Jul 22, 2005. /Lesprom Network/. Structural wood panel industry share of the U.S. single-family wall sheathing construction market rose by 2% last year, from 67% to 69%, according to data compiled for APA—the engineered wood association by the National Association of home builders research center, Inc. Market share also rose by 1% in 2003 and has grown from just 51% 10 years ago. The growth of OSB and plywood market share runs counter to the belief several months ago that relatively higher prices or availability concerns might erode share. However, growing recognition among builders of the performance benefits of structural wood panels and the successful introduction and promotion of the APA Narrow Wall Bracing Method that helps builders meet new requirements of the International Residential Code (IRC) appear to be driving market share growth. The APA Narrow Wall Bracing Method permits builders to use narrower corner bracing than is normally allowed next to openings, such as garage doors, provided the house is fully sheathed with structural wood panels. APA began promoting the method in 2003. “Builders recognize the value of structural wood panels and more are switching every day,” APA Vice President Dennis Hardman noted. Among the advantages of plywood and OSB wall sheathing appreciated by builders, he said, are the products’ unmatched strength and stiffness properties, particularly in areas subject to high wind or seismic events; superior performance as a nail base for finish siding materials; elimination of the need for let-in bracing; high impact resistance; ease of installation; proven durability in all kinds of climates; and superior noise reduction properties. Builder recognition of those performance advantages was underscored by a survey conducted by the NAHB Research Center last year that found some 60% of builders who fully sheath walls with structural wood panels believe doing so can contribute significantly to reducing customer callbacks. Some 88% of survey respondents who fully sheath their homes indicated racking strength under high wind and seismic loads is a distinct advantage of structural wood panel wall sheathing, and some two-thirds said plywood and OSB wall sheathing reduces building code problems. North American structural wood panel industry production capacity, meanwhile, is forecast to rise substantially over the next five years. Plans for the addition of about 10 billion square feet of new capacity have been announced. Current industry capacity is approximately 44 billion feet. Based in Tacoma, Washington, APA is a nonprofit trade association representing North American manufacturers of plywood, oriented strand board, glued laminated timber, wood I-joists, laminated veneer lumber, and other engineered wood products. Its primary functions are quality auditing and testing, applied research, and market support and development.