Check Out the ULTIMATE CARPENTRY CHECKLIST!! *Get your free interactive ebook here* : www.thehonestcarpenter.com/the-ultimate-carpentry-checklist This *150-item Visual Glossary* covers every important topic in carpentry. Check off the tools you have, the concepts you understand. And if you don't know a topic, just click on it for an explanation. Every carpenter and DIYer needs this free guide!
I used 7/16 OSB to finish the walls in my shop instead of drywall 20 years ago. I put it up with the more textured side out. Painted white it gives an interesting texture wall finish. And being in a shop, you can attach anything anywhere without needing to attach to find a stud or girt.
Better: install OSB then install drywall on top of that. You get the benefits of both (can hang stuff anywhere, fire resistance of drywall, finish capabilities of drywall with mud and tape, etc.) It's also a HARD surface you can't punch through like with drywall. Not easily anyway. When you hang your drywall you don't even need to find a stud for the drywall screws. The downside is of course the cost and time of installing both. I did both in my garage though, OSB then drywall and it's awesome.
Or you can skip the drywall and just skim coat the OSB with compound. Im doing that for radiator covers in one of my rentals now. If it holds up over the years, I might just do that instead of sheetrock for walls. It’s cheaper. Goes up faster, is more “tenant proof.” Gonna do one with hot mud, one with mud and oil based primer. I might plaster one since I want to learn how to do that too.
Another great lesson. Men of your caliber do not just pop up. You had to have had outstanding parents. It really shows. And you never waste our time. Always direct and to the point. Looking forward to the next time.
Y is this comment so underrated? Good people r few n far n between n indeed, he appears very secure thus perhaps was raised correctly. Bless his wife/children. 🙏🏽
@@incognitonegress You feel this way simply because you haven't seen his rap videos, nor have you owned any of his cds. This guy is such a thug. Under that t-shirt his body is covered with tattoos. You should see his videos. He puts Eminen to shame. Right now DJ Carpenter is at home smoking blunts with his homeboys. I can't believe you fell for his "Mr Honest Carpenter" line of videos. This is just a sideline to help him financially. In reality this guy is just a white man struggling to get his raps heard by the mainstreamers. Support his real passion, Rap Music!!!
Perfect timing on this video! I just bought a sheet for my workbench I'm building. Now I know I need to put a coat of finish on it but it's not exposed so I'm going for it. Thanks for the very interesting videos. As a female just getting into DIY you make accessible videos without being condescending. Thank you for that.
Hi! If you're just getting started in diy projects and are looking for more good sources of info, I'd recommend Rex Krueger. He's got an excellent humorous presentation style with great tips on woodworking in general with a focus on using traditional hand tools. Best of luck!
I’ve been framing since 1975 and i have been using OSB since it was invented and I have no complaints, about it or plywood. You just have to know what to use here and there.
When contemplating OSB, I am somehow reminded of the line from the Christmas Story movie: "My old man's spare tires were only actually tires in the academic sense. They were round and had once been made of rubber."
That explains a lot! A couple weeks ago I replaced much of the carpet and other flooring in our house with LVP. The last room was the master bath, but there I noticed the plywood subfloor was overlaid with 1/4 inch OSB. It was glued down as well, so I was stuck with a transition. When I pulled up the existing vinyl flooring I saw vinyl tile, and around the toilet it was not adhered at all. Under the vinyl tile was the OSB that had apparently been receiving water (my guess, from the pattern, was a neglected tank leak) for many months at some point before we bought the house 20 years ago. It was rather thoroughly rotted - fortunately I had recently bought an N100 respirator - but the remains were still glued to the subfloor. I used an entire 50 lb bag of leveling cement to get it and the affected surroundings filled. I understand it has its place, but in the vicinity of water it seems out of place.
The first horse stalls I built was done with 3/4 plywood. Learned that a horse could dent and even break through with a swift kick. Last ones I used OSB. In 10 years, the OSB has remained undamaged. I'm sold on its durability and structural integrity.
@@TheHonestCarpenter right. Not only is OSB more dense then plywood, I think the most important aspect is because of the oriented cross layering of the chips it's also far more Superior in resistance to warping-- don't you think? Honestly I think that's one of its main advantages.
I was taught to prime the wood after cutting to size with a white lead oil paint, then let it dry before installing the wooden pieces. Today, I will prim large pieces like flooring on both sides and the edges with a decent primer before installing them, now I use water based primer. I was trained as a carpenter by my father, but became an electrician. (The Carpenters were not taking any apprentices when I was ready.) So I only do the carpentry work on my home. I have never found anyone else who believed in priming the cut boards before installing them. I still do, although I only work on my home.
If you want timber to last you have to use a water based microporous paint as to not clog but allow the timber to breath so it doesn’t get dry rot, I would only recommend that on timer that is on the exterior or exposed to the elements. Inside your house though is sealed so there would be no need for the paint as it doesn’t need moister or UV protection. It’s definitely smarter and cleaner to paint timber before installing if you have the intention of painting it after installing anyway 👍
Water-based anything causes swelling, but stuff like Woodlife Classic is OK on something like a fence picket. Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealer (CPES) is what you really want to use, but it is pricey.
Hello, Ethan; Thank you for all you do. OSB is really far superior for replacing the "particle board/"dust board"" in mobile homes. Have a GREAT day, Neighbor!
I am working in a 1969 mobile home now replacing the particle board floor in the kitchen after a long slow leak did alot of damage. Especially to the floor. The OSB that I used to replace subfloor was great until it came time to flatten or level the surface of the kitchen and dining room. I called 3 manufacturers today and not one of them even MAKES a product to patch and level the surface in preparation for vinyl plank flooring. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to do this??? Live the videos honest carpenter.
My buddy worked for "Heartland" a big shed/storage building co. During that time they did a: OSB vs plywood test. They repeatedly parked a 1/2 ton pickup truck on a 10' x 16' mock sub-floor using 1/2" and 5/8" flooring, and treated 2 x 4's [4' on center so the flooring would bear most of the load]. In the end the OSB out performed the plywood with regards to sagging, and damage; *but* like you said, just don't get it wet. ;)
I’m really enjoying your channel. As a DIYer with an MBA, I have A LOT to learn. Between your videos and on the job training with my father in law (plus access to all his tools), I’m getting fairly proficient with small carpentry projects.
