What Plywood to Use for Exterior Walls?

Selecting the right plywood for exterior walls is crucial for structural integrity and weather resistance. Here’s our comprehensive guide to choosing the best plywood for your exterior wall sheathing needs.

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Recommended Plywood Types

CDX Plywood

• Industry standard for exterior wall sheathing
• C-D Exposure 1 bond classification
• Available in 7/16″ (11mm) and 1/2″ (12mm)
• Excellent structural properties
• Cost-effective solution
• Meets building code requirements

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Exterior Grade Plywood

• Superior water resistance
• Type I waterproof glue
• Available in 1/2″ (12mm) thickness
• Higher grade faces than CDX
• Greater durability
• Ideal for harsh climates

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ACX Plywood

• One side A-grade, one side C-grade
• Exterior-grade adhesive
• 1/2″ (12mm) standard thickness
• Better appearance than CDX
• Good for exposed applications
• Premium choice for visible areas

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Standard Thickness Requirements

Recommended Thickness by Stud Spacing:

• 16″ on center: 7/16″ (11mm) minimum
• 24″ on center: 1/2″ (12mm) minimum
• High wind areas: 1/2″ (12mm) recommended
• Load-bearing walls: 1/2″ (12mm) preferred

Building Code Compliance

Standard Requirements:

• Must meet local building codes
• Minimum 7/16″ (11mm) thickness
• Proper exposure rating
• Appropriate span ratings
• Correct fastener schedule
• Required wind ratings

Installation Guidelines

1. Proper Storage
   • Keep materials dry
   • Store flat off ground
   • Cover with waterproof material
   • Allow air circulation
2. Installation Best Practices
   • Install with long dimension perpendicular to studs
   • Leave 1/8″ gap between panels
   • Use appropriate fasteners
   • Follow nailing schedule
   • Install weather barrier over sheathing
3. Fastening Requirements
   • 8d common nails or equivalent
   • 6″ spacing on panel edges
   • 12″ spacing on intermediate supports
   • Minimum 3/8″ from panel edges
   • Counter-sink nails slightly

Weather Protection

Required Barriers:

• Install house wrap
• Flash all openings
• Seal all penetrations
• Proper overlap at seams
• Tape all joints

Our Recommendations

Standard Construction:

• CDX Plywood 7/16″ (11mm) or 1/2″ (12mm)
• 16″ stud spacing
• Standard exposure rating
• Standard fastening schedule

High-Performance Walls:

• Exterior Grade Plywood 1/2″ (12mm)
• Enhanced fastening schedule
• Premium weather barrier
• Additional water protection

Coastal/High Wind Areas:

• 1/2″ (12mm) minimum thickness
• Reduced fastener spacing
• Enhanced tie-down systems
• Premium weather barriers

Additional Considerations

• Check local building codes
• Consider climate conditions
• Verify load requirements
• Plan for proper ventilation
• Account for expansion/contraction

Where to Buy Marine Plywood

Installation Tips

1. Pre-Installation:
   • Verify stud spacing
   • Check for straight walls
   • Ensure proper support
   • Plan panel layout
2. During Installation:
   • Use chalk lines
   • Check corners for square
   • Maintain proper gaps
   • Verify fastener placement
3. Post-Installation:
   • Inspect all fasteners
   • Check for damaged areas
   • Verify proper gaps
   • Install weather barrier promptly

Contact us to discuss your specific project requirements and see our complete selection of exterior wall sheathing products.