GBA Logo horizontal Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram YouTube Icon Navigation Search Icon Main Search Icon Video Play Icon Plus Icon Minus Icon Picture icon Hamburger Icon Close Icon Sorted

Community and Q&A

Fastening 2×8 Plywood Sheathing to Framing

Y_Knot | Posted in General Questions on

We are remodeling a 1960’s ranch and the exterior sheathing is 2’x8’ (running horizontally) stapled to 2”x4” on 16” centers. My contractor says we need to block every two feet due to the 2×8 size but I’m not convinced.

My plan would be to nail it down for extra security and then tape the seams and then 1.5” of rigid foam (taped and attached) and 3/4” treated plywood strips for furring. Then hardboard or smart side.

What are y’all’s thoughts?

GBA Prime

Join the leading community of building science experts

Become a GBA Prime member and get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

Replies

  1. AndyCD | | #1

    Is the 2x8 plywood sheathung at least half inch thick and in good condition? If so, no modification necessary.

  2. Expert Member
    MALCOLM TAYLOR | | #2

    Y_Knot,

    The only reason I can think of that you would need to block the edges of the sheets is if you are in a high seismic area and need to increase shear resistance. If that is the case, you should also be doing various other improvements at the same time.

Log in or create an account to post an answer.

Community

Recent Questions and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |