Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

          OSB is manufactured from waterproof heat-cured adhesives and rectangularly shaped wood strands that are arranged in cross-oriented layers, similar to plywood. This results in a structural engineered wood panel that shares many of the strength and performance characteristics of plywood. Produced in huge, continuous mats, OSB is a solid panel product of consistent quality with no laps, gaps or voids.

Unlimited Applications
OSB is widely used in residential and commercial construction, and is gaining popularity in markets such as materials handling and the manufacturing of upholstered furniture. The manufacturing process makes it possible for panel makers to add innovative features such as a slip-resistant texture to panels designed for roof sheathing, and to supply oversized and metric panels.

Environmentally Smart
OSB panels can be manufactured from a wide range of fast-growing species and from relatively small trees. The production process utilizes a maximum amount of wood fiber from each tree that is harvested, and because the process is very highly automated the yield of finished product is very high.

The APA Mark of Quality
APA trademarks appear only on products manufactured by APA member mills. The mark signifies that panel quality is subject to verification through APA audit– a procedure designed to assure manufacture in conformance with APA performance standards or the standard shown in the mark.

(By: http://www.apawood.org/level_b.cfm?content=prd_osb_main)

            OSB technology also consumes the entire log, enabling waste-free utilization of fiber and far greater environmental efficiency compared to plywood and non-engineered building materials. In Canada, Ainsworth has long term timber supply agreements that provide up to 85% of its fiber requirements. In Minnesota, Ainsworth purchases (or purchases from suppliers) timber sold by the u.s. Federal Agencies, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, State County’s, and private land timber holders.

            Throughout its operations, Ainsworth® is committed to maintaining the integrity of the environment, practicing sustainable forest management and complying with all provincial regulations and codes.The company’s forest management practices are certified by the internationally recognized iso 14001 Environmental Management System.