Floor (partical board)

[Vjgulli]

I was checking out the underside of my 2013 Rockwood 1940 LTD pop-up and was a bit discouraged to find that the floor of it appears to be a type of pressboard? Well it looks as if there is large shaved pieces of wood glued together and sprayed with a black paint type sealer. The wood is not what I expected to find, I thought it would be the marine type of wood used on the bunk ends. Anyone have any input. I checked it because it felt like it was giving a bit in the areas where there is no metal supports. It doesn't seemed to be cracked or damaged in anyway. Can anyone offer any info? Thanks

[KyDan]

It's called OSB or oriented strand board. It's made up with water proof glue and
is rated for outside sheathing. Habitat for humanity uses it on the roofs and outside
walls and sub floors of houses built in my area at least. It's OK for the application you mention.
Lightweight trailers often have somewhat soft feeling floors. Did you notice the
softness during your pre-sale walk thru?? I think you'll be OK as this is fairly normal
for your type trailer. Mine has the same stuff.

FYI you mention particle board in your subject line-- that is NOT the same as OSB.
Particle board which is often used in high pressure laminate counter tops is NOT
made with waterproof glue and it will disintegrate if it gets wet.

[Vjgulli]

Thank you for your very detailed answer which sure put me at ease. The use of the term partial board was simply my lack of knowledge in that area. Knowing that I can rely on people when using this site helps me a great deal. I did remember feeling this in the floor of the demo model and chalked it up to maybe just high traffic and perhaps the length of time that camper was on display in the lot. I do have a full bumper to bumper warranty until 8/28/13 and if I notice it getting any different will call it to the dealers attention, but based on what you've told me I feel it is ok. Thanks again!

[crasher]

Actually, OSB is heavier than plywood. But it's about 1/4 the price.

BTW, the perfect material would be PVC board. Light, strong, fairly inexpensive and works like wood, yet impervious to moisture.

So it's another one of those things where a manufacturer has to choose - lightness or cheapness. Takes these guys about 30 years to get with the new materials. OSB is probably considered by them as "new".

[femetal1]

Oh a PVC Board floor would be awesome! I've seen some fishing docks and decks made from that and it looks like it would last forever.

[BigBaron]

Don't coat it with anything!
That black "paint" is just for color. The floor needs to be able to "breathe" so if it gets wet, the moisture can get out.

[Mark and Linda]

My 2009 Puma has the same type of wood in the floor. I have replaced a section recently. I went to Lowe's and got a 4x8 board, just used a small portion. I think the PUP I owned had the same type in the floor.