[JaLu]

I have had a 24 x 40' "pole barn" built. Actually a Wick building. But about the same as Astro or Cleary or Morton. It's un-insulated -- just a "tin skin" outside of a few 2x6's that are between the "poles"... which are actually three 2x6's joined together.

I want to put a plywood (or OSB) "inside wall" between the poles (which are on 8 foot centers) as a protector from bumping (and denting) the metal as I work and park equipment and such.

I MAY go up a full 48" ... but might rip the 4x8' sheets to 39 or 40".

THE QUESTION: whether to use OSB or plywood -- which is the better deal?

I know there are different thicknesses -- like up to 3/4 or 7/8 or even a full inch (?).

It seems like OSB is a little cheaper -- is it as strong as ply? As impact resistant ?

Looks don't matter -- knot holes and such don't matter -- it better be dry inside, so there's no need for any exterior grade.

Any opinions? Thanks. J

[Flying Blue Eagle]

Jalu- Yes osb is cheaper then plywood. It is preety strong as plywood , but which ever you use , unless you put down a curb to be a stopping spot, pulling up and hiting the plywood or the osb , you will bust , which ever one you use. IF it was me I'd go with the osb . Unless you keep heat inside all the time ,( NO MATTER YOU WILL STILL HAVE A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF MOSTUIRE< INSIDE::::::: THE SHINNY SIDE <ON OSB FACES THE WEATHER::: GOOD LUCK . F > B. E.

[glavine]

I preferr osb over plywood, I've found it better to work with, plywood that I've used always seemed to have a bow in it, which made it harder to nail up, osb stays farily straight
It is also cheaper, most homes are built with osb

[JaLu]

Glavine, Thanks much. Is OSB equally "impact resistant" ? I'm sure not PLANNING to, but if a kid smacked each with a ball-bat, or threw a brick, would the OSB -- having the "smaller pieces of wood" be more likely to get a hole? Or is the glue and the "oriented strand" stuff make it even tougher than ply?

Thanks. JaLu

[KBC]

Plywood is just oposing layers of laminated wood.

OSB as you can see, is "oriented" chipboard,pressed and a lot more adhesives involved.

Both have advantages, and disadvantages,but, I would agree with FBE and glavine, OSB is the best for what your interested in doing.

If your concerned with the possible damage due to a machine/ball bat,, etc, add studding throughout the area where your going to install this paneling, it will keep the board stiffer and more resistant to abuse.

Ken

[JaLu]

Makes sense. Thanks.