I've used OSB on a few floors & walls, & for the most part it holds up pretty good. Tip: If you absolutely have to use OSB externally use a can of Flex Seal on it & it'll hold up for Years!👷🏾♂️
I'm super curious about flex seal. Never used it for anything, just starting to experiment with plastidip lately but I've been getting the feeling that flex seal might be better for many purposes I have in mind. I'd welcome any thoughts on its uses/any tips you feel like sharing, if you or any other commenter wants to ramble a bit about your experience with it!
@@ItsAsparageese I once made a Jon Boat out of window screen and coated it with Flex Seal. I sailed all the way from California to China with no problem!😅
Hi from India...I have made my whole shop interior by this material, but seriously I didn't know it's name,after watching this video I came to know it's OSB...thank you brother.....
Thanks Ethan, for another informative video. As a homeowner, I’ve always stayed away from OSB because it looks cheap. To me, cheap usually = failure. Plywood has served my purposes.
They used to recommend painting all cut edges in the field. ‘Paper’ over installed exterior faces ASAP. Thanks for the straight scoop. Can’t get a screw to hold in the edge of plywood either.
Good information. In the early 2000s I worked in commercial construction doing Stucco and Plaster work. I have seen OSB get excessively wet before was were weather proofed. Many times the OSB had to be replaced. I do not know if it is still the case. OSB is supposed to have a space between panel joints to allow for expansion and contraction. I have seen the results when the proper spacing is not adhered to. Follow the installation instructions.
@@jobacuda4472 That gap is required behind Stucco and EIFS. If the crews ahead of us did not they would come back and cut the gap with a circular saw. I was the lead person on the scaffold crew. My job was to inspect the jobsite prior to scaffold construction. Inspect walls for proper gapping, correct number of screws, roof, window and door flashing. I would call our project manager and go see the GC My crew and I would not build scaffold until this was done. We had plenty of work my boss would send us somewhere else. .
Another very informative video. In the UK OSB is commonly used for the interiors of field shelters and stables. Easily replaced if it gets damaged. As you said it has its place but not suitable for many projects.
Super helpful, OSB is all around me, I on a crew finishing an enormous retirement living center that has become incredibly frequent site for me. I was wondering about all the uses. Seems vital in many large, commercial projects. Thanks for all the advice and alternatives, your videos are really stimulating.
OSB is made from trembling aspen up here in eastern Canada (which is the source of most of your eastern US wood) Aspen is a hardwood that is not suitable for dimensioned lumber so it is abundant and cheap. That is why it out competes plywood.
Thanks for your take; it basically confirms mine, and I don't generally like this material. As you said, Builders like it because it's cheaper. (I say) enduring, quality homes are not made with this material. As you kind of said: OSB works so long as moisture doesn't enter into the system. I say: when it does, such as inside a wall, failure really problematic, and it's typically late -discovered. And frankly, it's really, really hard to keep all moisture out of the building system whether at construction, or over the years. Even after a decade or two of service (if it gets that far), it is truly undesirable to have to deal with OSB failure in a building. I do a lot of renovation in my practice and OSB/moisture related failure is some of the nastiest. Similarly, for DIY projects, you would want consider whether enduring quality matters to your application.
I used it to frame in a 2 ft high concrete wall around patio. I was surprised when I peeled it off it left a interesting pattern in the concrete better looking than just smooth concrete I think
In the uk oriented strand board comes in different grades and level OSB 3 is passed by buildings control as structural timber for building with. It can be left out in the rain without treatment for many months. You often see building sites use it as shuttering around the external fencing of a site to keep the public away. OSB 2 is furniture grade for carcasses and areas that don’t get seen. It’s brilliant stuff and in my opinion superior to ply. You can screw the edge on wider boards using special course threaded screws, but for sheathing it’s the only option.
Thanks so much for always providing phenomenally clear and accessible info! I'm designing a tiny house trailer for now and a small cabin to build after that, planning to use largely salvaged materials (and some aspen deadfall) for both. Everything you've taught me about materials has really helped illuminate the nuances and given me a really strong foundation for making structural and design choices. I really appreciate it 🙏 (When I get further along in drafting stages on the cabin, I definitely plan to hit up your consultants for extra insights/cautions before and after I get things more locked in with a local contractor to help finish the plans!)
I’m really glad it’s helpful, Emerald! Unfortunately we’re not consulting anymore 😕 But I do think I’ll be covering a lot of topics in the near future that’ll be good for your build!
@@TheHonestCarpenter Aww haha I hadn't looked at the site again for a while! All good, just an opportunity to keep exploring and find even more awesome helpful people to learn from, love learning from as many resources as possible :D And I have no doubt your videos will just keep getting better and better and piling up in my reference playlists! Thanks for all your hard work!
I always learn something from your material studies, Ethan, thank you. Before really starting to get into woodworking, I had a lot of home repairs to deal with and discovered 18mm OSB as an inexpensive option for replacing broken floorboards. Appearance didn't matter as there was nothing special about the original wooden boards and it was all to be covered. The only drawback is where an obstruction, such as a pipe I'm not ready to move, sits high under the boards. For these I use solid wood as I can cut a groove to accommodate, finding that weakens OSB too much.
I had a very bad experience with OSB glued to the plywood subfloor under a toilet. A water leak destroyed the OSB and I had no choice but to fill the area with self-leveling cement.
We have stained, hard gloss sealed advantec like that for flooring on some parts of our house. It was sanded extensively. This was 15 years ago . There are Lange areas of floor in the house and I cannot have carpet. It can be mopped with the seal we used. We go over it with dry mop right away like hardwood. It took many laIt looks ok stained until we can get more expensive. It is cool,even and people think it may be cork. Never a problem with it.
