1/ Composition:
- OSB is made from small, thin wood strands that are layered and oriented in specific directions and then compressed and bonded together with wax and adhesive.
- Plywood is made from thin sheets of wood veneer that are glued together with each layer’s grain perpendicular to the adjacent layer.
2/ Appearance:
- OSB has a rough and uneven surface with visible wood strands.
- Plywood has a smoother and more uniform surface with visible layers of wood veneer.
3/ Strength and stiffness:
- OSB tends to be stronger and stiffer than plywood due to its layered construction and the orientation of wood strands.
- Plywood is also strong and stiff but may have more variability depending on the quality of the wood veneer used.
4/ Moisture resistance:
- OSB is more susceptible to swelling and delamination when exposed to moisture compared to plywood.
- Plywood, especially marine-grade plywood, is more resistant to moisture and is often used in applications where water exposure is a concern.
6/ Cost:
- OSB is generally less expensive than plywood, making it a popular choice for projects where cost is a significant factor.
Both OSB and plywood have their advantages and are suitable for different applications depending on factors such as cost, strength requirements, and moisture resistance.