DIY Materials Showdown: Plywood vs. Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

But both have their advantages and disadvantagesso which should you use for your project?

DIYers will typically use plywood as it has a natural wood look.

Plywood is available in various thicknesses with 12" being the most popular for general construction.

For all those advantages, though, it is more expensive than OSB.

The strands are then mixed with wax and adhesives and hot pressed to form wood sheets.

Waterproof and exterior grade sheathing isn’t always available off-the-shelf.

Before tackling any construction project, check with your local lumber yard and explain the app to them.

So Which Should You Use?

Particle board can also be used as floor underlayment and as a substrate for countertops.

Photos fromBob Vila,Oxley Woods, andArchiExpo.