As a flooring contractor for nearly 45 years, my complaint with OSB has always been edge swelling. After I do my moisture test, it sometimes take a couple of hours to sand down the seams before I can install hardwood or LVP. But it will hold a staple as well as plywood.
First off I appreciate all the videos I've watched from you you explain stuff very good also yeah I do have a comment about the OSB the only problem I have with it is that when you cut it it chip really bad I hate chipping that's just one thing I don't like don't ask me why I just hate wood chipping when I cut it and yes I keep my blade Sharp on my saw
Great video. Another issue I found over the last 30 years is one side is protected with some kind of wax, making it very dangerous while nailing to trusses and rafter during rainy days. My Father slid off and fell 15 feet. After that we nailed it rough side up.
I know you said we shouldn't build cabinets out of them, but i did just use some leftover OSB to build my mom some shelves for her garage XD They're pretty sturdy, and with a bit of paint, don't look too bad and serve their purpose (also it only cost me a few hours of my day)
Very well put together and concise video with all the essential information on the topic. As a carpenter/contractor myself I found that this video was exactly what I expected to see.
Thanks for all your very helpful videos and information, Ethan, and I really appreciate your no-nonsense approach to your videos - just really solid, understandable and helpful tips and advice. One question when it comes to sheathing the inside of exterior walls (e.g., finishing the inside of a garage): Is there a general rule to follow for the vertical spacing of the screws/nails along the studs (how far apart/close together they should be)? Thanks again for all the great info.
I’m a big believer of drywall screws, osb, and brushed motors. I definitely think they all have better options, such as deck screws, standard laminate plywood, and brushless motors, but, it’s hard to explain in a comment without making it too long, they all have their place, but they all work really well in a lot of situations they shouldn’t be involved in. Perfect example, my dad used drywall screws directly into the mortar on the house, no pre drilling, no anchors, to hang floodlights when I was like 3. Just replaced them now with new solar lights, no corrosion, the mortar never cracked or crumbled.
I use the avantec sub flooring with no need for another layer of half inch plywood. it is thick enough and stout enough to go directly on the joists with a good adhesive, and it will never squeak or have weak places in it. As long as you use the proper screws at 8 or 12 inch spacing, it will never need any maintenance.
OSB soaks up water though like a sponge, I know it does since a board of it above a garage door was bloated with water and weeping from a small roof leak. The layers of OSB on the outer wall of the garage near the base soaked water and rotted out. Keep OSB from water damage at all costs. It turns to mush basically.
The Problem is thats outside. Nobody in Europa uses it outside. Only inside. Cheap with tyvec outside or more expensive with mdf. For vented construction. We have osb3 and 4 4 is 100% waterresistant.
One of the biggest advantages of OSB is how little it warps compared to plywood. It also utilizes more “ trash trees” that would have no use in plywood.
Consider a video about installing wood floors on osb. I know it's not common but I'm planning on using reclaimed douglas fir original 3/4" subfloor. The house is in an old mining town where people live the old Look. I'm sure it's too brittle to nail through the tongue. So I'd like to learn alternative techniques for using osb.
I have used OSB to build a dog house. I did cover it with fence boards all around to make it more aesthetically appealing. The dog house is still holding up.
I've seen OSB used for shipping skids and creates, mostly in industrial applications. It seems fine for the walls of a create but horrible for the floor, in all fairness i've seen poorly costructed creates made of plywood fail. Whenever I had to make a skid or create I tended to use mostly 4x4, 6x6, and plywood. OSB tends to rip apart under heavy loads, the 3 inch 316 SS leg of a 5000 pound machine tends to go right through the stuff as the truck goes down the hwy.
Exactly, well said IF it doesn’t get wet, OSB is a money saver. But you better have a bullet proof, know what your doing water barrier system through out 100% of where it’s installed. That includes not just house wrap, but every window and door installation, roofing, wall penetrations, etc. Better not ever have a plumbing leak through OSB. Plywood is more forgiving of mistakes. AFAIK, everybody makes mistakes.
Thank you young man for the knowledge on OSB I’m going to use it to put a floor in my van if that’ll work any thoughts on that and then I will put some wood laminate on top probably the squares
I like the aesthetic of OSB; I've built a tall skinny chest of drawers out it using copper plumbing T fittings as drawer pulls. I'd like to build something using OSB and Galvanized steel with its similar flake texture and finish it in clear coloured lacquer. One drawback is the smell, which, unless painted, tends to evoke wood shavings in a pet shop!
Just built a workbench with OSB underneath my plywood sheet top...cheaper than doubling up on plywood and I get a nice thick bench top. I guess we'll see how it holds up.
i used OSB to hold up my Cali King waterbed. it worked perfect, and both my back and my wallet hurt a little less. im also planning on starting an OSB mini sail boat build soon. obviously ill be completely sealing the OSB after all the cuts are made, and before construction, then resealing the boat once it's assembled. i personally like the way osb looks
THanks. I always avoided it. May start using it for shelving now. I am new to woodworking so finding out things like this are a great help. I would love to see a video on MDF since I see a lot of people using it in their videos. Maybe there is already a video out there.
I am glad it exists (as long as it´s Formaldehyde-free) cause as a hobby woodworker, I appreciate it when every single waste of wood is used. But I personally don´t use it for my projects. Equivalent to not using inferior plywood for furniture.
I live in Arizona and sometimes have wondered how long MDF can remain architecturally sound during construction, especially during monsoon season. Almost every home is frame and stucco out here…
Until ZIP came along, I bet I was the stuff on 90% of builds in NC. I’ve seen it get shaggy on jobs that fell apart due to financing, but most jobs it gets wrapped and roofed too soon to matter.
I opted for 18mm OSB3 loft (attic) floor panels against the usual 18mm chipboard panels we use here in the UK, as (1) it's lighter and (2) it spans 600mm against 450mm for chipboard, just costs a bit more than chipboard.
I had to look that up as I thought all sheet materials were available up to 2440 x 1220 (8' x 4'). I found chipboard listed in this size at trade suppliers but not B&Q or Wickes. I'm surprised since they sell everything else full size, as well as various smaller dimensions.
