Cost, Strength, and Moisture Resistance: Plywood vs OSB Showdown
By Graham Mann | Published: 12/17/2025
Compare plywood and OSB on cost, structural strength, and moisture resistance to choose the right sheathing or subfloor for your climate and budget.
Cost, Strength, and Moisture Resistance: Plywood vs OSB Showdown Plywood and OSB (Oriented Strand Board) are the top choices for structural panels in construction, but deciding between them depends on cost, strength, and moisture performance. Here's the key takeaway: - Cost: OSB is 15–30% cheaper than plywood. For a 2,400-square-foot home, this could save around $700. - Strength: OSB has higher shear strength, making it better for structural uses. Plywood is stiffer, ideal for subflooring and roofing. - Moisture Resistance: Plywood dries faster and resists swelling better, outperforming OSB in humid or wet conditions. Quick Comparison | Feature | Plywood | OSB | |---| --- |---| | Cost | More expensive ($21.50/sheet) | Cheaper ($16.50/sheet) | | Shear Strength | Lower (600–1,000 psi) | Higher (1,000–1,500 psi) | | Stiffness | Higher (better for floors/roofs) | Lower (requires closer joist spacing) | | Moisture Handling | Dries faster, minimal swelling | Swells significantly, retains wat...
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