TruFlor OSB

The Start of a Great Build

Installation

Norbord structural panels are to be installed according to the APA’s (The Engineered Wood Association) Construction Guide E30, the appropriate building code and/or the design professional’s specifications.

Below are some key installation points and tips

  • Space panels 1/8″ apart on the 4′ edges
  • Lightly butt the T&G together
  • Ensure the joists are aligned, uniform and square
  • Install panels with the major strength axis perpendicular to supports.
  • Install T&G panels with the APA grade stamp down.
  • Fastener Spacing – consult your local building codes for local requirements, the APA Construction GuildeE30 and/or your design professional’s specifications.
  • Gluing sub-floor panels is recommended and may be required. We recommend the use of PL 400 subfloor adhesive. At a minimum sub-floor adhesives must meet current industry test standards.If glue is use apply only enough glue to install 2 or 3 panels at a time and fully fasten the panels before continuing.
  • Provide 3/4″ expansion joints for every continuous section of panels exceeding 80 feet in length.

Installing TruFlor

One of the most common mistakes made during the installation of sub-floor structural panels is not leaving a gap along the 4′ ends of the panels by butting the panels together. Not leaving space to allow for expansion can lead to potential problems. Butting panels tightly together can cause callback issues that add cost and impact the bottom line. TruFlor panels are sized to allow for this spacing and leaving 1/8″ between panels is a requirement. Using a 10d nail as a space guide is a quick and easy way to ensure spacing. These publications by the APA The Engineered Wood Association M300R (Cut Callbacks with Proper Spacing), G440A (Brace Walls with Wood), E305 LA (Construyendo un sistema de piso solido sin chillidos) and TT-040 (Heavily Loaded Drywall Carts) provide excellent information and guidance to anyone using structural panels and should be read in addition to the installation requirements listed below.

The Following Floor Coverings May Be Installed Over TruFlor

  • Commercial and residential carpet and under pad.
  • Ceramic Tile and lightweight concrete.
  • Hardwood floors, (Solvent based adhesives are recommended when gluing parquet hardwood flooring)
  • Vinyl flooring requires a suitable underlayment.

Always follow the flooring manufacturer’s installations instructions.

These publications by the APA The Engineered Wood Association M300R (Cut Callbacks with Proper Spacing), G440A (Brace Walls with Wood), E305 LA (Construyendo un sistema de piso solido sin chillidos) and TT-040 (Heavily Loaded Drywall Carts) provide excellent information and guidance to anyone using structural panels and should be read in addition to the installation requirements listed below.

Click here for the APA web site
Download Norbord OSB Information (PDF)