@@LoremIpsum1970 Yes, you would certainly have to be rebuilding the roof to get a full sheet up there intact. I meant if using so much material anyway, you may as well buy whole sheets and cut them down yourself rather than buy smaller panels, which are much poorer value. The part that surprised me was the OP finding chipboard only up to 450mm width and OSB 600mm. The widest 18mm chipboard at B&Q is 600mm, while OSB is available in 2440 x 1220.
@@worstuserever yes, I'm not sure about the availability. For 600 span (almost all of UK truss spacings) chipboard would need to be 22mm thick. I know someone who did cut down larger boards to do this. There is a cost impact on the smaller board packs, though in both types the smaller boards are tongue and groove edged.
I played some rock n roll in a large 2 story shed in Georgia that had OSB on all the interior walls, unpainted, all the chips visible, and it seemed to absorb sound very well, with no echo (having a good "dry" sound) and you could play a long time without hurting your ears, and hear the other instruments clearly. It seemed like accoustic foam or dropped ceiling tiles and I wonder if it has a high NCR noise coefficient rating. All the glue and wood bits may act as sound absorbers.
Thank you for a very informative & concise video! If you see this, would I be correct in thinking that reinforcing the (dry) interior of my cripple walls would be better with OSB and #10 screws instead of plywood & nails? Thanks again.
Worm drive takes gear oil, it'll last longer. Also puts the blade on the left side of the saw, the sight line if you're right handed. Makes cutting rafter tails from the top much easier. I have both and my advice is if you're bench cutting then a sidewinder is the way to go, much lighter. I'll take the worm drive climbing around the frame.
I was cheap and got some for some garage organizing, def realized the not holding a screw from the edge, hard to write on, and doesn’t sand good, but it’s cheap for sure! Used it as a base
Dude at 1:50, shirt off, no goggles, no vest, no hat, casually stooped over a circular saw just inches from the roof threshold. Must be the 1980s 🤣🤣🤣 This video, like this channel, is great - efficient, to the point, factual and underpinned by real-life experience. Best compliment I can pay it, is that it reminds me of Skill Builder.
Check Out the ULTIMATE CARPENTRY CHECKLIST!! *Get your free interactive ebook here* :
www.thehonestcarpenter.com/the-ultimate-carpentry-checklist
This *150-item Visual Glossary* covers every important topic in carpentry. Check off the tools you have, the concepts you understand. And if you don't know a topic, just click on it for an explanation. Every carpenter and DIYer needs this free guide!
I used 7/16 OSB to finish the walls in my shop instead of drywall 20 years ago. I put it up with the more textured side out. Painted white it gives an interesting texture wall finish. And being in a shop, you can attach anything anywhere without needing to attach to find a stud or girt.
Better: install OSB then install drywall on top of that.
You get the benefits of both (can hang stuff anywhere, fire resistance of drywall, finish capabilities of drywall with mud and tape, etc.) It's also a HARD surface you can't punch through like with drywall. Not easily anyway. When you hang your drywall you don't even need to find a stud for the drywall screws.
The downside is of course the cost and time of installing both.
I did both in my garage though, OSB then drywall and it's awesome.
Good idea
Or you can skip the drywall and just skim coat the OSB with compound.
Im doing that for radiator covers in one of my rentals now. If it holds up over the years, I might just do that instead of sheetrock for walls. It’s cheaper. Goes up faster, is more “tenant proof.”
Gonna do one with hot mud, one with mud and oil based primer.
I might plaster one since I want to learn how to do that too.
@chriscolameco6850 was thinking of doing something like this in my garage. Any updates?
its nice yes but may not pass fire code and insurance issues
Another great lesson. Men of your caliber do not just pop up.
You had to have had outstanding
parents. It really shows. And you never waste our time. Always direct and to the point. Looking
forward to the next time.
Y is this comment so underrated? Good people r few n far n between n indeed, he appears very secure thus perhaps was raised correctly. Bless his wife/children. 🙏🏽
Totally agree!! Ethan is very well spoken, kind and is the definition of "Professional"! Thank You for what you do Ethan!!!
Ethan is awesome right on everytime always to the facts
I can attest to the fact that Ethan has great parents! ;-)
@@incognitonegress You feel this way simply because you haven't seen his rap videos, nor have you owned any of his cds. This guy is such a thug. Under that t-shirt his body is covered with tattoos. You should see his videos. He puts Eminen to shame. Right now DJ Carpenter is at home smoking blunts with his homeboys. I can't believe you fell for his "Mr Honest Carpenter" line of videos. This is just a sideline to help him financially. In reality this guy is just a white man struggling to get his raps heard by the mainstreamers. Support his real passion, Rap Music!!!
Perfect timing on this video! I just bought a sheet for my workbench I'm building. Now I know I need to put a coat of finish on it but it's not exposed so I'm going for it.
Thanks for the very interesting videos. As a female just getting into DIY you make accessible videos without being condescending. Thank you for that.
Hi! If you're just getting started in diy projects and are looking for more good sources of info, I'd recommend Rex Krueger. He's got an excellent humorous presentation style with great tips on woodworking in general with a focus on using traditional hand tools. Best of luck!
I’ve been framing since 1975 and i have been using OSB since it was invented and I have no complaints, about it or plywood. You just have to know what to use here and there.
When contemplating OSB, I am somehow reminded of the line from the Christmas Story movie: "My old man's spare tires were only actually tires in the academic sense. They were round and had once been made of rubber."
That’s hilarious. I’ve watched that movie every year and don’t remember hearing that line. Hilarious.
That explains a lot! A couple weeks ago I replaced much of the carpet and other flooring in our house with LVP. The last room was the master bath, but there I noticed the plywood subfloor was overlaid with 1/4 inch OSB. It was glued down as well, so I was stuck with a transition. When I pulled up the existing vinyl flooring I saw vinyl tile, and around the toilet it was not adhered at all. Under the vinyl tile was the OSB that had apparently been receiving water (my guess, from the pattern, was a neglected tank leak) for many months at some point before we bought the house 20 years ago. It was rather thoroughly rotted - fortunately I had recently bought an N100 respirator - but the remains were still glued to the subfloor. I used an entire 50 lb bag of leveling cement to get it and the affected surroundings filled.
