Installation
“Norbord structural panels are to be installed according to the APA’s (The Engineered Wood Association) Construction Guide E30, the appropriate building code and/or the design professional’s specifications. Below are some key installation points and tips.
 
  1. Panels must be spaced 1/8” apart on all edges (Using a 10d nail as a space guide is a quick and easy way to ensure spacing)

  2. Installing TallWall panels to overlap the joist area and the top plates significantly increases wall Capacity, Stiffness, and Displacement*. Use 4x9’s with 8’ walls and 4x10’s for 9’ walls

  3. Ensure studs are aligned, uniform and square

  4. All panels should be continuous over two or more spans.

  5. TallWall panels are to be installed with the long direct parallel to the studs

  6. Provide ¾” expansion joints for every continuous section of panels exceeding 80 feet in length

  7. Install with the grade stamp facing into the home

  8. Fastener Spacing – consult your local building codes for local requirements, the APA Construction Guide E30 and/or your design professional’s specifications.
NB. One of the most common mistakes made during the installation of structural panels is not leaving a gap along all edges of the panels by butting the panels together. Not leaving space to allow for expansion can lead to potential problems. Butting panels tightly together can cause callback issues that add cost and impact the bottom line. TallWall panels are sized to allow for this spacing and leaving 1/8” between panels is a requirement. Using a 10d nail as a space guide is a quick and easy way to ensure spacing.
 
Click here for the Norbord OSB Information Sheet (PDF - 114KB)
 
Click here to access the APA website
 
Click here to access the new Norbord TallWall OSB product website