Reading Your OSB Stamp

July 1, 2002
Professional Builder

Knowing how to decipher the stamp found on oriented strand board can save time and money. The top of the stamp bears the name of one of three agencies — TECO, APA and PSI — that certify the panels to the performance standards mandated by the six top North American building codes. Below the agency’s name is the name of the standard: PS-2 for the U.S. Commerce Department’s wood-based standard or, in Canada, CSA 0325 for construction sheathing or CSA 0437 for waferboard. All three set maximums for deflection under load and dimensional stability, and minimums for strength, stiffness and lateral nail loads.

For more information go to www.osbguide.com.

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