I understand it has its place, but in the vicinity of water it seems out of place.
Ya, cement board would be better over the plywood in a wet zone.
The first horse stalls I built was done with 3/4 plywood. Learned that a horse could dent and even break through with a swift kick. Last ones I used OSB. In 10 years, the OSB has remained undamaged. I'm sold on its durability and structural integrity.
Supposedly it has far fewer voids than plywood, Joe. That’s why some people prefer it for subfloors-it’s just denser.
@@TheHonestCarpenter right. Not only is OSB more dense then plywood, I think the most important aspect is because of the oriented cross layering of the chips it's also far more Superior in resistance to warping-- don't you think? Honestly I think that's one of its main advantages.
I covered my shop walls in OSB for this reason! Heavy coat of white paint and it looks great!
@@matthewwasserman7709 horses in the shop is not a good idea
@@gulzeb HAHAHA!! They're great for glue ups!
I was taught to prime the wood after cutting to size with a white lead oil paint, then let it dry before installing the wooden pieces. Today, I will prim large pieces like flooring on both sides and the edges with a decent primer before installing them, now I use water based primer. I was trained as a carpenter by my father, but became an electrician. (The Carpenters were not taking any apprentices when I was ready.) So I only do the carpentry work on my home. I have never found anyone else who believed in priming the cut boards before installing them. I still do, although I only work on my home.
not cost efficient
Great job
Great presents of mind to do the right thing. You can wire my house anytime. Most only think....get ur dunn.
If you want timber to last you have to use a water based microporous paint as to not clog but allow the timber to breath so it doesn’t get dry rot, I would only recommend that on timer that is on the exterior or exposed to the elements. Inside your house though is sealed so there would be no need for the paint as it doesn’t need moister or UV protection. It’s definitely smarter and cleaner to paint timber before installing if you have the intention of painting it after installing anyway 👍
Water-based anything causes swelling, but stuff like Woodlife Classic is OK on something like a fence picket. Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealer (CPES) is what you really want to use, but it is pricey.
You cover the basics and essentials that many of us are just not aware of in a clear, comprehensive manner. Thanks.
Hello, Ethan;
Thank you for all you do.
OSB is really far superior for replacing the "particle board/"dust board"" in mobile homes.
Have a GREAT day, Neighbor!
Thank you for watching, Jon!
I am working in a 1969 mobile home now replacing the particle board floor in the kitchen after a long slow leak did alot of damage. Especially to the floor. The OSB that I used to replace subfloor was great until it came time to flatten or level the surface of the kitchen and dining room. I called 3 manufacturers today and not one of them even MAKES a product to patch and level the surface in preparation for vinyl plank flooring. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to do this???
Live the videos honest carpenter.
My buddy worked for "Heartland" a big shed/storage building co. During that time they did a: OSB vs plywood test. They repeatedly parked a 1/2 ton pickup truck on a 10' x 16' mock sub-floor using 1/2" and 5/8" flooring, and treated 2 x 4's [4' on center so the flooring would bear most of the load]. In the end the OSB out performed the plywood with regards to sagging, and damage; *but* like you said, just don't get it wet. ;)
I’m really enjoying your channel. As a DIYer with an MBA, I have A LOT to learn. Between your videos and on the job training with my father in law (plus access to all his tools), I’m getting fairly proficient with small carpentry projects.
I've used OSB on a few floors & walls, & for the most part it holds up pretty good. Tip: If you absolutely have to use OSB externally use a can of Flex Seal on it & it'll hold up for Years!👷🏾♂️
Beat me to it!! 👍
I’ve seen teams seal the seams on roof panels in particular, W
I'm super curious about flex seal. Never used it for anything, just starting to experiment with plastidip lately but I've been getting the feeling that flex seal might be better for many purposes I have in mind. I'd welcome any thoughts on its uses/any tips you feel like sharing, if you or any other commenter wants to ramble a bit about your experience with it!
@@ItsAsparageese plasti drip is a good product. I’ve used on footwear before, to waterproof my boots. I’ll reply again later. Supper time!😎
@@ItsAsparageese I once made a Jon Boat out of window screen and coated it with Flex Seal. I sailed all the way from California to China with no problem!😅
Hi from India...I have made my whole shop interior by this material, but seriously I didn't know it's name,after watching this video I came to know it's OSB...thank you brother.....
Thanks Ethan, for another informative video. As a homeowner, I’ve always stayed away from OSB because it looks cheap. To me, cheap usually = failure. Plywood has served my purposes.
Engineer/large home project DIYer. This is a great video on content - I haven't found an equal to you on YT. Keep up the great work!
Thank you, James!
Old carpenter here never even bought a pc of osb. Replaced it many times with plywood because it failed in many situations.
Iv just watched 1 vedio briefly.. Brush vs brushless.. Very impressed.. Delivery and explanation is fantastic.
the video was informative. I could not help notice how organized your shop is. You gave me inspiration. thanx
I showed my husband his shop. I think he got jealous!
They used to recommend painting all cut edges in the field. ‘Paper’ over installed exterior faces ASAP. Thanks for the straight scoop. Can’t get a screw to hold in the edge of plywood either.
Thanks. I have used OSB as wall material in a workshop and plan to use it again in a small storage shed.
Perfect place for it, Glen!
I’m thinking the same inside use for it. How is when hanging shelves to it?
@@robertramirez8492 I used 1/2” so I always made sure there were screws into studs. Small light duty shelve into just the OSB would probably be ok.
Good information.
In the early 2000s I worked in commercial construction doing Stucco and Plaster work.
I have seen OSB get excessively wet before was were weather proofed.
Many times the OSB had to be replaced.
I do not know if it is still the case.
OSB is supposed to have a space between panel joints to allow for expansion and contraction.
I have seen the results when the proper spacing is not adhered to.
Follow the installation instructions.
No one leaves 1/8" between any sheathing.
@@jobacuda4472 That gap is required behind Stucco and EIFS.
