Continuous wood structural panel sheathing is one of the most versatile and impactful choices a builder or designer can make. Plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) deliver unmatched strength, stability and design flexibility, making them the preferred sheathing materials for applications ranging from shear walls and wall bracing to air barriers and high performance assemblies.
Unlike other sheathing options, engineered wood panels are rigorously tested, code-recognized and backed by decades of APA research – giving builders and designers the confidence to meet today’s demanding structural and energy requirements. Explore APA’s resources to discover how fully sheathed walls can simplify your project, reduce costs and improve performance from the ground up.
A solid nail base built into your sheathing
Continuously sheathed plywood or OSB walls provide an excellent, IRC-compliant nail base for siding, trim and brick ties. Learn how nail-base sheathing can simplify your build while improving wind resistance and long-term performance.
Simple air sealing with OSB and plywood
Proper air sealing is one of the most cost-effective steps you can take toward building an energy efficient home. Learn how OSB and plywood sheathing can serve as code-recognized air barriers and explore a checklist for effectively sealing a home.
Build better with raised-heel trusses
Raised-heel trusses are a simple framing upgrade that creates space for full-depth attic insulation and simplifies ventilation, delivering better energy performance without adding complexity. Learn how raised-heel trusses, combined with continuous plywood or OSB sheathing, can reduce construction costs, improve HERS scores and strengthen wall-to-truss connections.
Wall bracing: build it right, build it strong
Wall bracing is a critical structural element that helps homes resist the lateral forces generated by high winds and seismic activity. Learn the fundamentals of wall bracing design, explore code-compliant methods and access free APA tools to streamline your next project.
The smarter way to build for wind and seismic load
Wood structural panel diaphragms and shear walls offer a proven, cost-effective system for resisting the lateral forces generated by wind and earthquakes. Discover design guidance and technical resources for this efficient and widely used building system.
Design around openings with FTAO
When walls include windows or doors, FTAO offers a flexible and efficient approach to shear wall design using continuous wood structural panel sheathing. Learn more about the benefits of FTAO and access free APA tools and resources to get started.
The proven choice for wind and seismic resilience
From hurricane-prone coastlines to high-seismic zones, wood structural panels have a long track record of protecting homes and buildings against the most severe forces of nature. Learn how plywood and OSB provide the structural strength and load path continuity that keeps buildings standing.
Engineered for performance
High performance wall systems push building efficiency beyond minimum code requirements, achieving superior insulation, reduced thermal bridging and lasting durability. Discover how APA research and technical guidance are helping builders and designers implement these advanced assemblies with confidence.
Optimizing wall construction for better performance
Advanced framing is a proven system of wall framing techniques that optimizes material usage, reduces costs and improves energy efficiency without compromising structural integrity. Learn how this system can help builders reduce material and labor costs while meeting today’s energy and structural code requirements.
Excerpt - E30X-WC
This publication is an excerpt from the APA Engineered Wood Construction Guide, providing application recommendations for APA wood structural panel wall sheathing.
Technical Guides - L350
This publication provides design and construction recommendations for engineered diaphragm systems in floor, shear wall and roof systems
Technical Guides - J440
This publication provides five basic steps to construct energy-saving wood wall systems that meet code, are durable to the forces of nature and help homeowners save money.
Build A Better Home - A530
This publication describes the primary sources of moisture intrusion in wood wall construction and recommends methods to prevent moisture penetration.
Technical Guides - F430
This publication explains IRC-compliant wall bracing, explains why bracing is important and shows how to meet basic requirements for wall bracing in accordance with the code
The APA Wall Bracing Calculator is a free tool that streamlines the process of calculating IRC wall bracing compliance