Wet OSB Should be Usable

By Tim Carter
©1993-2008 Tim Carter

Summary: OSB or oriented strand board is made with special glues that can take getting wet repeatedly. Check to make sure it is in good shape and then use it.

Related Articles: Wet Plywood and OSB, Plywood and OSB, OSB Quality

Dear Tim: I have some 4x8 sheets of 7/16" OSB that I have been storing pending the construction of a private 10'x20' storage shed. The OSB got wet and appears to be waterlogged. It is holding together though quite well, and not breaking up. Will it be usable as sheathing for wall and roof construction and will it dry out? Thanks, Dean.

Dear Dean: The OSB board will indeed be fine if you are sure that it is not falling apart. It is actually made with special glues that can get wet repeatedly. I suggest you let them dry in a shaded area, not in direct sunlight, and do so as soon as possible.

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