If the crews ahead of us did not they would come back and cut the gap with a circular saw.
I was the lead person on the scaffold crew.
My job was to inspect the jobsite prior to scaffold construction.
Inspect walls for proper gapping, correct number of screws, roof, window and door flashing.
I would call our project manager and go see the GC
My crew and I would not build scaffold until this was done.
We had plenty of work my boss would send us somewhere else.
.
@@shawnr771 Hope they don't hit any nails!
@@jobacuda4472 OSB over 18 gauge metal studs was screwed on .
@@shawnr771 Ahh, commercial. I missed that.
Another very informative video. In the UK OSB is commonly used for the interiors of field shelters and stables. Easily replaced if it gets damaged. As you said it has its place but not suitable for many projects.
That’s definitely a good use for the stuff, Jim!
Well said. This product is definitely great and cheap.
@@SinnisjInsulator It’s cheaper than plywood, but definitely not cheap anymore.
Super helpful, OSB is all around me, I on a crew finishing an enormous retirement living center that has become incredibly frequent site for me. I was wondering about all the uses. Seems vital in many large, commercial projects. Thanks for all the advice and alternatives, your videos are really stimulating.
I remember paying ~ $6 a sheet for 7/16 OSB. Sheetrock was $5 so i did everything in OSB. $22 per at HD yesterday
OSB is made from trembling aspen up here in eastern Canada (which is the source of most of your eastern US wood) Aspen is a hardwood that is not suitable for dimensioned lumber so it is abundant and cheap. That is why it out competes plywood.
Ah, hence "aspenite," whose manufacturer is now shut down.
I always enjoy your very informative videos ... great tips and knowledge ... and the presentation/communication is excellent.
Thank you, Ed!
Thanks for your take; it basically confirms mine, and I don't generally like this material. As you said, Builders like it because it's cheaper. (I say) enduring, quality homes are not made with this material. As you kind of said: OSB works so long as moisture doesn't enter into the system. I say: when it does, such as inside a wall, failure really problematic, and it's typically late -discovered. And frankly, it's really, really hard to keep all moisture out of the building system whether at construction, or over the years. Even after a decade or two of service (if it gets that far), it is truly undesirable to have to deal with OSB failure in a building. I do a lot of renovation in my practice and OSB/moisture related failure is some of the nastiest. Similarly, for DIY projects, you would want consider whether enduring quality matters to your application.
I used it to frame in a 2 ft high concrete wall around patio. I was surprised when I peeled it off it left a interesting pattern in the concrete better looking than just smooth concrete I think
Did it release without much difficulty?
A very thin coat of paint will make it modern art.
@@janami-dharmam Might end up looking like the original vinyl release of Split Enz' True Colours.
I like that it has a rough side to take out some of the slip hazards when using for roofs.
In the uk oriented strand board comes in different grades and level OSB 3 is passed by buildings control as structural
timber for building with. It can be left out in the rain without treatment for many months. You often see building sites use
it as shuttering around the external fencing of a site to keep the public away. OSB 2 is furniture grade for carcasses and
areas that don’t get seen. It’s brilliant stuff and in my opinion superior to ply. You can screw the edge on wider boards
using special course threaded screws, but for sheathing it’s the only option.
" As always " thank you honest carpenter, you nailed it ! ! Cheers from Canada.
Ok
Thanks so much for always providing phenomenally clear and accessible info! I'm designing a tiny house trailer for now and a small cabin to build after that, planning to use largely salvaged materials (and some aspen deadfall) for both. Everything you've taught me about materials has really helped illuminate the nuances and given me a really strong foundation for making structural and design choices. I really appreciate it 🙏 (When I get further along in drafting stages on the cabin, I definitely plan to hit up your consultants for extra insights/cautions before and after I get things more locked in with a local contractor to help finish the plans!)
I’m really glad it’s helpful, Emerald! Unfortunately we’re not consulting anymore 😕 But I do think I’ll be covering a lot of topics in the near future that’ll be good for your build!
@@TheHonestCarpenter Aww haha I hadn't looked at the site again for a while! All good, just an opportunity to keep exploring and find even more awesome helpful people to learn from, love learning from as many resources as possible :D And I have no doubt your videos will just keep getting better and better and piling up in my reference playlists! Thanks for all your hard work!
OSB is good stuff. I hang on to scraps for backer when I do drywall. It's also great if you need to pad some framing out. Very versatile material.
Once again, great info in a short, well produced video - thanks!
Thank you for this! I don’t know jack about plywood or OSB but I saved your video to help me out when I go shopping. Thank you!
I always learn something from your material studies, Ethan, thank you. Before really starting to get into woodworking, I had a lot of home repairs to deal with and discovered 18mm OSB as an inexpensive option for replacing broken floorboards. Appearance didn't matter as there was nothing special about the original wooden boards and it was all to be covered. The only drawback is where an obstruction, such as a pipe I'm not ready to move, sits high under the boards. For these I use solid wood as I can cut a groove to accommodate, finding that weakens OSB too much.
I had a very bad experience with OSB glued to the plywood subfloor under a toilet. A water leak destroyed the OSB and I had no choice but to fill the area with self-leveling cement.
We have stained, hard gloss sealed advantec like that for flooring on some parts of our house. It was sanded extensively. This was 15 years ago . There are Lange areas of floor in the house and I cannot have carpet. It can be mopped with the seal we used. We go over it with dry mop right away like hardwood. It took many laIt looks ok stained until we can get more expensive. It is cool,even and people think it may be cork. Never a problem with it.
I built my garage shop drawers with OSB for the actual drawers, plywood for the rest. They have held up great! I got the idea from John Heisz
Im using OSB3 for the wifes new kennel I'm building for her she's going to get such a surprise when i change the house locks.
😂
As a flooring contractor for nearly 45 years, my complaint with OSB has always been edge swelling. After I do my moisture test, it sometimes take a couple of hours to sand down the seams before I can install hardwood or LVP. But it will hold a staple as well as plywood.
I saw a coffee tabletop made with OSB, finished with epoxy. It was attractive looking.
