Can i use Oriented Strand Board as a boat floor?

Question

i have a 14ft open fishing boat that i have been maintaining, i am now at the stage of fitting a new deck. would Oriented Strand Board be ok to use instead of plywood as i can get hold of osb for free from a friend?

Answer 1

it falls apart in standing water so i would say no.

take a lok at a peice thats been lying around on a building site for a few weeks,

If you use marine or external ply, you will do the job once. Use OSB and you will change it every year.

Answer 2

You can use it but it will not last. Salt destroys the glue that holds the board together very quickly.

Although expensive, Marine plywood is the only board that will last.

Answer 3

no a big no. water and osb do not do well with each other. you will have a big pile of soaked exploded wood pcs . there is a better solution . use a water prof marine plywood. the size   of the boat means a sheet might do. at about 45.00 dollars i am guessing

Answer 4

marine plywood....or possibly maybe A/A outside ply with water proof glue.....WITH ALL THE EXPOSED END GRAIN AND KNOT HOLES ON ALL SIX SIDES WELL AND TRULY SEALED WITH EPOXY RESIN is the only way to go and have something last.

OSB? As the other guy said you'll be replacing it every year.

Answer 5

I would recommend against it. Will rot pretty quickly. As the old saying goes: "you get what you pay for."

Go with marine grade, it will last a significantly longer time.

To Yankee S: are you looking for another set of hands for your shop?

Answer 6

No..... It will not hold up to moisture