Which aspect of wall sheathing affects lateral resistance in construction?

The thickness and material type of wall sheathing play a crucial role in determining the lateral resistance of a structure. Lateral resistance refers to the ability of a building to withstand horizontal forces, such as wind or seismic activity.

Thicker wall sheathing can provide greater resistance to shear forces, helping to maintain the structural integrity of the walls during an event that induces lateral loads. Additionally, the material type also contributes significantly to this resistance. Different materials, such as plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or fiberboard, possess varying mechanical properties that influence their strength and stiffness.

For example, plywood generally has a higher shear strength compared to some other materials, making it more effective at resisting lateral forces. The combination of thickness and material type ultimately ensures that the wall sheathing can effectively transfer loads to the framing of the structure, enhancing the overall stability and safety of the building during lateral load events.