FreeOSB Board: Sizes, Thicknesses and Uses
OSB (oriented strand board) is made of large wood strands glued in layers. It is strong and cheap, and its pattern is used on purpose in rustic and industrial furniture. Sheets are usually 2440 × 1220 or 2500 × 1250 mm.
OSB sold for furniture
| Board | Thicknesses | Common sheet sizes |
|---|---|---|
| OSB/3 (wood grain) | 9 mm, 11.11 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm, 18.26 mm, 22 mm | 2440 × 1220, 2500 × 1250, 4×8 ft |
OSB thicknesses
OSB is sold in 9 mm (3/8"), 11.11 mm (7/16"), 12 mm (1/2"), 15 mm (9/16"), 18 mm (11/16"), 18.26 mm (3/4"), 22 mm (7/8"). For furniture carcasses and doors, 16–19 mm is standard; thin sheets are for backs and drawer bottoms.
OSB sheet sizes
- 2440 × 1220 mm (96 1/16" × 48 1/16")
- 2500 × 1250 mm (98 7/16" × 49 3/16")
- 4×8 ft (2438 × 1219 mm)
Weight of a 2440 × 1220 mm sheet
At a typical density of 600–680 kg/m³:
| Thickness | Weight per sheet |
|---|---|
| 9 mm | 16–18 kg (35–40 lb) |
| 11.11 mm | 20–22 kg (44–49 lb) |
| 12 mm | 21–24 kg (46–53 lb) |
| 15 mm | 27–30 kg (60–66 lb) |
| 18 mm | 32–36 kg (71–79 lb) |
| 18.26 mm | 33–37 kg (73–82 lb) |
| 22 mm | 39–45 kg (86–99 lb) |
Advantages
- Strong and cheap
- Distinctive look
- OSB/3 tolerates humidity
Drawbacks
- Rough surface
- Thickness is less even than plywood
- Edges crumble without sealing
What it is used for
- Workshop benches and shelving
- Garage storage
- Rustic and industrial furniture
Tips for working with OSB
- Sand lightly and finish with a clear coat for indoor furniture.
Frequently asked questions
Is OSB good for shelves?
Yes for garages and workshops: 18 mm OSB is strong enough for spans up to about 800 mm.
