Concern About OSB Flooring Quality in New Build

last year

last modified: last year

Hi all,

I'm in the process of buying a new build and recently had a walk-through of the property. I noticed that the subfloor on the first floor is made of OSB boards. However, the boards look quite rough—there are deep bumps and they’re far from smooth (I am not sure yet if there are uneven surfaces).

Is this standard practice for builders? I was expecting a more finished subfloor, especially in a brand-new home. I’m wondering whether this is something I should raise with the builder and ask to have replaced or properly leveled before proceeding.

For context, I have the letter of offer from my bank, but we haven’t done the drawdown yet—so I still have some leverage, I suppose. And, I'm going to install SPC planks.

Would love to hear from anyone who’s dealt with similar issues. In attachment there are a few pictures of the OBS boards on the first floor.
Thank you.

Featured Answer

millworkman

last year

" Is this standard practice for builders? "

100% in tract or developer homes, 98% in even semi-custom homes.

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Comments (7)

worthy
last year
last modified: last year
So I've been a two per center for the last 40+ years!

I've only used OSB for temporary work platforms and for strengthening partition walls cut up by overenthusiastic plumbers.

A former building partner once fell through a spongy OSB roof, which kinda prejudiced him and me against the material. (Interestingly, the local AHJ won't even allow using it as temporary construction fencing.)

Press here for a professional comparative review.
Maria D thanked worthy
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PRO
Mark Bischak, Architect
last year
"A former building partner once fell through a spongy OSB roof"

Did both feet end up on the same side of the rafter?
worthy
last year
He fathered two kids later, so same side.
PRO
G & S Floor Service
last year
Low end OSB is allowed as long as it's 3/4". Will not do well with a nailed down hardwood floors. It will squeak. Won't do well with vynil either with all the swelling.

High performance OSB like Advantech is preferred. Good nail holding power, sealed on all sides, won't swell.
Maria D thanked G & S Floor Service
Maria D
Original Author
last year
@G & S Floor Service do you think the OSB boards in the pictures need to be replaced?
PRO
G & S Floor Service
last year
last modified: last year
If, you're installing SPC, install a layer of sanded plywood, over it: level, flat and smooth.
Maria D thanked G & S Floor Service