The APA Help Desk and some APA regional field representatives have noted an increased number of inquiries about availability of Structural I panel sheathing from areas (e.g. north eastern U.S.) that would not typically be considered active markets for Structural I sheathing. As a specialized structural panel, Structural I sheathing has not commonly been readily available in all market regions.
Unfortunately 2009 IBC (in at least the first and second printings) TABLE 2306.3 WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL SHEAR WALLS unintentionally omits several panel thicknesses (3/8, 7/16, 15/32 and 19/32-inch) from the Sheathing, plywood siding except Group 5 Species panel grade section. This unintentional omission is acknowledged by ICC staff and an errata is in the works.
With summer around the corner we’re beginning to receive inquiries about recommendations for refinishing APA siding products.
Question: What is the service life of APA Wood Structural Panels?
Question: Is it appropriate to use Marine-grade plywood as an exterior siding product?
Question: Where can I find allowable lateral loads for APA-rated portal wall construction?
Question: When can I use staples instead of nails? Does APA have a recommendation either way, and if so what size staple is required?
Question: What adjustment factor should be applied to the test values published in APA Technical Topic TT-070: Nailhead Pull-Through Strength of Wood Structural Panels?
Question: An interesting situation has come up where some engineers are being told that the International Building Code (IBC) no longer allows horizontal diaphragms where sheathing panels are applied with the long axis parallel to framing as is the case with panelized roof assemblies.
The APA Publications Index, Form B300 NN, has been updated. The revised 2008 index provides a complete listing of APA design and construction guides, product guides, builder tips, case histories, industrial publications and other materials available from the Association.
Question: Plans call for five- ply plywood roof sheathing but the lumber yard sent out four-ply. They say they won’t have five-ply in stock until next month. What is the difference between the panels?
