Sizes and prices of OSB plates: properties, advantages and disadvantages
Sizes and prices of OSB plates: properties, advantages and disadvantages of the material
Oriented particle boards have tightly entered modern construction, replacing the once popular chipboard panels. The multilayer structure combined with the high quality of the wood used gives this material excellent technical characteristics. Let’s consider in the article the properties, features, sizes and prices of OSB plates, as well as common areas of their application.
OSB plate is a construction and finishing material for a wide purpose
OSB plates: what are they, and what are they like
In order to properly and effectively use such panels in work, you need to know that the OSB plate is a building material that consists of wood elements, the so–called large-sized chips. These particles are interconnected by exposure to high temperature and pressure, as well as water-resistant resin.
From chipboard, such plates differ mainly in the arrangement of chips in layers: the transverse direction is characteristic of the inner part of the plate, but longitudinally the chips are placed outside. So, due to several layers (most often three, sometimes four) and alternating directions of the location of chips, a durable and reliable building material is obtained.
Modern OSB plate is a structural building material made of wood
As a basis for the manufacture of such plates, chips with a length of 7.5 to 15 cm are used . At the same time, the width and thickness of the chips should also be within the norm – 1-1.2 cm and 0.5-0.8 mm, respectively. Smaller elements are not used for the production of OSB, they are transported for the manufacture of chipboard.
Depending on the thickness, as well as the weight of the OSB plate, all products are divided by manufacturers into three main classes:
- OSP 1 is the lightest and simplest version of the plate. Its use is limited to simple works that do not involve too heavy a load on the surface. In addition, the material does not tolerate an increase in air humidity;
- OSP 2 is a more durable option, the use of which is permissible even when mounting load–bearing structures. However, this material also reacts negatively to the effects of moisture;
- OSP 3 is the most expensive, but at the same time the best option. This class of plates is not afraid of either serious loads or high humidity. The operation of this building material is permissible even in the harshest conditions.
The use of OSB plates in the modern interior of a cafe
Technology of production of OSB plates
In order to better understand the intricacies of the use and characteristics of OSB, it is necessary to know how and from what they are obtained. Let’s consider a brief manufacturing technology of this material.
The first stage is the selection of suitable wood. The trunks of a fine-grained non-week tree are pre-selected and sawn into small parts that serve as blanks. Then a special machine grinds them, turning them into a chip tape. Depending on the needs of production, you can set a different size of chips, which is obtained at the output. After drying, the material enters the machine, where small chips are separated from large ones.
After the chips of the desired size are sorted, binding elements are added to them for mixing. Most often these are phenolic or isocyanate substances that give the future plate internal strength and moisture resistance. The resulting mixture is mixed with paraffin and resins in a special drum.
The formation of the plate itself begins with the process of laying the chips in layers along and across. For this purpose, a special machine equipped with scales and magnets is used.
The drying process of the formed OSB plates
When the potential plate has found its shape, the pressing process is carried out, exerting a pressure of 5 N / mm2. The increased temperature and pressure ensure a strong adhesion of the elements, forming a single solid plate, which after cooling is cut into products of the desired size.
Scope of application of OSB plates
Due to its characteristics and affordable price, chipboard OSB is widely used in many areas. Here are just a few of the most basic applications of this material:
- installation of OSB plates on walls (both from the outside and from the inside);
- laying floors of OSB slabs;
- construction of both temporary and permanent partitions;
- creation of structural elements in low-rise construction;
- creating a solid crate for further laying of roofing material.
Roofing of OSB slabs
OSB plates: dimensions and technical characteristics
The technical characteristics of OSB plates will pleasantly surprise even the most experienced builder. Below we will consider what the main properties of this material make it so attractive.
Ease of processing. Having a standard set of carpentry tools, you can easily fully work with the OSB plate. To give it the right size and shape, you can saw it, cut it, plan it or grind it. And in order to provide it with a reliable fastening, you can drill or punch holes for fasteners in it.
High retention capacity. Large chip elements used in the production process allow nails to be hammered into the plate even at a minimum distance from the edge (up to 6 mm) without the risk of chipping. OSB perfectly holds fasteners.
OSB plates are very widely used in construction
Also, carpentry glue can be used as a method of fixing the plate.
Useful advice! If you plan to use a sheet of OSB as an exterior finishing material, then be sure to protect it with a special paint composition.
The density of the plate. This indicator for standard OSP 3 (the value may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer) is about 640 kg/m3.
Moisture resistance. Despite its woody origin, OSB plates react to contact with moisture absolutely calmly. Of course, they can deform under the influence of water, but this reaction is noticeable only if the humidity rises above 65%. Up to this point, the plate is able to withstand changes, fully preserving its appearance and characteristics. The most resistant to moisture is the OSP 3 plate. Products of the first class, respectively, have the lowest water resistance.
