StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™
Combines high efficiency continuous insulation with structural strength for streamlined, high-performance wall construction!
Features and Benefits
- High-performance, factory-bonded 4 ft x 8 ft exterior sheathing panel
- Simplifies and speeds up wall construction by delivering continuous insulation in one easy-to-install panel
- Combines 7/16” water-resistant OSB with 1 1/8” EPS foam insulation
- Delivers R-Value: 5.1 (Tested to ASTM C518)
- Meets Structural 1 OSB requirements, supporting racking strength and wind load performance
- Crosslinking adhesive technology forms a permanent, high-strength bond after curing, preventing foam misalignment and ensuring long-term panel integrity
- Withstands wind speeds up to 140 mph (Category 4 hurricane) for superior storm protection*
- Engineered, tested and quality controlled
- Panels must be installed horizontally
*Wind Load Testing in Accordance with: ASTM E330/E330M-14 (2021)
Product Overview
Build smarter, faster and stronger with the StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™, the innovative insulated sheathing panel that merges structural performance with high-efficiency continuous thermal insulation (ci), all in a single, easy-to-install solution. Designed for residential construction, it’s the ideal choice for high-performance building envelopes.
Features and Benefits
Structural + Insulated
Combines Structural 1-rated 7/16” OSB with 1 1/8” EPS foam, providing durability, wind resistance and a tested R-Value of 5.1 — all in a single, easy-to-install panel.
Speeds Up Installation
Eliminate the need for separate sheathing and rigid insulation layers. Exterior Panel CI™ reduces material handling and labor time, helping crews stay efficient on-site.
Energy Code Compliant
Meets stringent energy codes across North America by delivering continuous insulation (CI), reducing thermal bridging and improving building envelope performance.
Flexible Installation
Panels can be installed horizontally using standard tools. Lightweight and easy to cut, drill and fasten.
Long-Term Performance
Engineered with strong adhesive for a lasting bond strength and precise alignment. EPS foam resists mold (ASTM C1338), delivers consistent thermal performance and meets CAN/ULC-S701-11 Type 2.
Technical Specifications
| Panel Size | 4 ft x 8 ft |
| Weight | 30 lbs |
| Total Thickness | 1 9/16” |
| OSB Layer | 7/16″ Structural 1 |
| EPS Foam | 1 1/8, CAN/ULC-S701-11 Type 2 |
| R-Value | 5.1 (ASTM C518 tested) |
| Structural Rating | Structural 1 OSB |
| Orientation | Horizontal |
| Certifications | NGBS Green, SFI Certified, UL Environment, LEED contribution* |
*Can contribute to obtain LEED credits.
Expanded polystyrene insulation (EPS)
- CAN/ULC-S701-11 – Type 2
- Product certified by UL Environment for low chemical emissions
- Resists mold & fungi growth per ASTM C1338
OSB panel
- CSA 0325-07, Exposure 1
- PS-2
- The oriented strand boards (OSB) used are NGBS Green Certified and Sustainable Forestry Initiative Certified
Building Code Information
| Feature | Canada (NBC) | USA (IRC / IBC) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Standards | CSA O325 | PS-2 |
| Fastening Requirements | Specified in NBC Part 9 tables | IRC R602.3(1), IBC Chapter 23 |
| Structural Wall Bracing | Required in high wind or seismic zones | IRC Section R602.10 or engineered bracing design |
| Energy Efficiency | NBC Part 9 Energy Efficiency Requirements | IECC or State-specific energy codes |
Ideal Applications
New Construction
For homes or buildings targeting energy efficiency and durability
Remodels & Retrofits
Upgrade exterior walls with a fast, effective thermal barrier
Why Builders Choose StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™?
Unlike traditional sheathing and insulation combos — or composite panels that require added weather barriers and taping — Exterior Panel CI™ simplifies the entire building envelope. It’s engineered to reduce steps, materials and install time, while delivering long-term structural and thermal performance.
With extensive experience bonding foam to OSB for subfloor and wall systems, StrctCore delivers the quality, consistency and trust professionals rely on.
