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FAQs: Questions About Wood Structural Panel Exposure to Excessive Moisture

FAQ

Wood construction is durable and will normally be structurally sound after severe exposure to moisture. This could include significant weather events during the construction process or when construction sites are delayed but moisture management steps aren’t taken.

This publication is designed for: builders, contractors, homeowners

This publication provides guidance about the serviceability of wood structural panels (plywood and oriented strand board [OSB]) after exposure to high levels of moisture.

Key sections include:

  • APA trademark identification and water-resistant adhesives

  • Wood construction and water

  • What will plywood or OSB panels look like after a re-dry?

  • What about buckling?

  • What about a rough floor surface?

  • How to prevent floor squeaks

  • How to tell if plywood is delaminated

  • Will plywood delaminate in the future?

  • Following flood events

    • Fungal decay protection

    • How to tell if panels are dry

    • Odors

  • Additional APA resources

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.

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