Panel Design Specification

Panel
Design
Specication
FORM NO. D510C 2012 APA THE ENGINEERED WOOD ASSOCIATION WWW.APAWOOD.ORG 2
Panel Design Specification
Engineered wood products are a good choice for the environment. They are
manufactured for years of trouble-free, dependable use. They help reduce waste
by decreasing disposal costs and product damage. Wood is a renewable resource
that is easily manufactured into a variety of viable products.
A few facts about wood.
Were growing more wood every day. Forests fully cover one-third of the United
States and one-half of Canadas land mass. American landowners plant more than
two billion trees every year. In addition, millions of trees seed naturally. The forest
products industry, which comprises about 15 percent of forestland ownership, is
responsible for 41 percent of replanted forest acreage. That works out to more than
one billion trees a year, or about three million trees planted every day. This high rate of replanting
accounts for the fact that each year, 27 percent more timber is grown than is harvested. Canadas
replanting record shows a fourfold increase in the number of trees planted between 1975 and 1990.
Life Cycle Assessment shows wood is the greenest building product.

A 2004 Consortium for Research on Renewable Industrial Materials (CORRIM)
study gave scientific validation to the strength of wood as a green building product.
In examining building products life cycles from extraction of the raw material
to demolition of the building at the end of its long lifespan CORRIM found that
wood was better for the environment than steel or concrete in terms of embodied energy, global
warming potential, air emissions, water emissions and solid waste production. For the complete
details of the report, visit www.CORRIM.org.
Manufacturing wood is energy efficient. Wood products made up 47 percent of all industrial
raw materials manufactured in the United States, yet
consumed only 4 percent of the energy needed to
manufacture all industrial raw materials, according
to a 1987 study.
Good news for a healthy planet. For every ton of

wood grown, a young forest produces 1.07 tons of
oxygen and absorbs 1.47 tons of carbon dioxide.
Wood: Its the natural choice for the environment, for
design and for strong, lasting construction.
NOTICE:
The recommendations in
this brochure apply only
to products that bear
the APA trademark.
Only products bearing
the APA trademark
are subject to the
Associations quality
auditing program.
RATED SHEATHING
32/16
SIZED FOR SPACING
EXPOSURE 1
THICKNESS 0.451 IN.
PS 1-09 C-D PRP-108
15/32 CATEGORY
000
WOOD
The Natural Choice
Percent of Percent of
Material Production Energy Use
Wood 47 4
Steel 23 48
Aluminum 2 8
2
0
1
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This Specification presents recommended design
capacities and design methods for wood structural
panels when used in building construction and
related structures. Design information on other
wood structural panel applications such as con-
crete forming, trench shoring, pallets, bins, tanks,
shelving and agricultural structures can be found in
other APA publications. The information stems from
extensive and continuing test programs conducted by
APA The Engineered Wood Association, by other
wood structural panel certification bodies, and by
the United States Forest Products Laboratory, and
is supported by years of satisfactory experience.
Information in this Specification applies to untreated
(except as noted) wood structural panels made in
accordance with Voluntary Product Standard
PS 1-09 or PS 2-10, promulgated by the United
States Department of Commerce, and/or with APA
manufacturing standards and specifications.
The technical data in this Specification are presented
as the basis for competent engineering design. For
such design to result in satisfactory service, adequate
materials and fabrication are also required. All
wood structural panels should bear the trademark of
a certification body, such as APA The Engineered
Wood Association.
The information contained herein is based on
APA The Engineered Wood Associations continu-
ing programs of laboratory testing, product research
and comprehensive field experience. Neither APA,
nor its members make any warranty, expressed or
implied, or assume any legal liability or responsibil-
ity for the use, application of, and/or reference to
opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations
included in this publication. Consult your local juris-
diction or design professional to assure compliance
with code, construction and performance require-
ments. Because APA has no control over quality of
workmanship or the conditions under which engi-
neered wood products are used, it cannot accept
responsibility for product performance or designs
as actually constructed.
CONTENTS
PANEL DESIGN SPECIFICATION . . . . .
5
1. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
1.1. Plywood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2. Oriented strand board . . . . . . . . . . 6
2. SELECTING PANELS . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7
2.1. Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2. Veneer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3. Panel grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.4. Bond classifications . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.5. Span ratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3. CODE PROVISIONS . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
4. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES . . . . . .
13
4.1. Strength axis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.2. Panel construction . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.3. Properties and stresses . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4. Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.5. Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.6. Section properties . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
4.7. Uniform load computations . . . . . 26
4.8. Design examples showing use of
capacity tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5. REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33
6. CONVERSION FACTORS . . . . . . . .
34
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION . . . . . .
35
About APA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Accept The Panel
Load-Span
Criteria Satisfied?
Use Load-Span Tables
(APA Technical Note,
Form Q225)
Select A Trial Panel
Panel Design
Specification
Determine Required
Allowable Capacities
End-Use
Conditions
Consistent With
Reference
Conditions?
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Adjusted Allowable
Capacities
>
Applied
Capacities?
Calculated
Deflections
<
Deflection
Criteria?
No
PANEL DESIGN SPECIFICATION
1. INTRODUCTION
Wood structural panels available today respond to changes in wood resources, manufacturing, and construction trends,
meet designer needs for excellent strength, and are light weight while using the only renewable building material. A
wood structural panel is a panel product composed primarily of wood, which, in its end use, is essentially dependent
upon certain structural and/or physical properties for successful performance in service. Such a product is manufactured
to standards that clearly identify its intended end use. Today, wood structural panels include plywood and mat-formed
panels such as oriented strand board (OSB). Composite panels containing a combination of veneer and wood-based
material have also been produced.
In the early days of plywood manufacturing, every mill worked with several species only and nearly identical technol-
ogy. Manufacturing techniques didnt vary much from mill to mill. To produce panels under prescriptive standards, a
mill used wood of a certain species, peeled it to veneer of a prescribed thickness, then glued the veneers together in a
prescribed manner using approved adhesives.
As technology changed, mills started using a broader range of species and different manufacturing techniques. With
the development of U.S. Product Standard PS 1-66 for Softwood Plywood Construction & Industrial, three existing
plywood standards were combined into one. And, for the first time, span ratings for construction uses were incorporated
into the standard. The span rating concept would later be used as a basis for the development of performance standards.
At the same time, there was a growing need to increase efficient use of forest resources. Working in cooperation with the
U.S. Forest Service, the American Plywood Association (APA) (now APA The Engineered Wood Association) tested panels
manufactured with a core of compressed wood strands and traditional wood veneer on the face and back for use in structural
applications. By using cores composed of wood strands, manufacturers were able to make more efficient use of the wood
resource and use a broader range of species. These panels are called composite panels.
In the course of the research on composite panels, performance standards were developed that led to a system of per-
formance rated panels. Soon, manufacturers were making wood structural panels composed entirely of wood strands.
Most current production of these panels, intended for use in structural applications, is referred to as oriented strand
board, or OSB.
1.1. Plywood
Plywood is the original wood structural panel. It is composed of thin sheets of veneer, or plies, arranged in layers to form
a panel. Plywood always has an odd number of layers, each one consisting of one or more plies, or veneers.
In the manufacturing of plywood, a log is turned on a lathe and a long knife blade peels the veneer. The veneers are
clipped to a suitable width, dried, graded, and repaired if necessary. Next the veneers are laid up in cross-laminated
layers. Sometimes a layer will consist of two or more plies with the grain running in the same direction, but there will
always be an odd number of layers, with the face layers typically having the grain oriented parallel to the long dimension
of the panel.
Moisture-resistant adhesive is applied to the veneers that are to be laid up. Laid-up veneers are then put in a hot press where
they are bonded to form panels.
Wood is strongest along its grain, and shrinks and swells most across the grain. By alternating grain direction between
adjacent layers, strength and stiffness in both directions are maximized, and shrinking and swelling are minimized in
each direction.
1.2. Oriented strand board
Panels manufactured of compressed wood wafers or strands have been marketed with such names as waferboard and
oriented strand board. Today, virtually all mat-formed wood structural panels are manufactured with oriented strands,
and are commonly called oriented strand board (OSB).
OSB is composed of compressed strands arranged in layers (usually three to five) oriented at right angles to one another,
and bonded under heat and pressure with a moisture-resistant adhesive. The orientation of strands into directional
layers achieves the same advantages of cross-laminated veneers in plywood. Since wood is stronger along the grain, the
cross-lamination distributes woods natural strength in both directions of the panel.
Most OSB sheathing panels have a non-skid surface on one side for safety on the construction site, particularly when
used as sheathing on pitched roofs.
2. SELECTING PANELS
Wood structural panels are selected according to a number of key attri-
butes. These attributes are identified in the APA trademark found on
the panel. Examples are seen in Figure 1, and further explained in the
paragraphs that follow.
2.1. Standards
Manufacturing standards for wood structural panels are primarily of two
types: prescriptive or performance based. In the past, plywood standards
have been primarily of the prescriptive type. The prescriptive standard
approach provides a recipe for panel layup, specifying the species of veneer
and the number, thickness and orientation of plies that are required to
achieve panels of the desired nominal thickness and strength. An alternative
approach is to utilize performance-based standards. Such standards specify
performance levels required for common end uses rather than manufactur-
ing aspects of construction. Performance standards permit oriented strand
board and plywood to be rated similarly for uses in the construction market.
Another distinction between standards is whether they are consensus-
based or proprietary. Consensus-based standards are developed
following a prescribed set of rules that provide for input and/or review
by people of varying interests following one of several recognized
procedures. Other standards are of a proprietary nature and may be
developed by a single company or industry group. Sometimes propri-
etary standards become the forerunners of consensus standards. This
was the case with APAs proprietary standard PRP-108, Performance
Standards and Qualification Policy for Wood Structural Panels, which
became the foundation for the consensus-based Voluntary Product
Standard PS 2, which was developed to achieve broader recognition of
performance standards for wood structural panels.
2.1.1. Voluntary Product Standard PS 1
Voluntary Product Standard PS 1, Structural Plywood, is a consensus
standard that originated in 1966 when it combined several preced-
ing U.S. Commercial Standards, each covering a different species of
plywood. While originating as a prescriptive standard, the 1983 ver-
sion added performance-based provisions as an alternative method
of qualifying sheathing and single-floor grades of plywood for span
ratings. PS 1 continues to offer only prescriptive provisions for other
panel grades such as a variety of sanded plywood grades. Consult with
www.apawood.org for the latest version of PS 1.
2.1.2. Voluntary Product Standard PS 2
Voluntary Product Standard PS 2, Performance Standard for Wood-
Based Wood Structural Panels, was promulgated in 1992 as the first
consensus-based performance standard for wood structural panels. The
standard was based on APAs PRP-108.
PS 2 is not limited to plywood, but applies to all wood-based structural
panels in general, regardless of composition. It covers sheathing and
single-floor grades only, and includes performance criteria, qualification
1 Panel grade
2 Span Rating
3 Tongue-and-groove
4 Siding face grade
5 Species group number
6 Bond classification
7 Decimal thickness designation (this value
is generally at or near the lower tolerance
specified in PS 1 or PS 2)
8 Mill number
9 Product Standard
10 APAs performance rated panel standard
11 HUD recognition
12 Performance Category
13 Panel grade, Canadian standard
14 Panel mark Rating and end-use designation
per the Canadian standard
15 Canadian performance rated panel standard
16 Panel face grain orientation indicator
FIGURE 1
TYPICAL TRADEMARKS
requirements and test methods. Wood structural panels manufactured in conformance with PS 1 and PS 2 are recognized
in all model building codes and most local codes in the United States. Also developed in concert with PS 2, with virtually
identical provisions, was CSA-O325, Con struc tion Sheathing, which is recognized in the National Building Code of Canada.
Consult with www.apawood.org for the latest version of PS 2.
2.1.3. Proprietary standards
The prototype proprietary performance standard for wood structural panels is APA PRP-108, Performance Standards and
Qualification Policy for Wood Structural Panels. The APA standard includes performance provisions for sheathing and
single-floor grades, but also includes provisions for siding. Although PRP-108, promulgated in 1980, is quite mature, it
remains in effect to take advantage of technical developments more expeditiously than would be possible with the rather
time-consuming consensus process required by PS 2.
2.1.4. Thickness Designation and Performance Category
Up until 2008, the thickness of structural panels like plywood and OSB was designated and labeled by the panels nominal
thickness which was subject to a plus and minus tolerance specified in the Voluntary Product Standards PS 1 and PS 2.
The tolerance on unsanded panel types used in construction is plus or minus 1/32 inch of the designated thickness. The
tolerance on sanded grades of plywood is plus or minus 1/64 inch of the designated thickness. These thickness tolerances
were applied at the time of manufacturing or at a standard dry condition since it is recognized that actual panel thickness
may naturally change due to changes in panel moisture conditions.
Model codes, technical recommendations, designs and specifications have been based upon the use of these panel
nominal thicknesses. However, packaging and labeling regulations adopted as state and local law specify that labeling of
dimensions comply with standards developed by the National Conference on Weights and Measures. These regulations
require dimensional labeling that is incompatible with the thickness tolerances specified in PS 1 and PS 2. To jointly
comply with these regulations while maintaining the specifications within model codes and other existing specifications
used in the construction industry, structural panels are now labeled with both a Performance Category and a decimal
thickness designation. The decimal thickness designation is generally at or near the lower thickness tolerances permitted
in PS 1 and PS 2.
The term Performance Category is defined within PS 1 and PS 2 as a panel designation related to the panel thickness
range that is linked to the nominal panel thickness designations used in the International Building Code (IBC)
and International Residential Code (IRC). For purposes of labeling, abbreviations PERF CAT, CAT, or Category
are permitted within the panel grade mark. The 2012 IBC and IRC state that the Performance Category value shall
be used as the nominal panel thickness or panel thickness whenever referenced in the code.
This publication widely uses the Performance Category as the panel designation. There are some places where tradi-
tional nominal thickness designations are used, and in those instances, they should be considered as equivalent to the
Performance Category.
2.2. Veneer
Wood veneer is at the heart of a plywood panel. The veneer used is classified according to species group and grade
requirements of PS 1.
2.2.1. Species groups
While plywood can be manufactured from nearly any wood species, under PS 1 over 70 species of wood are rated for use based
on strength and stiffness. This grouping into five Groups is presented in Table 1. Strongest species are in Group 1; the next strongest
in Group 2, and so on. The Group number that appears in the trademark on most non-span-rated panels primarily sanded
grades is based on the species used for face and back veneers. Where face and back veneers are not from the same species Group,
the higher Group number (the lower strength species) is used, except for sanded panels with Performance Category of 3/8 or less
and Decorative panels of any thickness. These latter panels are identified by face species because they are chosen primarily for
appearance and used in applications where structural integrity is not critical. Sanded panels with Performance Category greater
than 3/8 are identified by face species if C or D grade backs are at least 1/8 inch and are no more than one species group number
higher. Some species are used widely in plywood manufacture; others rarely. The specifier should check local availability if a
particular species is desired.
TABLE 1
CLASSIFICATION OF SPECIES
(a)
Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Group 5
North American Species Applicable to trees grown in North America
Beech, American
Birch
Sweet
Yellow
Douglas-fir
(b)
Larch, Western
Maple, Sugar
Pine, Southern
Loblolly
Longleaf
Shortleaf
Slash
Tanoak
Cedar, Port Orford
Cypress
Douglas-fir
(b)

