OSB questions?
Question:I'm building a new 16'x20' workshop. The framing is almost complete and I'm going to install 4 x 8 x 7/16 Oriented Strand Board over the studs. Do I install it vertically(8ft up and down) or horizontally like sheetrock(8ft left to right) with the joints staggered? Also do I need to allow any spacing between the sheets for heat expansion or do I just butt the seams tightly? And what type of vapor barrier should install over the OSB if I am putting vinyl siding over it. Thank you.
Answers:
Orient strand board is omni directional, but I would install it horizontally for racking issues. An 1/8" gap works well for spacing. If you want to get anal, glue the osb to the studs and then nail. (option). House wrap, well tyvek works but check the pricing for simple tar paper. Tar paper will work fine, as it did for the last 100 of years. Tyvek "breaths" more than tar paper but either one will work.
With all due respect and after installing thousands of sq. ft. of both...Horizontal is a preference, not a law. You dont state a height of the structure that will accomodate whatever siding you use, or the distance between studs. If the structure is higher than 8 ft. you'll have cuts to make no matter.
Centered on studs however is strictly neccesary.
Expansion better not be a major issue if you're building anything, but certainly Tyvek would work as a barrier no matter what you use over.
on the walls i would do vert. without any spacing. no heat build up to worry about like in a roof. wouldnt bother wraping with anything if you going to vinyl side it. you dont gain anything by wraping it.. maybe stop a lil wind. the vinyl siding acts as the wrap. if your going to put any brick on it you will need barrier in those areas.
The first two users answered correctly.
To space the OSB there's a thing called "H clips" that space them apart evenly. Very cheap and inexpensive too.
I'm not sure what the codes are for vapor barriers other than Minnesota, but I'd suggest Tyvek on the outside walls and if you insulate, caulk and poly the inside walls from floor to ceiling and around every opening of doors and windows after installing insulation.
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