What Plywood Do You Use For Roofing?

Selecting the right plywood for roofing is crucial for ensuring a sturdy, long-lasting roof that can withstand various weather conditions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best plywood for your roofing project:

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Types of Plywood for Roofing

These plywood grades are recommended for roofing.

1. CDX Plywood

Best for: Most residential roofing applications

Features:

• “C” grade face, “D” grade back, exposure-rated glue (“X”)
• Economical choice for roof sheathing
• Suitable for use under asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other roofing materials

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2. Exterior Plywood

Best for: Roofs in high-moisture or severe weather areas

Features:

• Made with water-resistant glue for better moisture resistance
• More durable than standard CDX in harsh conditions
• Available in various grades (A-C, B-C, C-C)

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3. Pine Plywood

Best for: Cost-effective roofing solutions

Features:

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Good strength-to-weight ratio
• Available in various grades
• Excellent nail-holding ability
• Common choice for residential construction

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4. ACX Plywood

Best for: Exposed roof applications where appearance matters

Features:

• “A” grade face for better appearance
• Water-resistant adhesive
• Suitable for open beam ceilings where sheathing is visible

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5. OSB (Oriented Strand Board)

Best for: Cost-effective roofing in areas with moderate weather conditions

Features:

• Made from wood strands arranged in layers and bonded with resin
• Generally less expensive than plywood
• Suitable for use under most roofing materials

6. Marine Plywood

Best for: High-end roofing or areas with extreme weather conditions

Features:

• Highest grade of water-resistant plywood
• Minimal voids and high-quality face veneers
• Excellent durability in harsh environments

Thickness Considerations for Roofing

The appropriate thickness depends on the rafter spacing and local building codes:

• 3/8 inch (9 mm): Minimum thickness, suitable for rafter spacing up to 16 inches (40 cm)
• 1/2 inch (12 mm): Common thickness, suitable for rafter spacing up to 24 inches (60 cm)
• 5/8 inch (15 mm): Provides extra strength, recommended for heavier roofing materials or areas with high snow loads
• 3/4 inch (18 mm): Used for maximum strength and stability, often in commercial applications

Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Plywood

1. Rafter Spacing: Wider rafter spacing requires thicker plywood for adequate support.
2. Local Climate: Choose moisture-resistant options for areas with high humidity or frequent rain.
3. Roofing Material: Some roofing materials may require specific plywood grades or thicknesses.
4. Building Codes: Always check local building codes for minimum thickness and grade requirements.
5. Roof Pitch: Steeper roofs may require thicker plywood to support the weight of workers during installation.
6. Wind Resistance: In high-wind areas, thicker plywood and closer fastener spacing may be necessary.

Installation Tips for Roofing Plywood

1. Allow 1/8 inch (3 mm) gap between plywood sheets for expansion.
2. Stagger the plywood joints to increase the roof’s overall strength.
3. Use ring-shank nails or screws designed for roofing applications.
4. Follow proper fastener schedules as per local building codes.
5. Ensure proper ventilation in the attic space to prevent moisture buildup.
6. Apply a water-resistant barrier (e.g., roofing felt or synthetic underlayment) over the plywood before installing roofing materials.

Special Considerations

• Radiant Barriers: Some plywood comes with a radiant barrier attached, which can help reduce heat gain in the attic.
• Fire-Rated Plywood: In some areas, fire-rated plywood may be required for roofing applications.
• Green Building: For environmentally conscious projects, look for plywood certified by organizations like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
• Existing Roofs: When re-roofing, inspect the existing plywood for any signs of damage or rot. Replace any compromised sections before applying new roofing materials.

Contact us: we are happy to help you select the best plywood for your specific roofing needs and to provide additional guidance on your project.