Fire safety of oriented chipboard. In the process of studying the technical characteristics of OSP 3 plates, this item raised many questions. After all, small particles of wood can easily ignite, and can pose an additional danger in the event of a fire. However, multiple experiments have proved that it is possible to use the material for the construction of residential buildings. However, it is advisable to combine it with non-flammable fillers or insulation materials, for example, mineral wool.
Construction of a house made of OSB slabs
The dimensions of oriented chipboards can be different, depending on the product class and the way its edges are processed. Products of the OSP 3 class with such dimensions are considered to be classic:
- 2500×1250 and 2440×1220 mm, provided that the edges of the plate are cut evenly;
- 2500×1250, 2450×590, 2440×590 and 2440×1220 mm for plates with tongue and groove.
Depending on the purpose and type of product, the thickness of the plate can range from 9 to 22 mm.
Related article:
OSB sheets: thickness and dimensions, prices, technical characteristics. Parameters, classification, production methods and fields of application. Technical characteristics of various types.
Advantages and disadvantages of using OSB plates
Based on some experience with the use of OSB plates, the characteristics of this material, as well as reviews, it is possible to draw certain conclusions regarding the pros and cons of this material. Advantages of using OSB:
- the probability of delamination, splitting or the appearance of chips is almost completely absent, due to the homogeneous structure of the plate;
- properly oriented wood chips prevent the penetration of moisture, and also makes it possible to hammer nails into the plate without fear;
- OSB plates are easy to cut, saw, etc.;
Stylish interior of the apartment with OSB slabs
- the comb-groove method is excellent for connecting the plates to each other;
- the plates are insensitive to sudden temperature changes and moderate weight loads;
- structures built from OSB plates have an irreplaceable quality – elasticity. This allows them to better tolerate any tremors than, for example, stone structures.;
- with the appropriate certificate, the finished product is completely safe for human health;
- for all its advantages and characteristics, OSB plates retain an affordable cost. Depending on the thickness and size, the price of the OSB 3 plate can start from 580 rubles per sheet.
It is difficult to note any serious shortcomings of this product. The only thing worth remembering is that working with any wood materials requires respiratory protection. Resins that are part of wood dust are carcinogens that are unsafe for human health. Otherwise, it is quite difficult to find the disadvantages. It is enough just to see photos of OSB slabs on the Internet to understand how widely they are used in construction, and how many projects can be implemented with their help.
The use of OSB boards in modern interior design
Is there any harm to human health from the use of OSB plates
Oriented chipboard is called a completely environmentally friendly material. However, despite this, you can hear a lot of different opinions claiming about the terrible danger that OSP plates are fraught with. Let’s try to figure out whether these concerns are justified, and whether there is a real threat to health in the case of using these products.
According to the statements of those who believe in the insecurity of compounds used for the manufacture of phenol-formaldehyde, carbamide-formaldehyde and melamine-formaldehyde resins are of synthetic origin. And although it is they who endow OSB plates with all those qualities for which they are so highly valued, if they do not comply with the manufacturing technique, they may be unsafe even after complete solidification.
Useful advice! Particular attention to the certification of the purchased product should be paid to those people who have a predisposition to allergic reactions, as well as families with young children.
The dangers posed by excessive release of such carcinogenic impurities as formaldehyde, phenol, benzene and methanol are very serious. This is fraught with the appearance of skin allergic reactions and the likelihood of developing serious diseases. As a result of exposure to these substances, disorders of the cardiovascular system are often noted.
OSB plates are widely used in any construction and construction of houses
How is this problem solved? In order to minimize the risks of negative effects of substances on the human body, a special classification has been developed, which provides for the permissibility of using each type of OSB plates in certain conditions.
Marking of OSB plates
In order to make sure that the manufactured products comply with GOST and SNIP, every major manufacturer is obligatorily obliged to provide its products for sanitary and hygienic examination. So, each batch of goods receives its own certificate, which indicates which tests have been carried out and how safe these products are for use in residential premises.
The European standard DIN EN120, which has been recognized in Russia, provides for the following classification, depending on the amount of formaldehyde contained in the product. Per 100 grams of dry matter:
- E3 – up to 30 mg;
- E2 – 10-20 mg;
- E1 – up to 10 mg;
- E0 – up to 6.5 mg.
Marking of the OSP-3 plate
Useful advice! To better understand the proposed figures, think about the fact that normally the amount of formaldehyde in the air does not exceed 0.003 mg per 1 m3, while industrial water contains up to 0.5 mg / l.
Thus, the quality of the products must be documented, especially for OSB plates for interior decoration. The harmfulness is not displayed in the certificate, but the minimum safety class is indicated. The use of products marked E2 and E3 for interior work is strictly prohibited! Such materials are used only for exterior cladding or for finishing non-residential premises, for example, attics, cabins and sheds.