Fir
Balsam
California Red
Grand
Noble
Pacific Silver
White
Hemlock, Western
Maple, Black
Pine
Pond
Red
Virginia
Western White
Spruce
Black
Red
Sitka
Sweetgum
Tamarack
Yellow Poplar
Alder, Red
Birch, Paper
Cedar, Alaska
Fir, Subalpine
Hemlock, Eastern
Maple, Bigleaf
Pine
Jack
Lodgepole
Ponderosa
Spruce
Redwood
Spruce
Engelmann
White
Aspen
Bigtooth
Quaking
Cedar
Incense
Western Red
Cottonwood
Eastern
Black (W. Poplar)
Pine
Eastern White
Sugar
Basswood
Poplar,
Balsam
Non North American Species
Apitong
(c)(d)
Kapur
(c)
Keruing
(c)(d)
Pine
Caribbean
Ocote
Lauan
Almon
Bagtikan
Mayapis
Red Lauan
Tangile
White Lauan
Mengkulang
(c)
Meranti, Red
(c)(e)
Mersawa
(c)
Cativo
(a) Table 1 species classified in accordance with ASTM D2555 as discussed in Appendix A of Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-09, Structural
Plywood, APA Form L870. The species groupings are only valid for species grown in the regions referenced in Appendix A of PS 1-09.
(See Section 5.2.1. of PS 1-09 for additional information.)
(b) Douglas-fir from trees grown in the states of Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and the Canadian Provinces
of Alberta and British Columbia shall be classed as Group 1 Douglas-fir. Douglas-fir from trees grown in the states of Nevada, Utah,
Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico shall be classed as Group 2 Douglas-fir.
(c) Each of these names represents a trade group of woods consisting of a number of closely related species.
(d) Species from the genus Dipterocarpus marketed collectively: Apitong if originating in the Philippines, Keruing if originating in Malaysia or
Indonesia.
(e) Red Meranti shall be limited to species having a specific gravity of 0.41 or more based on green volume and oven dry weight.
2.2.2. Grades
Veneer grades define veneer
appearance in terms of natural
unrepaired growth character-
istics and allowable number
and size of repairs that may
be made during manufacture.
See Table 2. The highest qual-
ity commonly available veneer
grade is A. The minimum
grade of veneer permitted in
Exterior plywood is C-grade.
D-grade veneer is used in
panels intended for applica-
tions protected from long-term
exposure to weather.
2.3. Panel grades
Wood structural panel grades
are generally identified in
terms of the veneer grade used on the face and back of the panel (e.g., A-B, B-C, etc.), or by a name suggesting the panels
intended end use (e.g., APA Rated Sheathing, APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor, etc.). See Table 3. Unsanded and touch-sanded
panels, and panels with B-grade or better veneer on one side only, usually carry the trademark of a qualified inspection
and testing agency (such as APA) on the panel back. Panels with both sides of B-grade or better veneer, or with special
overlaid surfaces (such as High Density Overlay) usually carry the trademark on the panel edge.
2.3.1. Unsanded
Sheathing panels are unsanded since a smooth surface is not a requirement of their intended end use for subfloor, roof
and wall applications. Sheathing panels are classified by span ratings, which identify the maximum recommended
support spacings for specific end uses. Design capacities provided in 4.4. are on the basis of span ratings.
Structural I sheathing panels meet the requirements of sheathing grades as well as enhanced requirements associated
with use in panelized roof systems, diaphragms, and shear walls (e.g., increased cross-panel strength and stiffness, and
increased racking shear resistance).
2.3.2. Touch-sanded
Underlayment, Single Floor, C-D Plugged, and C-C Plugged grades require only touch sanding for sizing to make
the panel thickness more uniform. Panels rated for single floor (combination subfloor-underlayment) applications are
usually manufactured with tongue-and-groove (T&G) edge profiles, and are classified by span ratings. Single Floor
panel span ratings identify the maximum recommended support spacings for floors. Design capacities provided in 4.4.
are on the basis of span ratings. Other thinner panels intended for separate underlayment applications (Underlayment
or C-C Plugged) are identified with a species Group number but no span rating.
2.3.3. Sanded
Plywood panels with B-grade or better veneer faces are always sanded smooth in manufacture to fulfill the requirements
of their intended end use applications such as cabinets, shelving, furniture, built-ins, etc. Sanded grades are classed
according to Performance Category and the species group of the faces. Design capacities provided in 4.4. are based on
Performance Category and assume Group 1 faces.
TABLE 2
VENEER GRADES
A
Smooth, paintable. Not more than 18 neatly made repairs, boat, sled, or
router type, and parallel to grain, permitted. Wood or synthetic repairs
permitted. May be used for natural finish in less demanding applications.
B
Solid surface. Shims, sled or router repairs, and tight knots to 1 inch across
grain permitted. Wood or synthetic repairs permitted. Some minor splits
permitted.
C
Plugged
Improved C veneer with splits limited to 1/8-inch width and knotholes or
other open defects limited to 1/4 x 1/2 inch. Wood or synthetic repairs
permitted. Admits some broken grain.
C
Tight knots to 1-1/2 inches. Knotholes to 1 inch across grain and some to
1-1/2 inches if total width of knots and knotholes is within specified limits.
Synthetic or wood repairs. Discoloration and sanding defects that do not
impair strength permitted. Limited splits allowed. Stitching permitted.
D
Knots and knotholes to 2-1/2-inch width across grain and 1/2 inch larger
within specified limits. Limited splits are permitted. Stitching permitted.
Limited to Exposure 1 panels.
2.3.4. Overlaid
High Density Overlay (HDO) and Medium Density Overlay (MDO) plywood may or may not have sanded faces, depending
on whether the overlay is applied at the same time the panel is pressed (one-step) or after the panel is pressed (two-step). For
purposes of assigning design capacities provided in 4.4., HDO and MDO panels are assumed to be sanded (two-step) with
Group 1 faces and B-grade veneer under the overlay.
2.4. Bond classifications
Wood structural panels may be produced in two bond classifications Exterior and Exposure 1. The bond classification
relates to adhesive bond, and thus to structural integrity of the panel.
TABLE 3
GUIDE TO PANEL USE
Panel
Construction
Panel Grade Description & Use
Common
Performance
Categories OSB Plywood
APA
RATED SHEATHING
EXP 1
Unsanded sheathing grade for wall, roof, subflooring, and
industrial applications such as pallets and for engineering
design with proper capacities.
5/16,
3/8, 7/16*,
15/32, 1/2,
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4
Yes Yes
APA
STRUCTURAL I
RATED SHEATHING
EXP 1
Panel grades to use where shear and cross-panel strength
properties are of maximum importance.
3/8, 7/16*,
15/32, 1/2,
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4
Yes Yes
APA RATED
STURD-I-FLOOR
EXP 1
Combination subfloor-underlayment. Provides smooth
surface for application of carpet and pad. Possesses high
concentrated and impact load resistance during con-
struction and occupancy. Touch-sanded. Available with
tongue-and-groove edges.
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4,
7/8, 1,
1-3/32, 1-1/8
Yes Yes
APA
UNDERLAYMENT
EXP 1
For underlayment under carpet and pad. Touch-sanded.
Available with tongue-and-groove edges for panels with
Performance Categories of 19/32 or greater.
1/4,
11/32, 3/8,
15/32, 1/2,
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4
No Yes
APA
C-C Plugged
EXT
For underlayment, refrigerated or controlled atmosphere
storage rooms, open soffits and other similar applications
where continuous or severe moisture may be present.
Touch-sanded. Available with tongue-and-groove edges
for panels with Performance Categories of 19/32 or
greater.
1/2,
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4
No Yes
APA
Sanded Grades
EXP 1 or EXT
Generally applied where a high quality surface is required.
Includes APA A-A, A-B, A-C, A-D, B-B, B-C and B-D
grades.
1/4,
11/32, 3/8,
15/32, 1/2,
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4
No Yes
APA
MARINE
EXT
Superior Exterior plywood made only with Douglas-fir or
Western Larch. Special solid-core construction. Available
with MDO or HDO face. Ideal for boat hull construction.
1/4,
11/32, 3/8,
15/32, 1/2,
19/32, 5/8,
23/32, 3/4
No Yes
*7/16 available in OSB only.
Bond classification relates to moisture resistance of the glue bond and does not relate to fungal decay resistance of the panel.
Fungal decay of wood products may occur when the moisture content exceeds approximately 20 percent for an extended period.
Prevention of fungal decay is a function of proper design to prevent prolonged exposure to moisture, of material specification,
of construction and of maintenance of the structure, or may be accomplished by pressure preservative treatment. See APA
literature regarding decay and moisture exposure.
Aesthetic (nonstructural) attributes of panels may be compromised to some degree by exposure to weather. Panel
surfaces may become uneven and irregular under prolonged moisture exposure. Panels should be allowed to dry, and
panel joints and surfaces may need to be sanded before applying some finish materials.
2.4.1. Exterior
A bond classification for plywood suitable for repeated wetting and redrying or long-term exposure to weather or other
conditions of similar severity.
2.4.2. Exposure 1
A bond classification for panels suitable for uses not permanently exposed to the weather. Panels classified as Exposure 1
are intended to resist the effects of moisture due to construction delays, or other conditions of similar severity. Exposure 1
panels are made with the same types of adhesives used in Exterior panels. However, because other compositional factors
