The Basics … and Beyond
Optimum value engineering and advanced framing techniques have the potential to save materials, labor, and energy—even more so if employed as a system that includes the following:
• 2-foot module layouts Reduces labor and materials waste because panels and other products made in 2-foot dimensions (e.g., 4x8 sheathing) require fewer cuts, if any, to install over 24-inch on-center (e.g., 2-foot modular) framing and trusses; most critical for the perimeter frame, if not all wall framing; a simple building shape/footprint helps.
• 2x6 exterior walls spaced 24 inches o/c The same board footage as 2x4 walls at 16 inches o/c, but using one-third the sticks, reducing labor costs, and creating larger insulation cavities; use 2x4 at 24 inches o/c for single-story homes; wider spacing may be limited in seismic and high-wind areas.
• Stack framing Align roof trusses, wall framing, and floor joists to reduce or eliminate headers, blocking, and other excessive framing materials.
• Single top-plate Another benefit of stacked framing, as the plate no longer carries vertical loads; for a typical house, the practice may eliminate up to 70 studs (about $120); use steel plates or straps to maintain stability.
• Minimize cripple studs Use only what you need, if any, to fasten wallboard or paneling under an opening.
• Double rim joists Transfer point loads down the exterior walls and eliminate headers by doubling up rim joists for the second-floor platform.
• Ladder blocking at T intersections Use scrap lumber to provide nailers on the inside edge of the cavity where interior partition walls meet an exterior wall; insulate the rest of the cavity behind the blocking.
• Slabs Use these instead of framing a floor over a basement or crawl space.
• Waste not Accounting for every stick and panel, reducing the overall amount of lumber (or at least your waste factor), and reusing scrap pieces can significantly lower dumpster rental and tipping fees; look for wood recycling outlets for pieces you can’t use.
Learn More
• Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse; 800-363-3732; www.eren.dow.gov/buildings
• Energy Star, Technology Fact Sheet: Advanced Framing; www.energystar.gov/ia/home_improvement/home_solutions/doeframing.pdf
• Forest Products Laboratory, USDA; 608-231-9200; Wood-framed House Construction, Chapter 3, www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/usda/ah73/ah73chapter3.pdf
• Builder’s Guide, Energy Efficient Building Association; 651-268-7585; www.eeba.org
• NAHB Research Center/ToolBase Services; 800-898-2842; www.nahbrc.org and www.toolbase.org