Roof sheathing is an essential component of any roofing system, providing a stable and secure base for roofing materials to be installed on top. In Florida, where the weather can be unpredictable and severe, ensuring that the roof sheathing is thick enough to withstand strong winds and heavy rain is crucial.
Modern Standards
Roof sheathing thickness in Florida can vary depending on the specific building code requirements, the type of roofing material, and the spacing of the rafters or trusses. In general, the minimum recommended thickness for roof sheathing in Florida is 15/32 inches for plywood and 7/16 inches for oriented strand board (OSB).
Plywood is a common type of roof sheathing material used in Florida because it has good strength and durability. Plywood roof sheathing is typically available in thicknesses of 15/32 inches or 5/8 inches, with the 15/32 inches being the minimum recommended thickness for Florida’s climate.
OSB is another popular type of roof sheathing material used in Florida because it is more affordable than plywood. However, OSB is not as strong as plywood and can be more susceptible to water damage, making it important to use the recommended minimum thickness of 7/16 inches for roof sheathing.
It’s worth noting that some building codes in Florida may require thicker roof sheathing depending on the roof design, wind zone, and other factors. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a licensed roofing contractor.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which offers Commercial Roofing Contractors In Clearwater FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