may affect bond performance, only Exterior panels should be used for long-term exposure to the weather. Exposure 1
panels may, however, be used where exposure to the outdoors is on the underside only, such as at roof overhangs.
Appearance characteristics of the panel grade should also be considered.
C-D Exposure 1 plywood, sometimes called CDX in the trade, is occasionally mistaken as an Exterior panel and erroneously
used in applications for which it does not possess the required resistance to weather. CDX should only be used for applications
as outlined above.
2.5. Span ratings
Sheathing and Single Floor grades carry numbers in their trademarks called span ratings. These denote the maximum recom-
mended center-to-center spacing of supports, in inches, over which the panels should be placed in construction applications.
The span rating applies when the long panel dimension or strength axis is across supports, unless the strength axis is otherwise
identified. Note that the floor span rating of 20 is intended for end-use spans of 19.2 inches.
2.5.1. Sheathing
The span rating on Sheathing grade panels appears as two numbers separated by a slash, such as 32/16, 48/24, etc. The
left-hand number denotes the maximum recommended spacing of supports when the panel is used for roof sheathing
with the long dimension or strength axis of the panel across three or more supports (two or more spans). The right-hand
number indicates the maximum recommended spacing of supports when the panel is used for subflooring with the long
dimension or strength axis of the panel across three or more supports. A panel marked 32/16, for example, may be used
for roof sheathing over supports up to 32 inches on center or for subflooring over supports up to 16 inches on center.
Some roof sheathing maximum spans are dependent upon panel edge support. See Section 4.5.6. for more information.
Sheathing panels rated for use only as wall sheathing are usually identified as either Wall-24 or Wall-16. The numerical
index (24 or 16) corresponds to the maximum wall stud spacing in inches. Wall sheathing panels are performance tested
with the secondary axis (usually the short dimension of panel) spanning across supports, or studs. For this reason, wall
sheathing panels may be applied with either the strength axis or secondary axis across supports. Design capacities for
Wall-24 or Wall-16 are not covered in this specification due to the relatively small amount of production. These products
should be designed based on the span rating unless the design capacities are provided by the panel manufacturer.
2.5.2. Single floor
The span rating on Single Floor grade panels appears as a single number. Single Floor panels are designed specifically
for single-floor (combined subfloor-underlayment) applications and are manufactured with span ratings of 16, 20, 24,
32 and 48 oc. The span ratings for Single Floor panels, like those for Sheathing grade, are based on application of the
panel with the long dimension or strength axis across three or more supports.
3. CODE PROVISIONS
Recommendations given in APA literature for construction applications are generally consistent with provisions given in
the model building codes in the United States. However, most of the information herein has been expanded compared
to the code provisions, to be more useful to designers.
The general APA recommendations apply primarily to conventional or non-engineered construction, but can also be con-
sidered conservative for engineered construction. On the other hand, for engineered construction, codes contain provisions
for acceptance of engineering calculations, and design capacities given herein may be used. In many cases, calculations
using values in this document will lead to higher allowable design loads for sheathing. This is because the general APA and
code recommendations are based on minimum structural requirements or criteria of the performance standards, while the
design capacities are based on actual characteristics of panels qualified under the performance standards. Since it would
be difficult to manufacture a truly minimum panel with regard to all properties, panel characteristics meet or exceed
requirements of the standards.
Regardless of any increase in allowable load based on calculations, always observe the maximum recommended span
(e.g., span rating). Maximum span is established by test and is often controlled by concentrated load considerations.
4. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
Wood structural panels can typically be incorporated into construction projects without the need for engineering design
of the panels themselves. They lend themselves to tabular and descriptive presentation of design recommendations
and provisions. Occasionally, however, there is a need to engineer panel applications that call for panel properties or
capacities; or it may be necessary to evaluate specific panel constructions that yield superior mechanical properties
compared to those that are the basis for general use recommendations.
4.1. Strength axis
A feature of most wood structural panel types, primarily plywood and OSB, is that there is a strength axis associated with
their manufacture. The layered construction of both products, in which layers are oriented 90 degrees from one another,
creates dissimilar properties in the two principal directions. This is illustrated in Figure 2. The orientation of the face and
back layer determines the direction of the strength axis.
The panel strength axis is typically in the long panel direction; that is, the panel is typically stronger and stiffer along the panel
length than across the panel width. Specification of panel orientation, then, can be stated as strength axis is perpendicular
(or parallel) to supports or, sometimes, stress is parallel (or perpendicular) to the strength axis. In the case of plywood, the
strength axis is sometimes referred to as the face grain direction.
4.2. Panel construction
Plywood mills may use different layups for the same panel Performance Category and span rating to make optimum use
of their raw material resources. Design calculations must take into account the direction in which the stresses will be
imposed in the panel. If stresses can be expected in both directions, then both the parallel and perpendicular directions
should be checked. For this reason, tabulated capacities are given for both directions.
Capacities parallel to the face grain of plywood are based on a panel construction that gives minimum values in that
direction. (See Figure 3.) Capacities perpendicular to the face grain are usually based on a different panel construction
that gives minimum values in that direction. Both values, therefore, are conservative. Capacities given for the two
directions are not necessarily for the same panel construction.
Similar layers occur also in OSB manufacture. However, the layers are not defined and therefore cannot be specified.
For this reason, ply-layer options are not tabulated for OSB.
Strength Axis Direction Direction of Principal Stress
A
B
1'
4'
8'
1'
8'
4'
FIGURE 2
TYPICAL WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL WITH STRENGTH AXIS DIRECTION PERPENDICULAR TO OR ACROSS
SUPPORTS (A) AND PARALLEL TO SUPPORTS (B). Note the standard 4' x 8' size, strength axis direction, and
representative portion of panel used in calculation of capacities for stress parallel (A) or perpendicular (B) to the
strength axis.
4.3. Properties and stresses
Plywood properties have traditionally been separately tabulated as section properties and design stresses. These are
multiplied together to obtain a capacity. In many cases the resulting capacity will be quite conservative. Design stresses
are conservatively developed, taking into account grade factors and manufacturing factors, and then the data is statistically
analyzed such that it represents the low end of possible values. The stress is then further adjusted by a load factor or,
as some call it, a factor of safety.
At the same time, section properties are developed for virtually all possible layup combinations of veneer thickness
and species. The lowest property value for a given panel thickness or span rating is then chosen for tabulation. The
resulting capacity combines two already conservative values. In the 1990s, this procedure was largely replaced by direct
publication of panel capacities. However, the section property and design stress technique is still used occasionally to
analyze individual plywood layup variations.
Grain Direction of Veneers
5-layer (5-ply)
5-layer (6-ply)
3-layer (4-ply)
3-layer (3-ply)
FIGURE 3
TYPICAL THREE- AND FIVE-LAYER PLYWOOD CONSTRUCTION WITH PARALLEL-LAMINATED CROSS BANDS IN THE
4- AND 6-PLY PANELS
4.4. Capacities
Panel design capacities listed in Tables 8 and 9 are minimum for grade and span rating or Performance Category. For
Structural I panels, the tabulated capacities shall be permitted to be multiplied by the Structural I Multiplier factors
given in the bottom of each property table. Since Table 9 gives capacities for sanded panels marked as species Group 1,
Table 10 provides multipliers for sanded panel capacities that are identified as species Group 2, 3 or 4. The tabulated
capacities are based on data from tests of panels bearing the APA trademark. To take advantage of these capacities and
adjustments, the specifier must ensure that the correct panel is used in the final construction.
4.4.1. Panel flexure (flat panel bending)
Panel design capacities reported
in Tables 8 and 9 are based on
flat panel bending as measured
by testing in accordance with
ASTM D3043, Method C (large
panel testing). See Figure 4.
Stiffness (EI)
Panel bending stiffness is the
capacity to resist def lection
and is represented in bend-
ing equations as EI. The E is
the modulus of elasticity of
the material and the I is the
moment of inertia of the cross
section. Units of EI are lbf-in.
2

