OSB flooring submerged in water
We are having a new home built by a nationwide large builder. Due to heavy rains and no roof installed our floor on the main level had standing water for at least 3-4 days and then again for several more. When I brought this to their attention I was given the standard answer that the wood can withstand exposure for up to 120 days. They are missing my point that this is not just exposure but complete submersion.
Where can I find information which I can site showing this is not best practices? Even better if I can find testing data. My concern is over time the floor is going to deteriorate due to long term submersion. I can’t imagine it is designed to be flooded long term. I am of course frustrated that they did not sweep it out or drill drain holes etc.
I have reached out to the local MBA but I am not sure how long it will take them to get back to me. If they need to replace this flooring I would like it done prior to the cabinets going in, there is already a shower surround installed over it.
If by any chance this is a non-issue, great! I am not confident that it is a non-issue though. I want to do some research before talking with them further.
I have attached pictures, the first one was taken on June 13th, the next one on June 16th (the same standing water) the last one was taken after it had all dried up and became submerged yet again on June 29th. I am not sure how long the water was standing on both occasions as I did not go out to the site to check.
Thank you in advance!
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Replies
crw1999,
Here in the PNW houses get framed right through our wet winters. to stop the subfloor being submerged we cut the base-plates at doorways and drill holes where it pools. The effect of prolonged wetting is unpredictable. Plywood can delaminate, and OSB usually swells at the edges. Fortunately the damage is visible once things dry out. You will be able to see whether it needs remediation or not. With OSB that typically means planing the edges to level the floor, or in extreme cases playing another layer on top.
Cut edges of the OSB are most susceptible. Edges from the mill are usually sealed specifically to help resist water issues. Look at the edges, especially cut edges, of any submerged sheet goods (OSB and plywood), and cut edges of any engineered lumber like LSL studs or sill plates. Conventional sawn framing lumber is much less prone to water issues by comparison as long as it’s able to dry out.
I’d take Malcolm’s advice and drill some drain holes to get those puddles gone. You don’t want water sitting on anything any longer than absolutely necessary.
Bill
I know building a house is stressful and writing big checks make me emotional making it hard for me to be reasonable. No one likes it but most houses do get rained on before the roof is installed. It is just a fact that it happens more often than not. The boards are treated with a wax that will slow waters entry into the panel. Some minor swelling is to be expected. If was wet for several months it could become a problem requiring the OSB to be sanded before installing the floors.
You are building a relationship with your builder ask him nicely to please drill a few holes so most of the water will drain. Tell him it will make you feel better if nothing else.
You and your builder will have obstacles to overcome try to work together if at all possible. This is not the issue blow up your relationship and have him walk or you to fire him.
Walta