Install Instructions
Tools Required
- Framing nailer + compressor
- Framing hammer
- Circular saw & utility knife
- Tape measure, level, speed square
- Pneumatic nail gun (framing nailer)
- Air compressor
- Fasteners approved by applicable building codes or designer of record
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, anti-slip footwear)
Fasteners must penetrate the supporting framing (studs) by at least 1 ½ inches to meet common building code requirements. To achieve this depth, use nails with a minimum overall length of 3 ¼ inches. Fasteners may be installed using either a strip nailer or a coil nailer. Always follow local building code for fastener type and spacing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™?
StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ is a high-performance, factory-laminated exterior wall sheathing panel that combines 7/16″ water-resistant structural OSB with 1-1/8″ expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam insulation. It simplifies and accelerates exterior wall construction by integrating structural support and insulation into a single, easy-to-install panel.
What are the panel dimensions and R-value?
Each panel measures 4 ft x 8 ft and provides an R-value of 5.1, as tested to ASTM C518. This helps meet or exceed evolving energy code requirements.
Does the panel need additional bracing?
In most residential applications, no additional bracing is required beyond StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ when installed correctly. However, always verify with your local building code official and design engineer for project-specific requirements.
Is StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ tested or third-party certified?
StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ is engineered, tested and quality-controlled by a 3rd party lab to meet applicable structural, insulation and code performance standards, but it is not certified.
How long can StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ panels be exposed to weather before finished cladding installation?
StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ panels have a 180-day exposure rating.
What fasteners can be used with the StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ system?
Fasteners approved for regular sheathing can also be used with StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™. Ensure your fastener penetrates your structural studs at the depth required by your local Building Code.
Does the panel require special tools to install?
No. StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ can be cut and fastened using standard tools used for traditional OSB installation. Refer to our installation guide for more details.
Can StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ be used in multi-storey construction?
Yes. It is suitable for residential and light commercial applications, including multi-storey projects, when installed according to code and structural requirements.
Is taping or sealing of seams required?
Yes. To ensure air and moisture control, taping or sealing panel seams with a compatible tape or sealant is highly recommended, particularly in energy-efficient construction. Always follow best practices and code requirements for air or moisture management.
Does StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ serve as a vapor barrier?
No. The sheathing panel is permeable to allow for drying.
Does StruCore Exterior Panel CI™ serve as a weather-resistant barrier (WRB)?
No. While StruCore Exterior Panel CI™ contributes to thermal and structural performance, a separate code-compliant WRB (eg. housewrap or fluid-applied membrane) must be installed over the panel.
Is StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ suitable for use behind cladding systems?
Yes. It serves as a stable base for a wide range of cladding types. Just be sure to follow applicable fastening guidelines.
Can StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ replace traditional exterior sheathing and insulation systems?
Yes. It reduces the need for separate exterior sheathing and foam insulation installation. This speeds up construction, reduces material handling and minimizes labor steps, making it an ideal solution for residential and light commercial applications.
Is the panel structurally rated?
Yes. The 7/16″ OSB component of StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ meets Structural 1 performance requirements, supporting both racking strength and wind load performance in exterior wall applications.
Can I install StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ both horizontally and vertically?
No. StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ panels are engineered to be installed horizontally only.
How does StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ improve energy efficiency?
With its built-in EPS foam layer, StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ delivers continuous exterior insulation across the entire wall surface, reducing thermal bridging to help projects meet increasing energy code requirements.
Are StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ panels made with pressure-treated lumber?
No. StrctCore Exterior Panel CI™ sheathing panels do not go through a chemical, pressure treating process during manufacturing. Our sheathing is made from wood sourced through a system that is third-party certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® procurement standard. It is also Home Innovation NGBS Green Certified for resource efficiency and indoor environmental quality.
What type of adhesive is used to bond OSB and foam?
A high-strength adhesive is used to permanently bond the OSB and EPS foam. Once cured, it resists delamination and prevents foam misalignment during handling or installation.