per foot of panel width.
Strength (F
b
S)
Allowable bending strength capacity is the design maximum moment, represented in bending equations as F
b
S. Terms
are the allowable extreme fiber stress of the material (F
b
) and the section modulus (S). Units of F
b
S are lbf-in. per foot
of panel width.
4.4.2. Panel axial strength
Tension (F
t
A)
Allowable tension capacities
are reported in Tables 8 and 9
based on testing in accordance
with ASTM D3500, Method B.
Tension capacity is given as F
t
A,
where F
t
is the allowable axial
tension stress of the material
and A is the area of the cross
section. Units of F
t
A are lbf per
foot of panel width.
Compression (F
c
A)
Allowable compression capaci-
ties are reported in Tables
8 and 9 based on testing in
accordance with ASTM D3501,
Method B. Compres sion capac-
ity is given as F
c
A, where F
c
is the allowable axial compression stress of the material, and A is the area of the cross section.
Units of F
c
A are lbf per foot of panel width. Axial compression strength is illustrated in Figure 5.
FIGURE 4
STRUCTURAL PANEL IN BENDING (A) STRESS PARALLEL TO STRENGTH AXIS
AND (B) STRESS PERPENDICULAR TO STRENGTH AXIS
A B
Strength axis direction
FIGURE 5
STRUCTURAL PANEL WITH AXIAL
COMPRESSION LOAD IN THE PLANE OF THE PANEL
4.4.3. Panel axial stiffness (EA)
Panel axial stiffness is reported in Tables 8 and 9 based on testing in accordance with ASTM D3501, Method B. Axial
stiffness is the capacity to resist axial strain and is represented by EA. The E is the axial modulus of elasticity of the
material and A is the area of the cross section. Units of EA are lbf per foot of panel width.
4.4.4. Shear in the plane of the panel (Fs[Ib/Q])
Allowable shear in the plane
of the panel (or interlaminar
shear, sometimes called
rolling shear in plywood)
is reported in Tables 8 and
9 based on testing in accor-
dance with ASTM D2718.
Shear strength in the plane
of the panel is the capacity
to resist horizontal shear
breaking loads when loads
are applied or developed on
opposite faces of the panel,
as they are during flat panel
bending. See Figure 6. The
term F
s
is the allowable
interlaminar shear stress,
while Ib/Q is the panel
cross sectional shear con-
stant. Units of F
s
(Ib/Q) are
lbf per foot of panel width.
4.4.5. Panel shear through the thickness (F
v
t
v
)
Allowable shear through the thickness is the capacity to resist horizontal shear breaking loads when loads are applied or
developed on opposite edges of the panel, such as they are in an I-joist web, and is reported in Tables 8 and 9. See Figure 6.
Panel shear-through-the-thickness capacities are reported based on testing in accordance with ASTM D2719. Where
additional support is not provided to prevent buckling, design capacities in Tables 8 and 9 are limited to sections 2 ft or less
in depth. Deeper sections may require additional reductions. The term F
v
is the allowable through-the-thickness shear stress,
while t
v
is the effective panel thickness for shear. Units of F
v
t
v
are lbf per inch of shear-resisting panel length.
4.4.6. Panel rigidity through the thickness (G
v
t
v
)
Panel rigidity is reported in Tables 8 and 9 and is the capacity to resist deformation when under shear-through-the-
thickness stress. Rigidity is represented by G
v
t
v
, where G
v
is the modulus of rigidity and t
v
is the effective panel thickness
for shear. The units of G
v
t
v
are lbf per inch of panel depth (for vertical applications). Multiplication of G
v
t
v
by panel depth
gives GA, used by designers for some applications.
4.4.7. Panel allowable bearing stress (F
c
)
Bearing stress is the compression stress perpendicular to the plane of the plies or to the surface of the panel. As compression
load is applied to panels (such as by columns or by reactions at supports), bearing stress is induced through the bearing area.
Panel bearing stress is based on testing in accordance with ASTM D143. The allowable bearing stress of APA wood structural
panels is derived based on the load at a 0.04-in. deformation limit. A design bearing stress of 360 psi shall be used for wood
structural panels under dry-use conditions where moisture content is less than 16 percent. Multiplying the allowable bearing
stress by the bearing area gives the bearing capacity, F
c
A, in lbf.
FIGURE 6
TWO TYPES OF PANEL SHEAR: SHEAR THROUGH THE THICKNESS
AND SHEAR IN THE PLANE OF THE PANEL
Shear through the thickness
Shear in the plane
Shear area
A reduced design bearing stress may be appropriate where bearing deformation could affect load distribution or where total
deformation of members must be closely controlled. The allowable panel bearing stress value at 0.02-inch deformation (F
c0.02"
)
can be chosen as 210 psi.
4.4.8. Fastener properties
Table 4 shows the specific gravity for wood structural panels that is equivalent to the specific gravity for solid-sawn
lumber (also known as equivalent specific gravity or ESG) for fastener properties in dry service conditions where
the equilibrium moisture content is less than 16 percent. The fastener properties when installed with wood structural
panels can be determined using the ESG, in lieu of the lumber specific gravity (G), and the fastener design provisions
provided in the NDS.
TABLE 4
EQUIVALENT SPECIFIC GRAVITY (ESG) FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS IN DRY SERVICE CONDITIONS
Loading Mode Fasteners
(a)
Plywood
OSB Group 1 Others
Withdrawal
Nails (Smooth- or Screw-Shank) 0.40 0.40 0.40
Nails (Ring-Shank) 0.70 0.70 0.70
Wood screws 0.45 0.45 0.45
Lateral Dowel-type fasteners (nails, screws and bolts)
(a)
0.50 0.42
(b)
0.50
(a) For fastener diameter of 1/4 in. or less.
(b) Use 0.42 when species of the plies is not known. When species of the plies is known, specific gravity listed for the actual species and the
corresponding dowel bearing strength may be used, or the weighted average may be used for mixed species.
4.4.8.1. Nail withdrawal strength
Under certain circumstances, such as strong gusts of wind or hurricanes, sheathing or siding may be loosened or detached
as nails are withdrawn from the wood structural panels. Based on extensive testing conducted by APA in accordance
with ASTM D1761, the equivalent specific gravity values for nail withdrawal strength with wood structural panels are
listed in Table 4, which can be used to estimate the reference nail withdrawal strength from wood structural panels using
Eq 1. The reference nail withdrawal strength shall be multiplied by all applicable adjustment factors (see Section 4.5 of
this specification and Table 10.3.1 of the National Design Specification for Wood Construction (NDS)) to obtain adjusted
nail withdrawal design values.
W = 1380 G
5/2
D [1]
Where:
W = reference nail withdrawal design value (lbf/in. penetration)
G = equivalent specific gravity (ESG) listed in Table 4
D = nail diameter (in.)
4.4.8.2. Wood screw withdrawal strength
Withdrawal strength of wood screws from wood structural panels depend on a number of variables, including the type
and diameter of the screw, the specific gravity of the wood component, the effective penetration of the threaded portion
of the screw, and moisture conditions. Wood screw withdrawal tests are conducted in accordance with ASTM D1761.
The equivalent specific gravity values for wood screw withdrawal strength with wood structural panels are listed in
Table 4, which can be used to estimate the reference wood screw withdrawal strength from wood structural panels
using Eq. 2. The reference wood screw withdrawal strength shall be multiplied by all applicable adjustment factors (see
Section 4.5 of this specification and Table 10.3.1 of the NDS) to obtain adjusted wood screw withdrawal design values.
W = 2850 G
2
D [2]
Where:
W = reference wood screw withdrawal design value (lbf/in. thread penetration)
G = equivalent specific gravity (ESG) listed in Table 4
D = wood screw diameter (in.)
4.4.8.3. Fastener lateral strength
Lateral strength of dowel-type fasteners from structural panels shall be calculated using the dowel bearing strength of
wood structural panels as a function of the ESG listed in Table 4 and the yield limit equations provided in Table 11.3.1A
of the NDS. The reference lateral strength shall be multiplied by all applicable adjustment factors (see Section 4.5 of this
specification and Table 10.3.1 of the NDS) to obtain adjusted lateral design values.
4.4.8.4. Nailhead pull-through strength
A nailed sheathing-to-lumber joint may be limited by either nail withdrawal from the lumber or by nailhead pull-through
strength of the wood structural panel. Nailhead pull-through resistance is affected by many factors, such as the nailhead
diameter, and the thickness and specific gravity of the wood structural panel. Testing for the nailhead pull-through
resistance is based on ASTM D1037. Reference APA Technical Topic: Nailhead Pull-Through Strength of Wood Structural
Panels, Form TT-070 for more information.
4.5. Adjustments
Panel design capacities may be adjusted as required under the following
provisions.
4.5.1. Duration of load (DOL)
Design capacities listed are based on normal duration of load as tradition-
ally used for solid wood in accordance with U.S. Forest Products Laboratory
Report R-1916, and successfully used for plywood for approximately 60 years.
Adjust ment factors for strength capacities (C
D
) are shown in Table 5.
TABLE 5
LOAD DURATION FACTORS FOR
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS
Time Under Load
DOL
Adjustment
Factor* (C
D
)
Permanent 0.90
Normal 1.00
Two Months 1.15
Seven Days 1.25
Wind or Earthquake 1.60
* Adjustment for impact load does not apply
to wood structural panels.
Creep
Wood structural panels under constant load will creep (deflection will increase)
over time. For typical construction applications, panels are not normally under
constant load and, accordingly, creep need not be considered in design. When
panels will sustain permanent loads that will stress the product to one-half or
more of its design strength capacity, allowance should be made for creep. Limited
data indicates that under such conditions, creep may be taken into account in
deflection calculations by applying the applicable creep adjustment factor (C
C
)
to panel stiffness, EI, as shown in Table 6.
See 4.5.2 for additional adjustments related to service moisture conditions,
which for EI is cumulative with the creep adjustment.
4.5.2. Service moisture conditions
Design capacities apply to panels under moisture conditions that are continu-
ously dry in service; that is, where equilibrium moisture content is less than
16 percent. Adjustment factors for conditions where the panel moisture content
in service is expected to be 16 percent or greater are shown in Table 7.
4.5.3. Elevated temperature
Capacities in Tables 8 and 9 apply at temperatures of 70F and lower. Wood
structural panel parts of buildings should not be exposed to temperatures
above 200F for more than very brief periods. However, between 70F and
200F, adjustments to capacity generally do not need to be made, because
the need for adjustment of dry capacities depends upon whether moisture
content will remain in the 12 to 15 percent range or whether the panel will
dry to lower moisture contents as a result of the increase in temperature. If
drying occurs, as is usually the case, the increase in strength due to drying
can offset the loss in strength due to elevated temperature. For instance,
temperatures of up to 150F or higher do occur under roof coverings of
buildings on hot days, but they are accompanied by moisture content
reductions which offset the strength loss so that high temperatures are
not considered in the design of roof structures. To maintain a moisture
content of 12 percent at 150F, sustained relative humidity of around 80%
would be required. The designer needs to exercise judgment in determining
whether high temperature and moisture content occur simultaneously, and
the corresponding need for temperature adjustment of capacities.
4.5.4. Pressure treatment
Preservative treatment
Capacities given in this document apply, without adjustment, to plywood pressure-impregnated with preservative chemicals
and redried in accordance with American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Standard U1. OSB panels are currently recom-
mended only for non-pressure applications of preservative treating in accordance with AWPA Standard T1.
Fire-retardant treatment
Discussion in this document does not apply to fire-retardant-treated structural panels. However, some general information
on fire-retardant treated plywood roof sheathing is available in APA Technical Note: Fire-Retardant-Treated (FRT) Plywood,
Form K320. For fire-retardant-treated plywood, all capacities and end-use conditions shall be in accordance with the
recommendations and/or model code evaluation reports of the company providing the treating and redrying service.
TABLE 7
MOISTURE CONTENT
ADJUSTMENT FACTORS FOR
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS
Capacity
Moisture
Content
Adjustment
Factor (C
M
)
Strength
(F
b
S, F
t
A, F
c
A,
F
s
[Ib/Q], F
v
t
v
) 0.75
Stiffness
(EI, EA, G
v
t
v
) 0.85
Bearing (F
c
A)
Plywood
OSB
0.50
0.20
Nail withdrawal
strength 0.75
Wood screw withdrawal
strength and lateral
strength for dowel-type
fasteners (nails, screws
and bolts) of 1/4 inch
or less in diameter
NDS Table
10.3.3
TABLE 6
CREEP ADJUSTMENT FACTORS
FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS
Creep Adjustment
Factor (C
c
) for
Permanent Loads
Moisture
Condition Plywood OSB
Dry 1/2 1/2
16% m.c.
or greater
1/2 1/6
TABLE 8
RATED PANELS DESIGN CAPACITIES
Span
Rating
Stress Parallel to Strength Axis Stress Perpendicular to Strength Axis
Plywood
OSB
Plywood
OSB 3-ply 4-ply 5-ply 3-ply 4-ply 5-ply
PANEL BENDING STIFFNESS, EI (lbf-in.
2
/ft of panel width)
24/0 66,000 66,000 66,000 60,000 3,600 7,900 11,000 11,000
24/16 86,000 86,000 86,000 78,000 5,200 11,500 16,000 16,000
32/16 125,000 125,000 125,000 115,000 8,100 18,000 25,000 25,000
40/20 250,000 250,000 250,000 225,000 18,000 39,500 56,000 56,000
48/24 NA 440,000 440,000 400,000 NA 65,000 91,500 91,500
16 oc 165,000 165,000 165,000 150,000 11,000 24,000 34,000 34,000
20 oc 230,000 230,000 230,000 210,000 13,000 28,500 40,500 40,500
24 oc NA 330,000 330,000 300,000 NA 57,000 80,500 80,500
32 oc NA NA 715,000 650,000 NA NA 235,000 235,000
48 oc NA NA 1,265,000 1,150,000 NA NA 495,000 495,000
Structural I Multiplier
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.6
PANEL BENDING STRENGTH, F
b
S (lbf-in./ft of panel width)
24/0 250 275 300 300 54 65 97 97
24/16 320 350 385 385 64 77 115 115
32/16 370 405 445 445 92 110 165 165
40/20 625 690 750 750 150 180 270 270
48/24 NA 930 1,000 1,000 NA 270 405 405
16 oc 415 455 500 500 100 120 180 180
20 oc 480 530 575 575 140 170 250 250
24 oc NA 705 770 770 NA 260 385 385
32 oc NA NA 1,050 1,050 NA NA 685 685
48 oc NA NA 1,900 1,900 NA NA 1,200 1,200
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.5
PANEL AXIAL TENSION, F
t
A (lbf/ft of panel width)
24/0 2,300 2,300 3,000 2,300 600 600 780 780
24/16 2,600 2,600 3,400 2,600 990 990 1,300 1,300
32/16 2,800 2,800 3,650 2,800 1,250 1,250 1,650 1,650
40/20 2,900 2,900 3,750 2,900 1,600 1,600 2,100 2,100
48/24 NA 4,000 5,200 4,000 NA 1,950 2,550 2,550
16 oc 2,600 2,600 3,400 2,600 1,450 1,450 1,900 1,900
20 oc 2,900 2,900 3,750 2,900 1,600 1,600 2,100 2,100
24 oc NA 3,350 4,350 3,350 NA 1,950 2,550 2,550
32 oc NA NA 5,200 4,000 NA NA 3,250 3,250
48 oc NA NA 7,300 5,600 NA NA 4,750 4,750
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
PANEL AXIAL COMPRESSION, F
c
24/0 2,850 4,300 4,300 2,850 2,500 3,750 3,750 2,500
24/16 3,250 4,900 4,900 3,250 2,500 3,750 3,750 2,500
32/16 3,550 5,350 5,350 3,550 3,100 4,650 4,650 3,100
40/20 4,200 6,300 6,300 4,200 4,000 6,000 6,000 4,000
48/24 NA 7,500 7,500 5,000 NA 7,200 7,200 4,300
16 oc 4,000 6,000 6,000 4,000 3,600 5,400 5,400 3,600
20 oc 4,200 6,300 6,300 4,200 4,000 6,000 6,000 4,000
24 oc NA 7,500 7,500 5,000 NA 7,200 7,200 4,300
32 oc NA NA 9,450 6,300 NA NA 9,300 6,200
48 oc NA NA 12,150 8,100 NA NA 10,800 6,750
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0

