AC266 - Wood Structural Panels

Wood structural panels are flat panels like plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) that are used to sheath buildings (on roofs, walls, and floors) and provide structural support. Plywood is made of thin wood veneers glued in perpendicular layers, and OSB is made of wood strands bonded in layers – both methods create a strong, stiff panel.

These panels serve as the skin of a wood-framed structure, tying together studs, joists, and rafters, and helping the building resist forces such as wind or earthquakes through shear walls and diaphragms. They come in standard sizes (often 4×8 feet) and are graded for exposure durability (exterior or interior use) and strength. Building codes recognize wood structural panels that meet specific product standards for performance, ensuring they can carry expected loads without excessive deflection or failure. For general composite wood products, see AC265 criteria.

This acceptance criteria provides a basis for evaluating wood structural panel products that may not be directly covered by existing codes. It establishes testing protocols, structural performance requirements, and quality standards needed for code approval of these critical sheathing materials.

• Nationwide acceptance by building officials for structural sheathing
• Streamlined approval process for plywood and OSB panels
• Third-party verification of structural and exposure durability claims
• Enhanced marketability for wall, roof, and floor sheathing applications

• ICC Evaluation Service