Many folks have been to lumber yards and have looked at or purchased “OSB”, but how many know what it stands for, or what it is?  The letters “OSB” stand for “Oriented Strand Board”.  During the manufacturing process, chips or “strands” of wood are placed or “oriented” in a specific way to maximize strength and eliminate gaps.  While this placement is happening, adhesive is added, coating each piece to ensure a consistent, solid bond.  The coated strands are then compressed under extremely high pressure to the desired thickness.  One side of the sheet has texture and is designed to be placed “up” for traction while walking on it.  This same side usually has painted lines indicating 16” and 24” to aid in nailing.