Shaded cells are atypical APA panel constructions, as shown in Table 13.
TABLE 8 (Continued)
RATED PANELS DESIGN CAPACITIES
Span
Rating
Plywood
OSB
Plywood
OSB 3-ply 4-ply 5-ply 3-ply 4-ply 5-ply
PANEL AXIAL STIFFNESS, EA (lbf/ft of panel width)
24/0 3,350,000 3,350,000 3,350,000 3,350,000 2,900,000 2,900,000 2,900,000 2,500,000
(a)
24/16 3,800,000 3,800,000 3,800,000 3,800,000 2,900,000 2,900,000 2,900,000 2,700,000
(a)
32/16 4,150,000 4,150,000 4,150,000 4,150,000 3,600,000 3,600,000 3,600,000 2,700,000
40/20 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,000,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 2,900,000
(b)
48/24 NA 5,850,000 5,850,000 5,850,000 NA 5,000,000 5,000,000 3,300,000
(b)
16 oc 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,200,000 4,200,000 4,200,000 2,700,000
20 oc 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,000,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 4,500,000 2,900,000
(b)
24 oc NA 5,850,000 5,850,000 5,850,000 NA 5,000,000 5,000,000 3,300,000
(b)
32 oc NA NA 7,500,000 7,500,000 NA NA 7,300,000 4,200,000
48 oc NA NA 8,200,000 8,200,000 NA NA 7,300,000 4,600,000
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
PANEL SHEAR IN THE PLANE, F
s
(Ib/Q) (lbf/ft of panel width)
24/0 155 155 170 130 275 375 130 130
24/16 180 180 195 150 315 435 150 150
32/16 200 200 215 165 345 480 165 165
40/20 245 245 265 205 430 595 205 205
48/24 NA 300 325 250 NA 725 250 250
16 oc 245 245 265 205 430 595 205 205
20 oc 245 245 265 205 430 595 205 205
24 oc NA 300 325 250 NA 725 250 250
32 oc NA NA 390 300 NA NA 300 300
48 oc NA NA 500 385 NA NA 385 385
1.4 1.4 1.4 1.0 1.4 1.4 1.0 1.0
PANEL RIGIDITY THROUGH THE THICKNESS, G
v
t
v
(lbf/in. of panel depth)
24/0 25,000 32,500 37,500 77,500 25,000 32,500 37,500 77,500
24/16 27,000 35,000 40,500 83,500 27,000 35,000 40,500 83,500
32/16 27,000 35,000 40,500 83,500 27,000 35,000 40,500 83,500
40/20 28,500 37,000 43,000 88,500 28,500 37,000 43,000 88,500
48/24 NA 40,500 46,500 96,000 NA 40,500 46,500 96,000
16 oc 27,000 35,000 40,500 83,500 27,000 35,000 40,500 83,500
20 oc 28,000 36,500 42,000 87,000 28,000 36,500 42,000 87,000
24 oc NA 39,000 45,000 93,000 NA 39,000 45,000 93,000
32 oc NA NA 54,000 110,000 NA NA 54,000 110,000
48 oc NA NA 76,000 155,000 NA NA 76,000 155,000
1.3 1.3 1.1 1.0 1.3 1.3 1.1 1.0
PANEL SHEAR THROUGH THE THICKNESS, F
v
t
v
(lbf/in. of shear-resisting panel length)
24/0 53 69 80 155 53 69 80 155
24/16 57 74 86 165 57 74 86 165
32/16 62 81 93 180 62 81 93 180
40/20 68 88 100 195 68 88 100 195
48/24 NA 98 115 220 NA 98 115 220
16 oc 58 75 87 170 58 75 87 170
20 oc 67 87 100 195 67 87 100 195
24 oc NA 96 110 215 NA 96 110 215
32 oc NA NA 120 230 NA NA 120 230
48 oc NA NA 160 305 NA NA 160 305
1.3 1.3 1.1 1.0 1.3 1.3 1.1 1.0

