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Will 3/8 plywood sag on a ceiling?

summit151

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Jul 24, 2013
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69
Hello i am about to install plywood on the walls and the ceiling in my new shop. I have purchased 3/8 plywood already and the trusses are 24 inches on center. I am wondering if the plywood will sag? I will also be blowing insulation in

Thanks
 
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SD396

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Dec 7, 2012
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Kelowna, B.C.
I'm pretty sure my ceiling is 3/8" ply on 24" centers and there is no sagging. House was built in '74. Walls I would go 5/8" or 3/4" for durability plus you can hang things anywhere you want without having to hit a stud.
 

boobag

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Aug 15, 2010
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397
only way it may sag, is if you have a lot of moisture or it gets wet a lot. but even then, it wouldnt sag much.
 

Morrisman

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Nov 7, 2006
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Location
Angeles City, Philippines
I was planning the same thing but with 1/4" play, and bigger spacing. The thinner it is, the lighter it is, and it will only be to keep dust/air at bay, and provide a little insulation.

I also planned to screw 2" x 3/8" battens across to cover the joins, and also provide some support. Maybe paint them a contrasting colour, to fancy it up a bit. :thumbup:
 

buzz4041

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Sep 13, 2011
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South Texas
I'm on 16" centers for the ceiling and used 1'4" with no sag and insulated on top. On the walls I went with 1/2" for being able to hang something anywhere I want and it works well.
 
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Cyberbear

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Nov 23, 2013
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1,524
Location
California
It looks like most journal members are happy with 3/8" over head ply at 24" center spacing, but I'm a little leery about that, especially with the insulation weight and if you ever get a roof leak and the insulation becomes water logged, the ply may well sag. I suppose it depends on the quality of the plywood you are using.
 

ADSR

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Jan 12, 2013
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10,713
There can't be much diff in price between 3/8 and 1/2. Take it back and go for the 1/2.
 

ADSR

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Jan 12, 2013
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Very interesting. I'm wondering, totally from a cost standpoint, if OSB would be an option.

Been roof sheeting new construction at 24" OC with OSB for years. You have to use an aluminum H-clip between trusses. Works well. 7/16 OSB will be fine inside used like drywall.
 

diypolebarns

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Mar 7, 2010
Messages
17
Location
Arcanum, Ohio
Be certain you utilize plywood and not OSB. Plywood is inherently stronger than OSB. 3/8" will work, but if you are planning on blowing cellulose insulation in your ceiling you will want to move to 7/16" OSB or either 1/2" plywood or OSB. It is also best to use a plastic vapor barrier above your ceiling and be certain the attic space is well ventilated. This will keep the moisture issue in check.
 

charlie v

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Dec 16, 2010
Messages
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Location
Surrey, BC
Be certain you utilize plywood and not OSB. Plywood is inherently stronger than OSB. 3/8" will work, but if you are planning on blowing cellulose insulation in your ceiling you will want to move to 7/16" OSB or either 1/2" plywood or OSB. It is also best to use a plastic vapor barrier above your ceiling and be certain the attic space is well ventilated. This will keep the moisture issue in check.

+1 on that
 
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