First off I appreciate all the videos I've watched from you you explain stuff very good also yeah I do have a comment about the OSB the only problem I have with it is that when you cut it it chip really bad I hate chipping that's just one thing I don't like don't ask me why I just hate wood chipping when I cut it and yes I keep my blade Sharp on my saw
Robert Dunn used his CNC router to surface it and make a table for itself with wacky jointery. Turned out great!
Great video! Someone that makes a straight to the point content.
I've used OSB and 2x lumber to build shipping crates. The contents and the crates survived the journey.
Great video. Another issue I found over the last 30 years is one side is protected with some kind of wax, making it very dangerous while nailing to trusses and rafter during rainy days. My Father slid off and fell 15 feet. After that we nailed it rough side up.
I have worked at a osb mill for 26 years, the rough side is supposed to be facing up, for your safety.
At the Orange Despot:
AvenTech $75 (limited availability)
Plywood $40-50
Zip OSB $35
OSB $18
Guess I'll be going with PT plywood.
nothing wrong with osb
Your videos are always helpful Ethan. Keep up the good work in educating the DIYers 👍❤
Great Saturday watch as usual. Can you do a video on Avantech and one on te zip wall system.Thanks
Thanks Richie! I definitely want to cover both of those systems in detail, most likely early next year 🙂
I know you said we shouldn't build cabinets out of them, but i did just use some leftover OSB to build my mom some shelves for her garage XD
They're pretty sturdy, and with a bit of paint, don't look too bad and serve their purpose (also it only cost me a few hours of my day)
Christopher, how are those cabinets holding up? I'm thinking of building some cabinets in my shed using OSB
Didn't do much This Old House video where they use an air cannon to demonstrate the difference between OSB and plywood I don't use OSB anymore.
Very well put together and concise video with all the essential information on the topic. As a carpenter/contractor myself I found that this video was exactly what I expected to see.
Thanks Richard! I always appreciate feedback from other contractors 🙂
Thanks for all your very helpful videos and information, Ethan, and I really appreciate your no-nonsense approach to your videos - just really solid, understandable and helpful tips and advice. One question when it comes to sheathing the inside of exterior walls (e.g., finishing the inside of a garage): Is there a general rule to follow for the vertical spacing of the screws/nails along the studs (how far apart/close together they should be)? Thanks again for all the great info.
I used a piece to make a cross cut sled, working good so far.
I’m a big believer of drywall screws, osb, and brushed motors. I definitely think they all have better options, such as deck screws, standard laminate plywood, and brushless motors, but, it’s hard to explain in a comment without making it too long, they all have their place, but they all work really well in a lot of situations they shouldn’t be involved in. Perfect example, my dad used drywall screws directly into the mortar on the house, no pre drilling, no anchors, to hang floodlights when I was like 3. Just replaced them now with new solar lights, no corrosion, the mortar never cracked or crumbled.
very good video. thank you for your time and effort on this
Just bought some sanded osb-3 as an interior flooring for a workshop in the house. If sealed it is pretty durable and can even look great.
Super clear, concise and helpful as are all your videos, thank you very much 😊
I use the avantec sub flooring with no need for another layer of half inch plywood. it is thick enough and stout enough to go directly on the joists with a good adhesive, and it will never squeak or have weak places in it. As long as you use the proper screws at 8 or 12 inch spacing, it will never need any maintenance.
great for building job-site dumpsters on top of old pallets
This was interesting and there are some things I learned about OSB. Thanks for sharing this.
Thank you for all your shared information. Your videos are always great and to the point.
OSB soaks up water though like a sponge, I know it does since a board of it above a garage door was bloated with water and weeping from a small roof leak. The layers of OSB on the outer wall of the garage near the base soaked water and rotted out. Keep OSB from water damage at all costs. It turns to mush basically.
The Problem is thats outside. Nobody in Europa uses it outside. Only inside. Cheap with tyvec outside or more expensive with mdf. For vented construction. We have osb3 and 4 4 is 100% waterresistant.
One of the biggest advantages of OSB is how little it warps compared to plywood. It also utilizes more “ trash trees” that would have no use in plywood.
So its like making chicken soup out of chicken **it.
Consider a video about installing wood floors on osb. I know it's not common but I'm planning on using reclaimed douglas fir original 3/4" subfloor. The house is in an old mining town where people live the old
Look. I'm sure it's too brittle to nail through the tongue. So I'd like to learn alternative techniques for using osb.
I live in the SW: low humidity, few rainstorms and flooding, and very seldom torrential wind; OSB is king out here..
OSB performs great in winds.
In a college building trade class, the professor called OSB turkey board.
I have used OSB to build a dog house. I did cover it with fence boards all around to make it more aesthetically appealing. The dog house is still holding up.
Thanks for explaining what zip system consists of
I've seen OSB used for shipping skids and creates, mostly in industrial applications. It seems fine for the walls of a create but horrible for the floor, in all fairness i've seen poorly costructed creates made of plywood fail. Whenever I had to make a skid or create I tended to use mostly 4x4, 6x6, and plywood. OSB tends to rip apart under heavy loads, the 3 inch 316 SS leg of a 5000 pound machine tends to go right through the stuff as the truck goes down the hwy.
Thanks! Confirmed what I thought that I knew 😎
Osb doesnt return to shape on the edge once it dries back out. Plywood has a better chance of returning.
Good vid. Thanks
I agree
If it doesn't delaminate.
Please consider using a lapel mic - this will help minimise the reverberation present in this video. Thanks in advance! (Great content regardless!)
Exactly, well said IF it doesn’t get wet, OSB is a money saver. But you better have a bullet proof, know what your doing water barrier system through out 100% of where it’s installed. That includes not just house wrap, but every window and door installation, roofing, wall penetrations, etc. Better not ever have a plumbing leak through OSB.
Plywood is more forgiving of mistakes. AFAIK, everybody makes mistakes.
True, Falstaff. Flashing systems are all the more important on OSB sheathed houses.
I've seen plenty of rotted plywood in my time. The solution is to build properly.
Another educational and interesting video. Thank you Ethan
Thanks, Michael!
