What Is Laminate Sheathing?

Function

• Laminate sheathing is installed onto building surfaces and serves as a base for finish applications. It helps construct structural walls that meet building codes around energy-efficiency, weather-resistance and wind pressure. While sheathing products are often marketed as having structural, nonstructural or hybrid benefits, laminate sheathing tends to serve the latter functions. Laminate sheathing can be used not only on exterior and interior walls, but also on cavity walls, basements, ceilings and roof decks. It is generally used in re-siding projects or new roof applications.

Types

• Laminate sheathing can be made with polystyrene, phenolic, urethane and isocyanurate or foam panels. Other laminated sheathing is made with paperboard, which can replace corner braces in buildings. The panels’ surface are laminated with materials including aluminum foil, aluminum foil laminated kraft paper or polyethylene (poly) sheets. While laminated foam sheathing is used for its high R-value or thermal resistance to heat flow, laminated paperboard sheathing can provide both insulation and structural support for wall construction.

Size

• Laminate sheathing panels typically come in 4-foot by 8-foot and 4-foot by 9-foot sizes. However, some laminate sheathing panels have widths that are slightly larger than 4 feet for overlapping in construction. The average thickness for laminate sheathing with foil facing is approximately ¼ inch.

Benefits

• One of the benefits of laminate sheathing is that it prepares and smoothes building surfaces for siding applications. It is also more resistant to stress and the sun's ultraviolet rays. This is particularly useful in circumstances where application of siding and other surface coverings is delayed. Laminated sheathing also adds protection against moisture, bacteria and rough handling. Some laminate sheathing is recyclable and made of environmentally friendly materials. For example, some manufacturers produce 100 percent recycle foam and apply laminates that are free of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

Considerations

• When choosing sheathing type, consider factors such as weather conditions, insulation needs and personal budget. Your wall and siding’s material will also determine whether laminate sheathing is appropriate for your project. Use shear or corner bracing units, galvanized nails and wire crown staples when installing laminate sheathing. Moreover, be careful when applying siding since rough nailing and hammering can puncture or crush the laminate sheathing underneath.