The Merchant Magazlne

which APA Performance-Rated Panels are suitable for their projects?

First, ask about span ratings. APA Rated Sheathing has two span ratings separated by a slash, such as 32/16 or 48/24. The left-hand number denotes the maximum recommended spacing of supports when the panel is used for roof sheathing with the long dimension of the panel across three or more supports. The right-hand number indicates the maximum recommended spacing of support when the panel is used for subflooring with the long dimension of the panel across three or more supports. For instance, a rating of 32/16 means the panel should be placed over supports spaced a maximum of 32 inches on center in roofconstruction, and 16 inches on center for flooring.

Story at a Glance

How to interpret panel trademarks and identify specific uses... ways to show customers what is suitable for their projects tipsfor recommending companion products. Check, also, where the panel will be used, in order to recommend a proper exposure durability classification. Most sheathing will eventually be protected, and therefore can be specified Exposure 1. But, if a customer is looking for panels which will be directly exposed to the weather, propose an Exterior panel or 303 Siding for the job.

For flooring a customer has two options - a single-layer floor built with APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor, or APA Rated Sheathing with an underlayment. Sturd-I-Floor is a Performance-Rated Panel designed and manufactured specifically for residential and other light frame single-floor applications for use under carpet.

Sheathing or Sturd-I-Floor topped with sanded underlayment is recommended for glue-down vinyl floor covering. Sturd-I-Floor has Span Ratings of 16, 20, 24, and 48 inches, in thicknesses ranging from l9132 to 1-ll8 inch, and in two exposure classifications: Exterior and Exposure 1. Panels are available with either square edges or tongue-andgroove edges as specified.

For a stiffer floor and to alleviate squeaks and nail-popping, you can recommend the builder use ring shank nails and construction adhesive with the tongue-and-groove panels fastened to the joists. APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor 48 o.c., commonly called2-4-t, may also be used in heavy timber roof construction.

If your customer is looking for siding, there is a variety of choices.

(See page 9) But, as in selling other structural panel products, remember companion articles which may be sold with 303 Siding. For example, non-staining, non-corrosive nails should be suggested. Also, the builder may want to use Z Flashing for joint details. Z Flashing is a Z-shaped piece of galvanized steel, aluminum or plastic installed at horizontal joints of plywood siding to prevent water from entering the wall cavity. Plyflash is also available for Texture l-ll and 5/8" reverse board and batten patterns. Plyflash is a prefinished flashing which matches the siding pattern, disguising joints. Lumber trim is necessary for battens, joints, corner, window and door details.

Structural wood panels are often used as finishing materials for soflits. If the customer wants a closed soffit with a rustic look, he could use a 3/8" 303 Rough-Sawn. If he prefers a painted soffit, then A-C or Medium Density Overlaid (MDO) is recommended. On the other hand, should he want an open soflit, rough-sawn or Texture l-l I patterns are options. Remind your builder to buy materials for vents; you'll save plenty of headaches later!