Plank roof sheathing and when was it common in residential buildings?

Plank roof sheathing is a type of roofing material that consists of wooden planks, typically made from spruce, pine, or fir, that are laid across the roof rafters to provide a solid base for the roof covering. This type of sheathing was common in residential buildings prior to the mid-20th century, when it was gradually replaced by other materials such as plywood and oriented strand board (OSB).

Plank roof sheathing was popular in the United States from the early 19th century until the 1940s. During this time, wooden planks were the primary material used for roof sheathing, as they were readily available and affordable. Plank sheathing was often used in combination with other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles or metal panels.

One of the disadvantages of plank roof sheathing is that it can be prone to warping and splitting over time, which can lead to leaks and other problems. It also tends to be less durable than modern roofing materials, and may require more frequent maintenance and repair. As a result, many homeowners and builders have switched to other types of sheathing, such as plywood or OSB, which are more resistant to moisture and other types of damage.

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