particle board vs plywood

[riogrande5761]

I wonder if the OP meant OSB when he said particle board.  I used to refer to it that way too but it is a different materal isn't it.

[skagitrailbird]

Particle board WILL sag unless the underlying supports are quite close together--say 12" centers or even a bit less, somewhat dependent upon the thickness. What you save compared to the plywood cost will probably be more than offset by the cost of additional supports. Everything I have read and heard says stick with plywood.

[riogrande5761]

mlehman

You'll get lots of opinions on that. If you do go with particle board, you'll need closer supports. Given it's the base for everything that goes on top staying straight and level over the years, plywood is a better investment IMO.

Maybe, or maybe not.  I found the information in the following link which seemed so support the notion that OSB (Oriented Strandboard) interesting to read - just one quote:

http://bct.eco.umass.edu/publications/by-title/choosing-between-oriented-strandboard-and-plywood/

"Osb and plywood share the same exposure durability classifications: Interior, Exposure 1 (95% of all structural panels), Exposure 2 and Exterior. They share the same set of performance standards and span ratings."

Much of the information implies to me that OSB would work fine for a layout in humidity controlled conditions such as a basement with a dehumidifier.

I'm on a budget and the 8 dollars per sheet helped.  Much of the area I've used mine on is a sandwich of homasote and OSB 7/16-inch.  It seems pretty staple and not prone to sagging to me so far, so good.  I've noted a number of other layouts using it - I also used it in my garage layout in the early 1990's and it worked ok for the few years used it before moving. 

[Medina1128]

I have to agree with Mike. Not only is plywood more supportive, you'll find it cheaper, as well.

[mlehman]

You'll get lots of opinions on that. If you do go with particle board, you'll need closer supports. Given it's the base for everything that goes on top staying straight and level over the years, plywood is a better investment IMO.

[csx sd80]

building layout want to know if i can use particale board in stead of plywood for base due to the high price of plywood