OSB

OSB (Oriented Strand Board) is a material made out of large wood shavings glued together with resins and wax applying high heat and pressure. It is becoming more and more popular, especially in constructions to substitute plywood, due to its good strength and lower price.

OSB does not need old growth trees to be produced, and generally contains less formaldeyde than plywood and other wood materials.

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The life cycle	Pro	Con
	Low footprint OSB can be produced from small trees that are usually farmed. FSC OSB is available	High energy OSB needs high heat and pressure to be produced, just like plywood, particleboard and MDF. Show Alternatives » Alternatives materials that have low embodied energy Bamboo stems Construction site wood Reclaimed wood Scaffolding wood Second hand particle board Used pallets

	Non toxic OSB is usually made with resins that contain less formaldehyde than plywood, MDF and particleboard Low cost OSB panels are cheaper than plywood Quick OSB can come in larger panels than other wood products, and it require less polishing because of its rough appearance		Tips Look for formaldehyde free OSB

	Non toxic OSB generally offgasses less formaldehyde and VOCs than other wood products	Short lifespan OSB is very vulnerable to swelling or de-lamination if exposed to hot temperatures or humidity Show Alternatives » Alternatives materials that have a long lifespan Northern hardwood Scaffolding wood Tropical hardwood

		Difficult recycling OSB waste can only be incinerated Show Alternatives » Alternatives materials that are easy to recycle Bamboo stems Northern hardwood Scaffolding wood Softwood Tropical hardwood Difficult reuse Because of its low durability OSB cannot be easily reused Show Alternatives » Alternatives materials that are easy to reuse Northern hardwood Reclaimed wood Scaffolding wood Tropical hardwood