Shaded cells are atypical APA panel constructions as shown in Table 13.
(a) The value shall be permitted to be increased to 2,900,000 lbf/ft for the calculation of the bending stiffness (EI
joist
) of prefabricated wood
I-joists.
(b) The value shall be permitted to be increased to 4,500,000 lbf/ft for the calculation of the composite floor bending stiffness (EI
composite
) of
prefabricated wood I-joists.
TABLE 9
SANDED GROUP 1
(a)
PLYWOOD DESIGN CAPACITIES
Performance
Category
A-A, A-C Marine Other A-A, A-C Marine Other
2
/ft of panel width)
1/4 15,000 15,000 15,000 700 980 700
11/32 34,000 34,000 34,000 1,750 2,450 1,750
3/8 49,000 49,000 49,000 2,750 3,850 2,750
15/32 120,000 120,000 120,000 11,000 15,500 11,000
1/2 140,000 140,000 140,000 15,500 21,500 15,500
19/32 205,000 205,000 205,000 37,500 52,500 37,500
5/8 230,000 230,000 230,000 48,500 68,000 48,500
23/32 320,000 320,000 320,000 90,500 125,000 90,500
3/4 355,000 355,000 355,000 115,000 160,000 115,000
7/8 500,000 500,000 500,000 185,000 260,000 185,000
1 760,000 760,000 760,000 330,000 460,000 330,000
1-1/8 985,000 985,000 985,000 490,000 685,000 490,000
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.4 1.0 1.4
b
1/4 115 105 95 17 20 14
11/32 185 170 155 31 36 26
3/8 245 225 205 44 52 37
15/32 425 390 355 130 150 110
1/2 470 430 390 175 205 145
19/32 625 570 520 270 315 225
5/8 670 615 560 325 380 270
23/32 775 710 645 455 530 380
3/4 815 750 680 565 660 470
7/8 1,000 935 850 780 910 650
1 1,300 1,200 1,100 1,150 1,350 975
1-1/8 1,600 1,500 1,350 1,500 1,750 1,250
1.0 1.0 1.1 1.4 1.0 1.4
t
1/4 1,800 1,650 1,650 660 990 550
11/32 1,800 1,650 1,650 840 1,250 700
3/8 2,350 2,150 2,150 1,250 1,900 1,050
15/32 3,500 3,200 3,200 2,400 3,600 2,000
1/2 3,500 3,200 3,200 2,450 3,700 2,050
19/32 4,400 4,000 4,000 2,750 4,150 2,300
5/8 4,500 4,100 4,100 3,000 4,500 2,500
23/32 5,100 4,650 4,650 3,400 5,150 2,850
3/4 5,250 4,750 4,750 4,150 6,200 3,450
7/8 5,350 4,850 4,850 5,200 7,850 4,350
1 6,750 6,150 6,150 6,250 9,350 5,200
1-1/8 7,000 6,350 6,350 6,300 9,450 5,250
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.7 1.0 1.8
(a) See Table 10 for multipliers for other species Groups
TABLE 9 (Continued)
SANDED GROUP 1
(a)
Performance
Category
PANEL AXIAL COMPRESSION F
c
1/4 1,710 1,550 1,550 605 990 550
11/32 1,710 1,550 1,550 715 1,150 650
3/8 2,200 2,000 2,000 1,050 1,700 950
15/32 3,300 3,000 3,000 2,050 3,350 1,850
1/2 3,300 3,000 3,000 2,100 3,400 1,900
19/32 4,150 3,750 3,750 2,350 3,850 2,150
5/8 4,200 3,800 3,800 2,600 4,250 2,350
23/32 4,800 4,350 4,350 2,900 4,750 2,650
3/4 4,900 4,450 4,450 3,500 5,750 3,200
7/8 5,000 4,550 4,550 4,500 7,400 4,100
1 6,350 5,750 5,750 5,350 8,750 4,850
1-1/8 6,550 5,950 5,950 5,400 8,800 4,900
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.8 1.0 1.8
1/4 1,800,000 1,800,000 1,800,000 625,000 1,150,000 625,000
11/32 1,800,000 1,800,000 1,800,000 750,000 1,350,000 750,000
3/8 2,350,000 2,350,000 2,350,000 1,150,000 2,050,000 1,150,000
15/32 3,500,000 3,500,000 3,500,000 2,150,000 3,850,000 2,150,000
1/2 3,500,000 3,500,000 3,500,000 2,250,000 4,050,000 2,250,000
19/32 4,350,000 4,350,000 4,350,000 2,500,000 4,500,000 2,500,000
5/8 4,450,000 4,450,000 4,450,000 2,750,000 4,950,000 2,750,000
23/32 5,100,000 5,100,000 5,100,000 3,150,000 5,650,000 3,150,000
3/4 5,200,000 5,200,000 5,200,000 3,750,000 6,750,000 3,750,000
7/8 5,300,000 5,300,000 5,300,000 4,750,000 8,550,000 4,750,000
1 6,700,000 6,700,000 6,700,000 5,700,000 10,500,000 5,700,000
1-1/8 6,950,000 6,950,000 6,950,000 5,700,000 10,500,000 5,700,000
1.0 1.0 1.0 1.8 1.0 1.8
s
1/4 105 135 105 105 135 105
11/32 145 190 145 145 190 145
3/8 165 215 165 165 215 165
15/32 220 285 220 220 285 220
1/2 235 305 235 235 305 235
19/32 290 375 290 290 375 290
5/8 310 405 310 310 405 310
23/32 350 455 350 350 455 350
3/4 360 470 360 360 470 360
7/8 425 555 425 425 555 425
1 470 610 470 470 610 470
1-1/8 525 685 525 525 685 525
1.3 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.0 1.4
(a) See Table 10 for multipliers for other species Groups
4.5.5. Panel size
Strength capacity in bending and tension are appropriate for panels 24 inches or greater in width. For panels less than
24 inches in width used in applications where failure could endanger human life, the following adjustment shall be made
to capacity (x is the width, or dimension perpendicular to the applied stress, in inches):
When x is 24 inches or greater, then C
s
= 1.00 [3]
When x is a minimum of 8 inches to a maximum of 24 inches, then C
s
= 0.25 + 0.0313x [4]
When x is less than or equal to 8 inches, then C
s
= 0.50 [5]
Single strips less than 8 inches wide used in stressed applications shall be chosen such that they are relatively free of
surface defects.
4.5.6. Panel Edge Support
For roof sheathing applications, additional panel edge support is recommended when panel widths are less than 24 inches.
Specific recommendations are in APA Technical Note: Panel Edge Support for Narrow-Width Roof Sheathing, Form R275.
Note that panel edge support may be required or recommended in applications subject to walking loads, such as floor
or roof sheathing. See APA Engineered Wood Construction Guide, Form E30, for more information.
TABLE 9 (Continued)
SANDED GROUP 1
(a)
Performance
Category
PANEL RIGIDITY THROUGH THE THICKNESS G
v
t
v
1/4 24,000 31,000 24,000 24,000 31,000 24,000
11/32 25,500 33,000 25,500 25,500 33,000 25,500
3/8 26,000 34,000 26,000 26,000 34,000 26,000
15/32 38,000 49,500 38,000 38,000 49,500 38,000
1/2 38,500 50,000 38,500 38,500 50,000 38,500
19/32 49,000 63,500 49,000 49,000 63,500 49,000
5/8 49,500 64,500 49,500 49,500 64,500 49,500
23/32 50,500 65,500 50,500 50,500 65,500 50,500
3/4 51,000 66,500 51,000 51,000 66,500 51,000
7/8 52,500 68,500 52,500 52,500 68,500 52,500
1 73,500 95,500 73,500 73,500 95,500 73,500
1-1/8 75,000 97,500 75,000 75,000 97,500 75,000
1.3 1.0 1.3 1.3 1.0 1.3
v
t
v
1/4 51 66 51 51 66 51
11/32 54 70 54 54 70 54
3/8 55 72 55 55 72 55
15/32 80 105 80 80 105 80
1/2 81 105 81 81 105 81
19/32 105 135 105 105 135 105
5/8 105 135 105 105 135 105
23/32 105 135 105 105 135 105
3/4 110 145 110 110 145 110
7/8 110 145 110 110 145 110
1 155 200 155 155 200 155
1-1/8 160 210 160 160 210 160
1.3 1.0 1.3 1.3 1.0 1.3
(a) See Table 10 for multipliers for other species Groups.
4.6. Section properties
Where required, geometric cross-sectional
properties may be calculated by assum-
ing a uniform rectangular cross section
in conjunction with typical Performance
Categories for a given span rating, Table 11.
Computed rectangular (geometric) proper-
ties on a per-foot-of-panel-width basis are
provided in Table 12.
Similarly, where design stress is required,
design capacity may be divided by the
applicable rectangular section property in
Table 12.
4.7. Uniform load computations
Computation of uniform-load capacity of
wood structural panels shall be as outlined
in this section for such applications as roofs,
floors and walls. The design capacities are
subject to adjustment as specified earlier in
this document.
Three basic span conditions are presented
for computing uniform-load capacities
of wood structural panels. For normal
framing practice and a standard panel
size (4 x 8 ft), APA has used the following
assumptions in computing recommenda-
tions for load-span tables. When the panel
strength axis is across (perpendicular to)
the supports, the three-span condition is
assumed for support spacing up to and
including 32 inches. The two-span condi-
tion is assumed for support spacing greater
than 32 inches.
When the panel strength axis is placed parallel to the supports, the three-span condition is assumed for support spacing
up to and including 16 inches, the two-span condition is assumed when the support spacing is greater than 16 inches
up to 24 inches, and a single span is assumed for spans greater than 24 inches.
To include the effects of support width in deflection and shear strength calculations, two-inch-nominal lumber framing
is assumed for support spacings less than 48 inches. Four-inch-nominal lumber framing is assumed for support spacing
of 48 inches or greater.
The equations presented in this section are standard beam formulas altered to accept the mixed units noted. These
formulas are provided for computing uniform loads on wood structural panels over conventional lumber framing. Because
it is assumed that no blocking is used, the formulas are for one-way beam action, rather than two-way plate action.
The resulting loads are assumed to be applied to full-sized panels in standard sheathing-type applications. Loads are for
the panels only, and in no way account for the design of the framing supports. Further consideration shall be given to
concentrated loads, in compliance with local building codes and with maximum span recommendations of APA The
Engineered Wood Association.
TABLE 10
MULTIPLIERS FOR SANDED GROUP 2, 3 AND 4 PLYWOOD DESIGN
CAPACITIES
Species
Group A-A, A-C Marine Other
2
/ft of panel width)
2
3
4
0.83
0.67
0.56
NA
NA
NA
0.83
0.67
0.56
b
2
3
4
0.70
0.70
0.67
NA
NA
NA
0.73
0.73
0.67
t
2
3
4
0.70
0.70
0.67
NA
NA
NA
0.73
0.73
0.67
PANEL AXIAL COMPRESSION, F
c
2
3
4
0.73
0.65
0.61
NA
NA
NA
0.71
0.64
0.62
2
3
4
0.83
0.67
0.56
NA
NA
NA
0.83
0.67
0.56
s
2
3
4
1.00
1.00
1.00
NA
NA
NA
1.00
1.00
1.00
PANEL RIGIDITY THROUGH THE THICKNESS, G
v
t
v

