Plywood vs OSB: Which Performs Better for Walls and Roofs?
By Graham Mann | Published: 12/15/2025
Compare plywood and OSB for walls and roofs: cost, moisture resistance, strength, sustainability, and which material suits different projects and climates.
Plywood vs OSB: Which Performs Better for Walls and Roofs? Choosing between plywood and OSB for walls and roofs comes down to three key factors: cost, performance, and sustainability. Here's what you need to know: - Cost: OSB is 15–30% cheaper than plywood. A sheet of OSB costs around $25–$40, while plywood ranges from $35–$60. For a 2,500 sq. ft. home, using OSB can save you about $700. - Moisture Resistance: Plywood performs better in humid or wet conditions. It swells less, dries faster, and holds its strength longer. OSB absorbs water slowly but swells more, especially at the edges, which can lead to lasting damage. - Strength: Both meet building codes, but OSB offers more uniform strength and is better for load-bearing applications. Plywood, however, resists impacts better and is easier to handle due to its lighter weight. - Sustainability: OSB uses smaller, fast-growing trees, making it a more resource-efficient choice. Plywood requires larger trees but emits fewer adhesives and ...
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