What Plywood to Use for Shed Roof?

Selecting the right plywood for your shed roof is essential for weather protection and structural integrity. Here’s our guide to choosing the best plywood for shed roof sheathing.

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Best Plywood Options for Shed Roofs

CDX Plywood

• Industry standard for roof sheathing
• 1/2″ (12mm) or 5/8″ (16mm) thickness
• Exposure 1 rated
• Good moisture resistance
• Most economical choice
• Most commonly used option

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Exterior Grade Plywood

• Premium choice for longer lifespan
• 1/2″ (12mm) or 5/8″ (16mm) thickness
• Superior water resistance
• Enhanced durability
• Better face quality
• Ideal for exposed applications

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OSB (Oriented Strand Board)

• Cost-effective alternative
• 7/16″ (11mm) or 1/2″ (12mm) thickness
• Good structural strength
• Meets code requirements
• Budget-friendly option
• Widely accepted for roofing

Thickness Requirements

By Rafter Spacing:

• 16″ on center: 1/2″ (12mm) minimum
• 24″ on center: 5/8″ (16mm) minimum
• High snow areas: 5/8″ (16mm) recommended

Climate Considerations:

• Standard regions: 1/2″ (12mm)
• Heavy snow regions: 5/8″ (16mm)
• High wind areas: 5/8″ (16mm)

Installation Guidelines

1. Preparation
   
   • Verify rafter spacing
   • Check for straight rafters
   • Ensure proper ventilation
   • Plan panel layout
2. Installation Steps
   
   • Start at bottom edge
   • Stagger end joints
   • Leave 1/8″ gap between sheets
   • Use H-clips between rafters
   • Install with long dimension perpendicular to rafters
3. Fastening Requirements
   
   • 8d common nails or
   • 2-3/8″ roof nails
   • 6″ spacing on edges
   • 12″ spacing in field
   • Nail 3/8″ from panel edges

Weather Protection

Required Materials:

• Roofing felt (15# or 30#)
• Drip edge
• Valley flashing
• Proper roof covering
• Ridge vent system

Installation Order:

1. Plywood sheathing
2. Drip edge (bottom)
3. Roofing felt
4. Drip edge (sides)
5. Roofing material

Our Recommendations

Economy Package:

• CDX Plywood 1/2″ (12mm)
• 15# roofing felt
• Standard fastening schedule
• Basic ventilation

Standard Package:

• Exterior Grade 1/2″ (12mm)
• 30# roofing felt
• Enhanced fastening schedule
• Improved ventilation system

Premium Package:

• Exterior Grade 5/8″ (16mm)
• Synthetic underlayment
• Maximum fastener schedule
• Premium ventilation system

Additional Considerations

1. Ventilation Requirements:
   
   • Ridge vent
   • Soffit vents
   • Proper air flow
   • Moisture control
2. Regional Factors:
   
   • Snow loads
   • Wind exposure
   • Rainfall intensity
   • Local building codes
3. Maintenance Tips:
   
   • Annual inspection
   • Check for leaks
   • Monitor ventilation
   • Clear debris regularly

Installation Supplies Needed

Fasteners:

• 8d galvanized nails
• Quantity: 1 lb per 100 sq ft
• Ring-shank preferred
• Proper length for thickness

Additional Materials:

• H-clips (for 24″ spans)
• Roofing felt
• Metal drip edge
• Construction adhesive (optional)

Tips for Success

1. Storage:
   
   • Keep materials dry
   • Store flat
   • Cover until needed
   • Allow air circulation
2. Installation:
   
   • Work in dry weather
   • Cover same day
   • Check forecast
   • Have tarps ready

What Plywood to Use for Shed Floor?

What Plywood to Use for Shed Walls?

Visit our store to view our selection of roof-grade plywood and contact us to discuss your specific project requirements with our experienced staff.