Installing plywood or chipboard over 1X6 planking on a 52 year old house' roof.

JBfromSD

I am getting ready to replace my asphalt shingles on my roof and am interested in installing plywood or chipboard over 1X6 planking on a 52 year old house' roof. Trusses are 24" apart and there is no sagging. Planks are tight (some 1/8" spacing here and there). Wood is in very good condition.

My reasons for adding a layer of plywood are to add strength to the roof. I also understand it may add some insulation for temperature and noise (I live on a semi-busy street).

I mentioned the idea of adding plywood to a contracter who came by my house soliciting a job and he said I wouldn't need to put plywood on. That the houses in the area do fine with the current planking and that there is a risk of rotting if I add plywood. I was wondering if he was just interested in a quick job or if I was getting sound advice. Any thoughts??? What would you do??? Thanks...Jim

DexterII

A lot of variables, and I am not an expert, but, personally, I probably would go over it with 7/16" OSB. However, my suggestion to someone else is to either wait for an architect ot engineer to come along, or preferrably to contact one in your immediate area.

Just a couple of things to keep in mind though...
It is going to add weight, so the truss design should be considered.
Since you have trusses, which inherently transfer the load straight down on the walls, I do not believe that added strength is as much of a factor as it would be, as an example, on a 100 year old house with balloon framing.
It is going to add thickness, which could increase the labor, hence cost, in regard to flashings, second floor siding, etc., depending on the configuration of your home.

Also, and you have probably already looked at this, but this is the ideal time to take a serious look at insulation and proper venting.

OldNBroken

Your roofer was correct. It's not necessary and a waste of money.
Resheeting will neither add any R-value nor will it cut down much on outside noise.

He's doing you right, you'd just be spending money on nothing.

There is a product on the market that will suit your needs just fine. It's called insulation! Google it if you like

Sorry for the smart-ass comment, it's just the way I am.