Despite the serious danger, it is relatively easy to find safe products. Most major manufacturers, in addition to mandatory inspections, on their own initiative, submit their products to a variety of tests. However, unfortunately, this applies mainly to foreign companies. Domestic manufacturers cannot boast of this yet.
OSB plates are a universal building material
What you should pay attention to when buying OSB plates
Before you pay and pick up the goods you purchased, pay attention to the following nuances:
- the sharp smell of formalin or plastic is the sign that clearly indicates the increased toxicity of the product;
- when buying, be sure to request for yourself a copy of the certificate, certified by the seal of the supplier or manufacturer, and confirming the safety of the products;
- before you pick up the goods, inspect the packaging. It must be solid, have a label and additional insert sheets with product information;
- once again, make sure that the safety class of the purchased material is not higher than E0 or E1.
If you are attentive and take responsibility for the choice and purchase of OSB plates, then there will be no real threat to your health.
Packed OSB sheets
Manufacturers, sizes and prices of OSB plates
As already mentioned, one of the advantages of oriented chipboard is an affordable price category. By purchasing OSB, you get the same natural wood, but at a better price.
The first thing on which the price of OSB depends is the size of the plate and the manufacturer. Depending on what kind of filler is used in the manufacturing process, the cost will fluctuate.
On average, 1 m2 of the simplest OSB made in the EU or the USA will cost you from 180 to 400 rubles. Of course, if you make a wholesale purchase and order several cubic meters of goods at once, you will be given significant discounts. But most often buyers prefer to buy sheets by the piece.
Interior decoration of the house with OSB slabs
For example, the price of an OSB slab for a floor can start from 590 rubles and reach up to 1,430 rubles apiece. The prices of OSB slabs for exterior decoration have a slightly smaller range – from the lower limit of 550 to the upper limit of 1051 rubles per piece.
Technical characteristics, manufacturers and average cost of OSB 3 plates:
| Manufacturer | Characteristics of OSB plates (Class 3) | Price per sheet, rub. | ||||
| Size, mm | Thickness, mm | Weight, kg | Density, kg/m3 | Area, m2 | ||
| Kalevala (Russia) | 2500×1250 | 9 | 17,5 | 620 | 3,125 | 480 |
| 12 | 24,5 | 600 | ||||
| Kronospan (Romania) | 9 | 17,2 | 630 | 480 | ||
| 12 | 24 | 600 | ||||
| Bolderaja (Latvia) | 9 | 17,2 | 630 | 600 | ||
| 12 | 24 | 700 | ||||
| Glunz (Germany) | 9 | 17,7 | 640 | 750 | ||
| 12 | 23,6 | 1380 | ||||
| 15 | 30 | 1540 | ||||
| Egger (Romania) | 9 | 17,2 | 620 | 600 | ||
| 12 | 22,9 | 830 | ||||
| 15 | 28,6 | 1100 | ||||
| 18 | 34,3 | 1300 | ||||
| Norbord Sterling (Canada) | 9 | 18,5 | 600 | 530 | ||
| 2440×1220 | 12 | 25,1 | 2,98 | 710 | ||
Of course, a lot depends on the class of the plate, as well as on its size and thickness. But as we can see from the table, even products with very similar technical characteristics may differ in price only because of the manufacturer.
Features of installation of OSB plates
Construction oriented chipboard, like any other material, has its own characteristics and installation requirements. Let’s look at some of them on the example of the exterior cladding of the walls of the house.
External cladding of the walls of the house with OSB plates
Firstly, materials with a thickness of 11 to 13 mm are chosen for exterior decoration. Secondly, the larger the area of the sheets that you use, the fewer joints you will have to process.
Between the two sheets at the time of attaching them to the racks, it is necessary to leave a small gap – no more than 3-5 mm. This is done so that when the humidity of the air increases, the plate can swell, and at the same time not deform.
In order to attach the OSB plate to the wall surface, you can use both self-tapping screws and spiral nails. However, it is unanimously recognized that the best method of fastening is combined. To use both options at the same time means to provide the most reliable fixation possible.
Useful advice! In order to prevent situations when a crack appears from the fastener to the edge of the plate, it is recommended to make an indent of 7-10 mm.
Example of a frame house wall design
Another important point is the arrangement of waterproofing and wind protection. To do this, use a special super diffusion membrane, which copes with these functions perfectly and at the same time removes moisture from the walls, not allowing condensation to accumulate. Some are trying to replace it with ordinary polyethylene to save money. However, the problem is that a simple film does not contribute to the removal of moisture, which over time can lead to rotting processes of the material.
Such a wide popularity of oriented chipboard is quite understandable, because not so many materials can compete with them, having fought for the championship not only with technical characteristics, but also with a price range.
As for the disadvantages associated with the danger of this product to human health, it only requires time to devote to this – once to sort out the issue and pick up a safe class OSP. And the rest is a very convenient, practical and modern material that can rightfully stand on a par with wood.