2
3
4
0.83
0.67
0.56
NA
NA
NA
0.83
0.67
0.56
v
t
v

2
3
4
0.74
0.74
0.68
NA
NA
NA
0.74
0.74
0.68
TABLE 11
PERFORMANCE CATEGORY AND NOMINAL THICKNESS (in.) BY SPAN RATING
The predominant Performance Category for each span rating is highlighted in bold type.)
Span
Rating
Performance Category
3/8 7/16 15/32 1/2 19/32 5/8 23/32 3/4 7/8 1 1-1/8
APA Rated Sheathing
24/0 .375 .437 .469 .500
24/16 .437 .469 .500
32/16 .469 .500 .594 .625
40/20 .594 .625 .719 .750
48/24 .719 .750 .875
APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor
16 oc .594 .625
20 oc .594 .625
24 oc .719 .750
32 oc .875 1.000
48 oc 1.125
TABLE 12
PANEL SECTION PROPERTIES
(a)
Performance
Category
Approximate
Weight
(b)
(psf)
Nominal
Thickness
t
(in.)
Area
A
(in.
2
/ft)
Moment of
Inertia
I
(in.
4
/ft)
Section
Modulus
S
(in.
3
/ft)
Statical
Moment
Q
(in.
3
/ft)
Shear
Constant
Ib/Q
(in.
2
/ft) Plywood OSB
3/8 1.1 1.2 .375 4.500 .053 .281 .211 3.000
7/16 1.3 1.4 .437 5.250 .084 .383 .287 3.500
15/32 1.4 1.5 .469 5.625 .103 .440 .330 3.750
1/2 1.5 1.7 .500 6.000 .125 .500 .375 4.000
19/32 1.8 2.0 .594 7.125 .209 .705 .529 4.750
5/8 1.9 2.1 .625 7.500 .244 .781 .586 5.000
23/32 2.2 2.4 .719 8.625 .371 1.033 .775 5.750
3/4 2.3 2.5 .750 9.000 .422 1.125 .844 6.000
7/8 2.6 2.9 .875 10.500 .670 1.531 1.148 7.000
1 3.0 3.3 1.000 12.000 1.000 2.000 1.500 8.000
1-1/8 3.3 3.6 1.125 13.500 1.424 2.531 1.898 9.000
See Section 6 for conversion factors.
(a) Properties based on rectangular cross section of 1-ft width.
(b) Approximate weight for calculating actual dead loads of the panel.
4.7.1. Uniform loads based on bending strength
The following formulas shall be used for computing loads based on design bending strength capacity (F
b
S).
For a single span:
w
b
=
96 F
b
S
[6]
1
2
For a two-span condition:
w
b
=
96 F
b
S
[7]
1
2
For a three-span condition:
w
b
=
120 F
b
S
[8]
1
2
Where:
w
b
= uniform load based on bending strength (psf)
F
b
S = design bending strength capacity (lbf-in./ft)
1
= span (in., center-to-center of supports)
4.7.2. Uniform loads based on shear strength
The following formulas shall be used for computing loads based on design shear strength capacity (F
s
[Ib/Q]).
For a single span:
w
s
=
24 F
s
(Ib/Q)
[9]
2
w
s
=
19.2 F
s
(Ib/Q)
[10]
2
w
s
=
20 F
s
(Ib/Q)
[11]
2
Where:
w
s
= uniform load based on shear strength (psf)
F
s
(Ib/Q) = design shear strength capacity (lbf/ft)
2
= clear span (in., center-to-center of supports minus support width)
4.7.3. Uniform loads based on deflection requirements
The following formulas shall be used for computing deflection under uniform load, or allowable loads based on deflection
requirements.
For a single span:
=
w
3
4
[12]
921.6 EI
=
w
3
4
[13]
2220 EI
=
w
3
4
[14]
1743 EI
Where:
= deflection (in.)
w = uniform load (psf)
EI = design bending stiffness capacity (lbf-in.
2
/ft)
3
= clear span + SW (in.)
SW = support-width factor, equal to 0.25 inch for two-inch-nominal lumber framing and 0.625 inch for four-
inch-nominal lumber framing.
4.7.4. Uniform load
For uniform load based on a deflection requirement, compute bending deflection with a uniform load (w) equal to one
psf. The allowable uniform load based on the allowable deflection is then computed as:
w
d
=

all.
[15]
Where:
w
d
= uniform load based on deflection (psf)
all.
= allowable deflection (in.)
4.8. Design examples showing use of capacity tables
Note: In these examples, panel type and construction are selected for illustrative purposes. Normally specification is by grade and
span rating without regard to panel type, and calculations should assume the lowest capacities applicable to available types and
constructions as given in Table 13 for the specified span rating.
TABLE 13
TYPICAL APA PANEL CONSTRUCTIONS
(a)
Span Rating
Plywood
OSB 3-ply 4-ply 5-ply
(b)
APA Rated Sheathing
24/0 X X
24/16 X
32/16 X X X X
40/20 X X X X
48/24 X X X
APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor
16 oc
20 oc X X X
24 oc X X X
32 oc X X
48 oc X X
(a) Constructions listed may not be available in every area. Check with suppliers
concerning availability.
(b) Applies to plywood with 5 or more layers.
4.8.1. Example 1 Conventional roof
A 4-ply plywood panel trademarked APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc with tongue-and-groove edges was inadvertently installed
over 4-in.-nominal roof supports 48 in. on center. The long dimension (strength axis) of the panel was placed perpendicular to
supports. The local building code requires that the panel support a 25-psf snow load.
Bending Strength
From Table 8, a 4-ply plywood Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc panel with stress applied parallel to the strength axis (long panel
dimension perpendicular to supports) has a bending strength capacity (F
b
S) of 705 lbf-in./ft. This capacity is adjusted by a
duration-of-load factor (C
D
) of 1.15 (see 4.5.1). This duration-of-load factor is normally associated with snow loads for roof
structures. From 4.7, Eq. 7, a two-span condition is assumed.
w
b
=
96 F
b
S
=
96 (705 x 1.15)
= 34 psf
1
2
48
2
Shear Strength in the Plane
From Table 8, a 4-ply plywood Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc panel with stress applied parallel to the strength axis has
shear strength in the plane (F
s
[Ib/Q]) of 300 lbf/ft. This capacity is adjusted by a duration-of-load factor (C
D
) of 1.15
(see 4.5.1). From 4.7, Eq. 10,
w
s
=
19.2 F
s
(Ib/Q)
=
19.2 (300 x 1.15)
= 149 psf
2
(48 3.5)
Bending Stiffness
From Table 8, a Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc panel with stress applied parallel to the strength axis has a dry stiffness
capacity (EI) of 330,000 lbf-in.
2
/ft. The deflection limit for live load is /240. From 4.7, Eq. 13,
=
w
3
4
=
1.0 (48 3.5 + 0.625)
4
= 5.66 x 10
-3
in.
2220 EI 2220 x 330000
From Eq, 15,
w
d
=

