Energy Efficient Framing Techniques:
2 x 6 Exterior Walls
 We chose 2x6 exterior walls fully covered with OSB. This obviously costs more than 2x4 exterior walls, but we chose the additional up front cost. The thicker walls allow for extra blown-in insulation for greater R-value and the OSB sheathing gives the house additional strength.
Where the walls met the concrete slab we again used OSI Polyurethane Construction Sealant to stop drafts and to be a structural part of the house since it is so strong.


The 2x6 exterior walls means the headers could also have extra insulation.
Two 2x10 panels were installed over windows and exterior doors with a 1" Styrofoam radiant barrier sandwiched between and a ½" dead air space.
The dead air provides the insulative value.

 
Headers

Special framing techniques

 Exterior corners are built to allow room for insulation to be blown all the way into the corner and completely seal back behind the studs. Minor up front costs in framing will be offset by the long-term energy savings.
Since we do live in North Carolina where hurricanes and tornados can occur, for less than $20 we chose to use hurricane brackets on every rafter instead of just installing them to meet code.
hurricane brackets

Building partners:

  • Framing - Marc Lockley, 393 Horton Road, Goldston, NC 27252
    Tel: 919 842 7021

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