to look for when finding plywood for your roof and give you a few tips on how to get the most out of your investment. Let’s get started!
1. Being familiar with Plywood Grades
There are three main kinds of plywood: interior, exterior, and marine. Interior plywood is meant for indoor use only and is not suitable for roofing. Exterior plywood is designed for outdoor use and is often used in construction ventures. Marine plywood is a specialized type of exterior plywood that is designed to endure rot and moisture. It is often used in boatbuilding. When picking plywood for your roof, you need to ensure that it is rated for exterior use. Otherwise, it will not be able to withstand the elements and could break down over time.
2. Take into account The Size Of The Plywood
The thickness of the plywood you choose will depend on the pitch of your roof. A pitch is the angle of the roof, and it is calculated by the number of inches the roof rises for every 12 inches it runs. For example, a 3/12 pitch roof has 3 inches of rise for every 12 inches of run. A steep-pitched roof will require heavier plywood than a low-pitched one. Generally speaking, you will require at least 1/2-inch thick plywood for a low-pitched roof and at least 5/8-inch thick plywood for a steep-pitched roof.
3. Select The Right Kind Of Plywood
There are two types of exterior plywood: CDX and OSB. CDX plywood is made from tiers of cross-laminated veneer and is held together with waterproof adhesives. It is the most common type of plywood used in construction and is suitable for most roofing projects. OSB, or Oriented Strand Board, is made from smaller sized pieces of wood that are oriented in different directions and then pressurized and glued together. It is less common than CDX plywood but is growing in popularity due to its affordability.
4. Take into consideration The Cost Of The Plywood
Plywood comes in a variety of prices, so it’s important to look at your budget when choosing a sheet. CDX plywood is typically the most expensive, followed by OSB, with marine plywood being the most expensive type of all. That said, the price of plywood can vary depending on the thickness, grade, and type of wood used. Be sure to review prices from various providers before making your final decision.
5. Get The Right Tools For The Work
Once you’ve chosen the perfect plywood for your roofing project, it’s time to get the right resources for the job. Make sure you have a durable ladder that can support your weight, as well as a helper to assist you with the project. You’ll also need a saw and some basic carpentry resources to cut the plywood to size. If you’re not confident in your ability to install the plywood yourself, it’s best to hire a professional roofer to do the job for you.
So, what is the best plywood for roofing? The solution to that question really depends on your specific requirements and preferences. If you are looking for an reasonably priced choice that will get the job done, then standard construction-grade plywood should work just fine. However, if you are searching for something with a bit more of a premium feel, then you may want to consider using higher quality plywood like birch or oak. Whichever type of plywood you choose, be sure to contact us so that we can help you install it properly and ensure its longevity. https://themocracy.com/what-type-of-plywood-is-used-for-roofing/