A beginner’s guide to SterlingOSB Zero

Why is this board called OSB Zero?

SterlingOSB Zero is made with resins that do not contain formaldehyde, so is therefore more environmentally-friendly than previous ranges, and so helps safeguard building occupants. Also, the physical and technical properties of SterlingOSB Zero remain the same as previously, so meet all necessary standards. 

What is OSB and is it better than plywood?

OSB stands for ‘Oriented Strand Board’. In layman’s terms, this means strands of timber that are laid in cross directional layers and mechanically pressed to form a structurally-engineered board, designed for construction and other industrial use. We think OSB’s the natural successor to plywood because it’s more eco-friendly, is homegrown and far cheaper, while it has no voids or knots which can weaken plywood.

It sounds as though SterlingOSB Zero is basically made from flakes. Can I trust it as a flooring, or will it just fall apart in the rain; or be too weak?

No, it’s incredibly durable – and strong!  Our OSB3 is BBA-certified, as well as approved for load bearing in humid conditions – being manufactured to EN300 and EN 13986.  However, if you’re going to use it outdoors for prolonged periods, you can paint or varnish it, while it can also be treated to protect against fungal and insect attack.  Here we recommend a three-minute dip cycle rather than the double-vacuum cycle.

Regarding strength, OSB3 15mm has the same strength properties as 18mm P5 chipboard flooring.  Comparatively, 18mm OSB3 can be used as a substitute for 22mm P5.

How do you use it as a floating floor, then?

If requiring a battened floating floor, you must ensure that battens for the substructure are appropriately spaced at 400mm centres beneath 15mm boards and up to 600mm for the 18mm version.  Remember though, all floating floors will need to employ a damp-proof membrane (DPM).

Is there anything else I should know about SterlingOSB Zero?

Yes!  We make it in T&G (tongue and groove) format too, so that it can be used for roofing and timber frame construction, as well as flooring.

Also, there’s no need for sanding the boards anymore, as we’ve been able to produce them to a much tighter tolerance.  The new boards offer a really smooth surface which has been tested with various coatings: e.g., GRP (Tuff Stuff & Cure It), rubber and felt, making it an ideal substrate which is easy to work with. Check out our housebuilders’ page https://uk.westfraser.com/housebuilders/ where, amongst lots of useful downloads, you’ll find out things you may not already know about West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero https://uk.westfraser.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/31625_WEST-FRASER_Housebuilder-Download_AW.pdf