all.
=
48/240
= 35 psf
5.66 x 10
-3
Bending strength controls (provides the lowest capacity) for this application. The bending strength capacity of 34 psf
represents total load, from which dead load is subtracted to arrive at live load capacity. The bending stiffness capacity
of 35 psf represents live load only. Here, if dead load (panel weight plus roofing) is no more than 9 psf, the 25 psf snow
load capacity is achieved. The tongue-and-groove edges provide required edge supports.
4.8.2. Example 2 Panelized roof
An oriented strand board (OSB) panel trademarked as APA Structural I Rated Sheathing 32/16 is to be used in a panelized
roof system over 2-in.-nominal framing members 24 in. on center. The long panel dimension (strength axis) of the panel
will be placed parallel to supports.
Bending Strength
From Table 8, an OSB Rated Sheathing 32/16 panel with stress applied perpendicular to strength axis (long panel
dimension parallel to supports) has a bending strength capacity (F
b
S) equal to 165 lbf-in./ft. This capacity is adjusted
by a multiplier of 1.5 for OSB Structural I, and by a duration-of-load factor (C
D
) of 1.15 (see 4.5.1.). From 4.7, Eq. 7, a
two-span condition is assumed.
w
b
=
96 F
b
S
=
96 (165 x 1.5 x 1.15)
= 47 psf
1
2
24
2
From Table 8, an OSB Rated Sheathing 32/16 panel with stress applied perpendicular to strength axis has shear strength
in the plane (F
s
[Ib/Q]) of 165 lbf/ft. This capacity is adjusted by a multiplier of 1.0 for OSB Structural I, and by a duration-
of-load factor (C
D
) of 1.15 (see 4.5.1.). From 4.7, Eq. 10,
w
s
=
19.2 F
s
(Ib/Q)
=
19.2 (165 x 1.0 x 1.15)
= 162 psf
2
(24 1.5)
Bending Stiffness
From Table 8, an OSB Rated Sheathing 32/16 panel with stress applied perpendicular to strength axis has a dry stiffness
capacity (EI) of 25,000 lbf-in.
2
/ft. This capacity is adjusted by a multiplier of 1.6 for OSB Structural I. The deflection
limit for live load is /240. From 4.7, Eq. 13,
=
w
3
4
=
1.0 (24 1.5 + 0.25)
4
= 3.02 x 10
-3
in.
2220 EI 2220 x (25000 x 1.6)
From Eq. 15,
w
d
=

all.
=
24/240
= 33 psf
3.02 x 10
-3
4.8.3. Example 3 Floor
A 5-ply plywood panel trademarked as APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc is to be used in a floor system over supports 24
inches on center. The panels will be placed with the long panel dimension (strength axis) perpendicular to supports.
Supports are 2-in.-nominal framing members. The capacity of the panel will be computed based on bending strength,
shear strength in the plane and bending stiffness.
Bending Strength
From Table 8, a 5-ply plywood Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc panel with stress applied parallel to the strength axis (long
panel dimension perpendicular to supports) has a bending strength capacity (F
b
S) of 770 lbf-in./ft. From 4.7, Eq. 8, a
three-span condition is assumed.
w
b
=
120 F
b
S
=
120 x 770
= 160 psf
1
2
24
2
From Table 8, a 5-ply plywood Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc panel with stress applied parallel to the strength axis has shear
strength in the plane (F
s
[Ib/Q]) equal to 325 lbf/ft. From 4.7, Eq. 11,
w
s
=
20 F
s
(Ib/Q)
=
20 x 325
= 289 psf
2
(24 1.5)
Bending Stiffness
From Table 8, a 5-ply plywood Rated Sturd-I-Floor 24 oc panel with stress applied parallel to the strength axis has a dry
stiffness capacity (EI) of 330,000 lbf-in.
2
/ft. The deflection limit for live load is /360. From 4.7, Eq. 14,
=
w
3
4
=
1.0 (24 1.5 + 0.25)
4
= 4.66 x 10
-4
in.
1743 EI 1743 x 330000
From Eq. 15,
w
d
=
all.
=
24/360
= 143 psf
4.66 x 10
-4
While the above calculations would indicate that this Sturd-I-Floor construction has a live load capacity of 143 psf
(limited by bending stiffness), it is important to note that some structural panel applications are not controlled by uniform
load. Residential floors, commonly designed for 40-psf live load, are a good example. The calculated allowable load is
greatly in excess of the typical design load. This excess does not mean that floor spans for Sturd-I-Floor can be increased,
but only that there is considerable reserve strength and stiffness for uniform loads. Recommended maximum spans
for wood structural panel floors are based on deflection under concentrated loads, how the floor feels to passing foot
traffic, and other subjective factors which relate to user acceptance. Always check the maximum floor and roof spans
for wood structural panels before making a final selection for these applications.
5. REFERENCES
National Design Specification for Wood Construction (NDS), American Wood Council, Leesburg, VA.
Fire-Retardant-Treated (FRT) Plywood, APA Technical Note, K320, APA The Engineered Wood Association, Tacoma, WA.
Nailhead Pull-Through Strength of Wood Structural Panels, APA Technical Topic, TT-070, APA The Engineered Wood
Association, Tacoma, WA.
Panel Edge Support for Narrow-Width Roof Sheathing, APA Technical Note, R275, APA The Engineered Wood Association,
Tacoma, WA.
Performance Standards and Qualification Policy for Wood Structural Panels, PRP-108, APA The Engineered Wood Association,
Tacoma, WA.
Recommended Design Values for Nail Withdrawal from APA Plywood and OSB, APA Technical Topic TT-039, APA The
Engineered Wood Association, Tacoma, WA.
Screw Withdrawal from the Face of APA Trademarked Structural Panels, APA Technical Topic TT-051, APA The Engineered
Wood Association, Tacoma, WA.
Standard Test Methods for Structural Panels in Flexure, ASTM D3043, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Method for Evaluating Dowel-Bearing Strength of Wood and Wood-Based Products, ASTM D5764, ASTM
International, West Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Evaluating Properties of Wood-Based Fiber and Particle Material, ASTM D1037, ASTM International,
West Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood, ASTM D1761, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Small Clear Specimens of Timber, ASTM D143, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Structural Panels in Planar Shear (Rolling Shear), ASTM D2718, ASTM International, West
Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Structural Panels in Shear Through-the-Thickness, ASTM D2719, ASTM International, West
Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Structural Panels in Tension, ASTM D3500, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.
Standard Test Methods for Wood-Based Structural Panels in Compression, ASTM D3501, ASTM International, West
Conshohocken, PA.
Use Category System: User Specification for Treated Wood, AWPA Standard U1, American Wood Protection Association,
Birmingham, AL.
Use Category System: Processing and Treatment Standard, AWPA Standard T1, American Wood Protection Association,
Birmingham, AL
Construction Sheathing, CAN/ CSA-O325.0, Canadian Standards Association, Mississauga, ON, Canada.
Relation of Strength of Wood to Duration of Load, Report FPL R-1916, USDA Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, WI.
Performance Standard for Wood-Based Wood Structural Panels, Voluntary Product Standard PS 2, U.S. Department of
Commerce, Washington, DC.
Structural Plywood, Voluntary Product Standard PS 1, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC.
6. CONVERSION FACTORS
Quantity Multiply By To Obtain
Pressure/Stress
psi 6.895 kPa
psi 6,895 N/m
2
Length in. 25.40 mm
Panel Bending Stiffness Capacity (EI) lbf-in.
2
/ft of panel width 9.415 N-m
2
/m
Panel Bending Strength Capacity (F
b
S) lbf-in./ft of panel width 0.3707 N-m/m
Panel Axial Tension Capacity (F
t
A) lbf/ft of panel width 14.59 N/m
Panel Axial Compression (F
c
A) lbf/ft of panel width 14.59 N/m
Panel Axial Stiffness Capacity (EA) lbf/ft of panel width 14.59 N/m
Panel Shear in the Plane Capacity F
s
(lb/Q) lbf/ft of panel depth 14.59 N/m
Panel Rigidity Through the Thickness (G
v
T
v
) lbf/in. of panel length 1.216 N/m
Approximate Weight of Panel psf 4.88 kg/m
2
Panel Area (A) in.
2
/ft of panel width 2.117 10
3
mm
2
/m
Panel Section Modulus (S) in.
3
3
mm
3
/m
Panel Moment of Inertia (I) in.
4
6
mm
4
/m
Temperature F tC = (tF 32)/1.8 C
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
About APA The Engineered Wood Association
APA The Engineered Wood Association is a nonprofit trade association of
and for structural wood panel, glulam timber, wood I-joist, structural
composite lumber, and other engineered wood product manufacturers.
Based in Tacoma, Washington, APA represents approximately 150 mills
throughout North America, ranging from small, independently owned and
operated companies to large integrated corporations.
Always insist on engineered wood products bearing the mark of quality
the APA or APA EWS trademark. Your APA engineered wood purchase is
not only your highest possible assurance of product quality, but an invest-
ment in the many trade services that APA provides on your behalf. The
Associations trademark appears only on products manufactured by mem-
ber mills and is the manufacturers assurance that the product conforms
to the standard shown on the trademark.
For panels, that standard may be the Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-09 for Structural Plywood, Voluntary
Product Standard PS 2-10, Performance Standards for Wood Structural Panels or APA PRP-108 Performance
Standards and Qualification Policy for Structural-Use Panels. Panel quality of all APA trademarked products
is subject to verification through APA audit.
APAs services go far beyond quality testing and inspection. Research and promotion programs play important
roles in developing and improving construction systems using wood structural panels, glulam, I-joists, and
structural composite lumber, and in helping users and specifiers to better understand and apply engineered
wood products. For more information, please see the back cover.
www.apawood.org
We have field representatives in many major U.S. cities and in Canada
who can help answer questions involving APA trademarked products.
For additional assistance in specifying engineered wood products, contact us:
APA HEADQUARTERS
7011 So. 19th St.
Tacoma, Washington 98466
(253) 565-6600
Fax: (253) 565-7265

PRODUCT SUPPORT HELP DESK
(253) 620-7400
E-mail Address: [email protected]

DI SCLAI MER
The information contained herein is based on APA The Engineered Wood Associations continu-
ing programs of laboratory testing, product research and comprehensive field experience. Neither
APA, nor its members make any warranty, expressed or implied, or assume any legal liability or
responsibility for the use, application of, and/or reference to opinions, findings, conclusions or
recommendations included in this publication. Consult your local jurisdiction or design professional
to assure compliance with code, construction and performance requirements. Because APA has no
control over quality of workmanship or the conditions under which engineered wood products are
used, it cannot accept responsibility for product performance or designs as actually constructed.
Form No. D510C/Revised May 2012/0300

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