Does Florida Allow Thermo Ply To Be Used As Outside Sheathing?

This chapter outlines the minimum requirements for exterior walls, coverings, openings, windows, doors, soffits, fascias, architectural trim, balconies, and bay and oriel in the Florida Building Code. It also discusses the use of five common structural exterior sheathing options: wood-based, gypsum, glass mat, cement board, and Barricade® Thermo-Brace®.

The chapter emphasizes the importance of temperature control in a properly constructed building exterior shell, as it keeps moisture out of framing cavities and behind the wall. EXACOR panels can replace fire-retardant treated plywood or OSB, and exterior gypsum sheathing panels in certain fire-resistant rated buildings.

There are several differences between OSB and Thermo Ply for exterior wall sheathing, including oriented-strand board, plywood, structural fiberboard, diagonal tongue and groove, and foam board. Thermo-Ply Red Structural Sheathing panels are permitted to resist transverse wind load forces using allowable transverse loads.

Thermo-Ply Blue Structural Sheathing is permitted to be designed in accordance with SDPWS for shear wall design. Thermo-Ply Green Non-Structural vapor barrier is used for sheathing without Plywood, OSB, or other structural sheathing underneath. All grades of Thermo-Brace have been evaluated and permitted as a water-resistive barrier (WRB) noted in IRC section R703.2 and IBC.

Foam cement siding products have either smooth or textured faces and are intended for exterior wall and related applications. The chapter also provides guidelines on how to install additional siding, such as 5/8″ plywood, and the use of Thermo-Brace for exterior sheathing.

What is the building code for exterior wall insulation in Florida?

In Florida, residential insulation requirements vary by location, with framed wall insulation meeting or exceeding R-13, block walls with interior insulation exceeding R-7. 8, exterior insulation at R-6, ceiling insulation at R-30, and raised floors at least R-13. Insulating power (R-Value) is only one factor to consider when building or improving a home for comfort. Different materials respond differently to weather conditions, making air-tight seals important.

To achieve a comfortable home, consider more than mandated insulation requirements and consider different types of insulation, including air-tight seals, traditional batting insulation, and air-tight seals.

Can you put insulation on the outside of your house?

In an existing home, consider using blow-in insulation for a higher R-value and minimal disturbance to finished areas. For remodeling, consider two-part spray foam or wet spray cellulose insulation for open wall cavities, injectable spray foam for non-open cavities, or blanket insulation for DIYers. For new homes, consider structural insulated panels, insulating concrete forms, and insulated concrete blocks for superior insulation and minimal thermal bridging.

Advanced wall framing techniques can improve the whole-wall R-value by reducing thermal bridging and maximizing insulated wall area. For those building a traditional framed house, consider using advanced wall framing techniques to reduce thermal bridging and maximize insulated wall area.

Is thermo-ply sheathing better than OSB?

ThermoPLY is a structural sheathing material made from high-sized fibers and an extruded polyethylene layer, which is more pliable than standard materials. This flexibility allows it to outperform OSB in envelope leakage rates and follow walls closer than rigid OSB. ThermoPLY provides a tighter seal to studs, enhancing weathertightness. It can be butted together and taped at seams or overlapped and fastened to studs, with the overlap installation method eliminating the need for sealing tape.

What is the best plywood for outside weather?

Marine plywood is ideal for outdoor furniture and flooring construction due to its resistance to harsh weather conditions and long-lasting durability. Pressure-treated plywood offers numerous benefits, including increased durability, greater structural integrity, and resistance to rotting and decomposing. Its excellent dimensional stability reduces the risk of warping, twisting, or breaking over time.

It also provides significant insect resistance, protecting against termites, carpenter ants, and other pests. Its natural antibacterial properties minimize the need for regular maintenance and repairs, resulting in long-term cost and time savings.

Is ThermoPLY better than OSB?

ThermoPLY is a structural sheathing material made from high-sized fibers and an extruded polyethylene layer, which is more pliable than standard materials. This flexibility allows it to outperform OSB in envelope leakage rates. ThermoPLY can follow walls to a closer degree than rigid OSB, providing a tighter seal to studs. It can be butted together and taped at the seams or overlapped and fastened to studs. ThermoPLY’s 1/8″ thickness and stapled fastening method effectively seal the entire home to a greater degree than OSB sheathing.

What type of plywood can be used externally?

Exterior plywood is a versatile material used in various outdoor applications, with the most common being CDX or ACX. These plywoods are marked with an X for their use and construction grade, with A being a premium grade for high-end cabinetry. CDX is a more affordable option with sturdy layers made from veneers, high-density hardwood, or light hardwood. Marine plywood, made from wood without knots, is the highest quality and is used for building boats and marine applications due to its reduced cracking risk.

It is also easier to cut and sand, leaving cleaner edges. Other types of exterior plywood include pressure treated plywood, overlaid plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), and T1-11. Pressure treated plywood is infused with chemicals to increase resistance against mold and mildew, while overlaid plywood has a cleaner finish and better resistance to wear and tear. OSB is an engineered substitute for semi-exposed areas, while T1-11 is commonly used for siding. Overall, exterior plywood offers a wide range of options for outdoor use.

Is thermo-ply waterproof?

ThermoPLY is a lightweight, high-strength cellulosic fiber board designed for efficient sheathing of buildings. It offers durability, moisture resistance, and a superior air barrier. The board is coated with a factory-extrusion coating for a built-in water-resistant barrier with 3″ overlapped or tapped joints. The Advanced Moisture Guard option provides adhesive for tighter performance. ThermoPLY is available in 48″ or 48- 3/4″ widths, 49″ width for AMG, 8′, 9′, or 10′ lengths, and custom lengths up to 14′. It is suitable for exterior wall sheathing and bracing, as well as interior shearwall bracing.

What type of plywood for exterior wall sheathing?

Softwood plywood, composed of Douglas fir, pine, Southern yellow pine, poplar, and whitewood, is a prevalent material utilized for exterior frame sheathing, roof sheathing, subflooring, the construction of sheds, plant boxes, doghouses, and shelving.

Is thermo ply structural sheathing?

Thermo-Ply is a code-approved exterior structural sheathing, water-resistant barrier, and air barrier that serves as a protective barrier against water and air.

Can thermo ply get wet?

Thermo Ply is a foil-faced cardboard that serves both a structural and waterproof function, rendering it unsuitable for prolonged exposure.

What insulation is recommended for exterior walls?

The U. S. Department of Energy recommends that exterior walls in colder climates have R-values of R-13 to R-23, while in milder climates, a lower R-value may suffice. Consistency in R-values throughout the wall assembly is crucial. Building codes, energy codes, and local codes should be consulted for specific requirements. Updated Building Codes call for continuous insulation on both below and above grade exterior walls. Insulation materials, such as type, thickness, and design, are used to increase R-values. Common insulation materials include: