Is a better OSB better for basement subfloor than cheaper OSB?
I need to make a determination on an OSB product for my basement subfloor. There are no basement moisture problems. But I do have a very active sump pump that runs 1/2 – 3/4 of the year. I have a primary and a secondary back-up pump in the sump. And the whole thing is backed up by a standby generator. However, this being a mechanical system with inevitable mechanical failures, I was wondering if I can use an OSB that can withstand temporary contact with bulk water.
Products like Weyerhaeuser Gold, Norbord Pinnacle, and Ainsworth PointSix have various “no sand” features, but at 80% premium to the regular stuff. Question is, are these products worth it in case I do get bulk water infiltration? If they indeed perform as advertised and my subfloor remains intact, will there be other issues such as mold on the OSB that will render this feature irrelavent? The OSB will go on top of a dimpled membrane to act as a vapor barrier.
Thanks.
Replies
Are you putting the OSB directly on the concrete ? You should put down 2x4 sleepers with at least a 6 mil plastic under them. I used the pinnacle in my garage and did just what I mentioned above. It was a lot damper than what you made mention on yours and it is a big difference in there...I also added 1.5 inch rigid foam. The pinnicle is now carried by Home Depot and $20 a sheet in the northeast region. Not sure how it will hold up if it gets soaked....might be worth a call to them...Some of the MDF as in Medtech can put put in water but not sure about that as a subfloor. Certainly will cost you more..
Sorry, meant to say Medex...
You should not put any wood product (other than treated wood) directly on a concrete surface. Even if the concrete is "dry", moisture leaches through it and into the wood.
And if you're wondering about OSB and water, take a small piece drop in a glass of water for a few hours.
Thanks for catching my error....forgot to say PT sleepers...