Which boards or panels must meet the minimum thickness requirement of 3/8 inch?

The correct answer is based on the specific requirements outlined in building codes for structural integrity and performance. Wood structural panels are utilized in various applications within residential construction and are subject to established minimum thickness criteria to ensure they can effectively support loads and meet safety standards.

Wood structural panels, including oriented strand board (OSB) and plywood, are often used for wall sheathing, roof decking, and floor sheathing. A minimum thickness of 3/8 inch is essential for these applications to provide the necessary strength, stability, and durability. This thickness helps prevent issues such as bending, warping, or failure under load, which can compromise the safety and functionality of the building.

Other options, while they may have their own thickness requirements, do not necessarily meet the same rigorous structural standards as wood structural panels. For instance, plywood underlayment serves more of a decorative and smoothing function rather than contributing to the structural integrity of a building, and its thickness requirements can vary. Therefore, the emphasis on the minimum thickness for wood structural panels makes them the correct choice in this context.