Installation

Norbord’s Trubord structural panels are to be installed according to the APA’s (The Engineered Wood Association) Construction Guide E30V (see the resources section for a downloadable copy) and the appropriate building code. Below are a few key installation points.

  1. All panels should be spaced 1/8″ apart along all edges.
  2. All panels should be continuous over two or more spans.
  3. Be sure the studs and supports are square and aligned properly.
  4. Always wear the appropriate safety equipment.
  5. Provide 3/4″ expansion joints for every continuous section of panels exceeding 80 feet in length.
  6. Fastener spacing**.
  7. Prior to application, acclimatization of panels to surroundings for at least 24 hours is recommended.
  8. When applicable, span ratings, durability and mill identification is included in the grade stamp applied to every panel.
  9. Installing panels to overlap the joist area and the top plates significantly increases wall Capacity, Stiffness and Displacement*. To decrease air infiltration up to 60%, eliminate blocking material and labor, we recommend our TallWall 4×9 structural sheathing for 8′ walls and TallWall 4×10 structural sheathing for 9′ walls.  If you are building in high wind areas, please go to our Windstorm section and see additional savings that may be available. 
  10. If your choice for wall insulation is blown wet cellulose, please ensure the contractor/installer is highly qualified and the correct amount of drying (as specified by the manufacturer) has taken place.  Cellulose that has not dried properly is known to cause structural panels to expand and buckle and can lead to development of mold under the right conditions.

**Consult your local building codes for local requirements and specifications and the APA Construction Guide E30V

Resources

Visit the resources page for more information on product documents, forest certification, APA publications, seminars & trade shows.