Always enjoy your informative videos. Keep them coming.
Such a simple and awesome explanation of OSB . I had always wondered why this was used
Thank you young man for the knowledge on OSB I’m going to use it to put a floor in my van if that’ll work any thoughts on that and then I will put some wood laminate on top probably the squares
Very helpful. Thanks for helping us use our money most efficiently.
What do the colors mean on the edges of OSB ?
I like the aesthetic of OSB; I've built a tall skinny chest of drawers out it using copper plumbing T fittings as drawer pulls. I'd like to build something using OSB and Galvanized steel with its similar flake texture and finish it in clear coloured lacquer. One drawback is the smell, which, unless painted, tends to evoke wood shavings in a pet shop!
Just built a workbench with OSB underneath my plywood sheet top...cheaper than doubling up on plywood and I get a nice thick bench top. I guess we'll see how it holds up.
i used OSB to hold up my Cali King waterbed.
it worked perfect, and both my back and my wallet hurt a little less.
im also planning on starting an OSB mini sail boat build soon. obviously ill be completely sealing the OSB after all the cuts are made, and before construction, then resealing the boat once it's assembled.
i personally like the way osb looks
THanks. I always avoided it. May start using it for shelving now. I am new to woodworking so finding out things like this are a great help. I would love to see a video on MDF since I see a lot of people using it in their videos. Maybe there is already a video out there.
Ethan has an MDF video, Joe.
I am glad it exists (as long as it´s Formaldehyde-free) cause as a hobby woodworker, I appreciate it when every single waste of wood is used. But I personally don´t use it for my projects. Equivalent to not using inferior plywood for furniture.
Yo have you thought about collabing with Vancouver Carpenter? You guys are legit the 2 most humble carpenters in YT
Hey Luciano, I love the V.C. channel! I’d be happy to collaborate with that team, if I ever wind up that far north 😄
If I opened up a channel “a** carpenzer” would you follow?
Spencer Lewis: “Am I a joke to you?”
@@TheHonestCarpenter fair enough, hopefully some sort of convention for woodworkers and carpeneters can occur
I live in Arizona and sometimes have wondered how long MDF can remain architecturally sound during construction, especially during monsoon season. Almost every home is frame and stucco out here…
Until ZIP came along, I bet I was the stuff on 90% of builds in NC. I’ve seen it get shaggy on jobs that fell apart due to financing, but most jobs it gets wrapped and roofed too soon to matter.
Todd, this is not MDF. MDF would last about a day in monsoon season!
@@jobacuda4472 You’re probably right but it sure looks like it…
@@jobacuda4472 My bad, OSB…✌🏻
Very helpful. Learned about alternative products, thanks.
I opted for 18mm OSB3 loft (attic) floor panels against the usual 18mm chipboard panels we use here in the UK, as (1) it's lighter and (2) it spans 600mm against 450mm for chipboard, just costs a bit more than chipboard.
Good call, Lorem! I’ll have to look up UK chipboard. We have a wall sheathing version over here.
I had to look that up as I thought all sheet materials were available up to 2440 x 1220 (8' x 4'). I found chipboard listed in this size at trade suppliers but not B&Q or Wickes. I'm surprised since they sell everything else full size, as well as various smaller dimensions.
@@worstuserever Full sheets (I think) are used with flooring loft conversions, so builders only, as access through an open roof is needed.
@@LoremIpsum1970 Yes, you would certainly have to be rebuilding the roof to get a full sheet up there intact. I meant if using so much material anyway, you may as well buy whole sheets and cut them down yourself rather than buy smaller panels, which are much poorer value. The part that surprised me was the OP finding chipboard only up to 450mm width and OSB 600mm. The widest 18mm chipboard at B&Q is 600mm, while OSB is available in 2440 x 1220.
@@worstuserever yes, I'm not sure about the availability. For 600 span (almost all of UK truss spacings) chipboard would need to be 22mm thick. I know someone who did cut down larger boards to do this. There is a cost impact on the smaller board packs, though in both types the smaller boards are tongue and groove edged.
I played some rock n roll in a large 2 story shed in Georgia that had OSB on all the interior walls, unpainted, all the chips visible, and it seemed to absorb sound very well, with no echo (having a good "dry" sound) and you could play a long time without hurting your ears, and hear the other instruments clearly. It seemed like accoustic foam or dropped ceiling tiles and I wonder if it has a high NCR noise coefficient rating. All the glue and wood bits may act as sound absorbers.
That’s interesting, Bernard!
Thank you for a very informative & concise video! If you see this, would I be correct in thinking that reinforcing the (dry) interior of my cripple walls would be better with OSB and #10 screws instead of plywood & nails? Thanks again.
Your knowledge is impressive.
Thank you from Italy
Also I have a video request that would be what's the difference between a sidewinder and a worm drive and why do you like one over the other better
Worm drive takes gear oil, it'll last longer. Also puts the blade on the left side of the saw, the sight line if you're right handed. Makes cutting rafter tails from the top much easier. I have both and my advice is if you're bench cutting then a sidewinder is the way to go, much lighter. I'll take the worm drive climbing around the frame.
I would use OSB in south Texas, Central Florida, California and when the job specify it other than that birth plywood is the best against moisture.
In the UK now a sheet of 8’ x 4’ 3/4” plywood is about £60 UK pounds, same dimension OSB is around half that so that’s a big deciding factor.
I was cheap and got some for some garage organizing, def realized the not holding a screw from the edge, hard to write on, and doesn’t sand good, but it’s cheap for sure! Used it as a base
A friend is a retired firefighter. He thinks the osb I-beams shouldn't be allowed. How does this stuff, with all the glue, compare to plywood, ect.?
Dude at 1:50, shirt off, no goggles, no vest, no hat, casually stooped over a circular saw just inches from the roof threshold. Must be the 1980s 🤣🤣🤣
This video, like this channel, is great - efficient, to the point, factual and underpinned by real-life experience. Best compliment I can pay it, is that it reminds me of Skill Builder.
Yes the 1980s when men were free and not being controlled by osha and a tyrannical government