When it comes to construction materials, fiberboard sheathing vs plywood are two of the most commonly used options. Whether you’re building a home, renovating, or working on an exterior project, the choice between these two materials can have a significant impact on the durability, strength, and overall cost of your project.
Each material brings its advantages, so understanding their differences will help you make the right decision for your specific needs. In this blog, we’ll compare fiberboard sheathing vs plywood in terms of strength, moisture resistance, cost, and other essential factors.
What is Fiberboard Sheathing?
Fiberboard sheathing is a type of engineered wood product made from wood fibers that are bonded together using resin and compressed under heat. This process forms a lightweight yet durable panel commonly used for exterior wall applications.
Fiberboard sheathing is particularly appreciated for its affordability and insulation properties, which can make homes more energy-efficient. The panels come in various thicknesses, and they are often treated with wax or other moisture-resistant coatings to enhance their performance.
Fiberboard sheathing is primarily used in residential construction for siding and exterior walls, where its light weight and ease of installation make it a go-to option. It is also known for its ability to absorb sound, which can be a significant benefit in reducing noise pollution in residential areas.
What is Plywood?
Plywood is an engineered wood product made from thin layers (or “plies”) of wood veneer, which are glued together at alternating angles to form a strong, multi-layered sheet. This cross-grain structure gives plywood its strength and resistance to warping. It is often used in applications requiring high durability and load-bearing capabilities, such as floors, walls, roofs, and other structural elements of buildings.
Plywood is available in various grades, from lower grades used for subflooring or rough construction to higher grades with a smooth surface finish suitable for furniture-making or cabinetry. The versatility of plywood makes it a popular choice for both structural and aesthetic applications in construction.
Key Differences Between Fiberboard Sheathing vs Plywood
1. Strength and Durability
Plywood is widely recognized for its superior strength, especially in load-bearing applications. Its multi-layered construction provides excellent durability and resistance to warping, making it ideal for high-stress environments like flooring and roofing. Additionally, plywood can hold nails, screws, and fasteners more securely than fiberboard sheathing.
Fiberboard sheathing, while durable in its own right, does not offer the same level of strength as plywood. It is not intended for structural use and is better suited for non-load-bearing applications, such as insulation or wall sheathing.
2. Moisture Resistance
Plywood generally offers better moisture resistance compared to fiberboard sheathing, especially when treated with waterproof coatings or constructed from exterior-grade materials. This makes plywood a more suitable option for outdoor applications or areas exposed to moisture, such as roofing or exterior siding.
Fiberboard sheathing, on the other hand, is more susceptible to moisture absorption. If exposed to prolonged damp conditions, it can swell or break down over time. While some types of fiberboard are treated with moisture-resistant additives, it is still not as reliable in wet conditions as plywood.
3. Insulation
Fiberboard sheathing outperforms plywood in terms of insulation. Its composition of wood fibers makes it an excellent insulator, providing thermal resistance that can help regulate temperatures within a building. This makes fiberboard a great choice for projects focused on energy efficiency, especially in colder climates where insulating properties are crucial.
Plywood, in contrast, does not offer significant insulation on its own. In projects where plywood is used, additional insulation materials are typically required to meet energy efficiency standards.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Fiberboard sheathing is generally more affordable than plywood, making it a cost-effective choice for projects with tight budgets. This is particularly true for applications that don’t require the additional strength provided by plywood.
Plywood, while more expensive, offers long-term value due to its strength, versatility, and durability. The higher cost is justified in projects requiring load-bearing materials or enhanced moisture resistance.
5. Eco-Friendliness
Fiberboard sheathing is often considered more eco-friendly than plywood because it’s made from recycled wood fibers and emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Manufacturers often use sustainable practices in producing fiberboard, and it can be a more environmentally friendly option.
Plywood can also be eco-friendly, particularly if it is sourced from sustainable forests and uses low-VOC adhesives. However, higher-grade plywood options, particularly those treated for moisture resistance, may include chemicals that are less environmentally friendly.
6. Ease of Installation
Both plywood and fiberboard sheathing are relatively easy to install. Fiberboard’s lightweight nature makes it especially easy to handle, making it a popular choice for DIY projects or large installations. It can be cut to size with ease and requires less manpower to transport.
Plywood, while also fairly easy to install, is heavier and bulkier. For large-scale projects or installations that require large sheets, multiple workers may be needed to handle the material safely.
Fiberboard Sheathing: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent insulation properties
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Affordable and cost-effective
- Eco-friendly with recycled wood fibers
- Good for sound absorption
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy structural loads
- Susceptible to moisture damage
- Requires proper sealing for outdoor use
Plywood: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior strength and durability
- Moisture-resistant, especially when treated
- Versatile for various structural applications
- Available in different grades for specific uses
- Holds nails and fasteners securely
Cons:
- More expensive than fiberboard
- Heavier and harder to install
- Lacks significant insulation properties
Which Should You Choose: Fiberboard Sheathing vs Plywood?
Ultimately, the choice between fiberboard sheathing vs plywood depends on the specific needs of your project. If your project demands strength, durability, and load-bearing capability, plywood is the best option. It’s particularly suited for structural uses such as roofing, flooring, and walls.
However, if insulation, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness are more important, fiberboard sheathing is a viable alternative. It works well for non-structural applications, particularly in energy-efficient buildings.
Is Fiberboard Sheathing Stronger Than Plywood?
No, plywood is stronger and better suited for structural applications. Fiberboard sheathing is best for insulation and lightweight uses.
Can Fiberboard Sheathing Be Used Outdoors?
Fiberboard sheathing can be used outdoors, but it must be properly sealed to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause swelling or degradation.
Which Is More Eco-Friendly, Plywood vs Fiberboard Sheathing?
Fiberboard sheathing is often considered more eco-friendly as it’s made from recycled wood fibers and has lower formaldehyde emissions.
Is Plywood More Expensive Than Fiberboard Sheathing?
Yes, plywood tends to be more expensive due to its strength and versatility in structural applications.
Does Fiberboard Sheathing Offer Good Insulation?
Yes, fiberboard sheathing offers better insulation properties compared to plywood, making it a good option for energy-efficient buildings.