Traditional vs Advanced Framing - Details

Summary

In this episode of the Build Show, the focus is on advanced framing techniques, also known as smart framing, for constructing energy-efficient homes. Architect Steve Basic explains the decision-making process behind framing choices that align with overall project goals. The discussion covers various framing details, such as 24-inch on-center framing, header pockets, and the use of double top plates. Emphasis is placed on the importance of insulation, with strategies like using a slider to elevate the heel height for better insulation and combining closed-cell foam with blown fiberglass. The goal is to demonstrate that even a commodity house can be built with high performance and energy efficiency without excessive costs.

Takeaways

• 🏠 **Advanced Framing vs. Traditional Framing**: The discussion differentiates between advanced framing and traditional framing, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right framing technique for a specific project.
• 👷‍♂️ **Smart Framing**: Framing is considered a crucial system within a house, and 'advanced framing' is referred to as 'smart framing' to highlight the intelligent design choices made from the start.
• 🔍 **24-inch On-Center Framing**: The project uses a 24-inch on-center framing system, which aligns with the overall design and functionality of the house.
• 🏗️ **Clear Spanning with Trusses**: The garage features clear spanning trusses, eliminating the need for posts within the garage for a more open space.
• 🧱 **Outside Wall Framing**: The decision to frame the outside walls first and then add the roof allows for quick enclosure and weather protection, facilitating indoor work in a controlled environment.
• 🛠️ **Efficient Header Construction**: The use of appropriately-sized headers and header plates ensures a flush finish for trim and windows, streamlining the construction process.
• 🔝 **Insulation Strategy**: The script discusses the importance of insulation, particularly the use of a 'slider' to elevate the heel height for better insulation above the wall.
• 📏 **Double Top Plates**: Despite advanced framing often advocating for single top plates, the project uses double top plates for ease of construction and to maintain a traditional framing mindset.
• 🛑 **Sheathing Breaks for Accessibility**: The decision to break sheathing at a convenient level ensures that work is done efficiently and safely, without the need for ladders or scaffolding.
• 🔩 **Header Hangers for Support**: The use of header hangers provides additional support for headers, especially in window openings that would otherwise require double jacks.

Q & A

What is the main difference between advanced framing and traditional framing discussed in the script?

Advanced framing, also referred to as smart framing, focuses on making decisions appropriate for the overall project rather than just saving lumber or money. It's about designing the framing system from the start that best suits the house's overall package.

Why did the architect choose a 24-inch on-center framing system for the house?

The 24-inch on-center framing system was chosen because it worked well with the overall system package of the house, allowing for clear spanning of the garage without posts and bringing the entire house load down to the outside walls.

What is the significance of having no posts in the garage and house?

Having no posts in the garage and house allows for a clear span and more open space. It also means the entire house load is brought down to the outside walls, which is beneficial for the structural integrity and design of the building.

Why is the framing referred to as 'advanced' or 'smart' framing in the context of this project?

The framing is referred to as 'advanced' or 'smart' because it's not just about saving material; it's about making thoughtful decisions that align with the overall design and structural needs of the house, creating a more efficient and effective building system.

How does the decision to frame the outside walls first impact the construction process?

Framing the outside walls first allows the house to be closed in quickly with a roof and sheathing, making it weather-tight. This creates a controlled environment for further construction work, similar to a factory setting, which can improve the quality and efficiency of the construction process.

What is the purpose of the header pocket mentioned in the script?

The header pocket is created by using an appropriately-sized header with a 2 by 6 plate underneath. This setup allows for the trim and other finishing elements to sit flush with the header, ensuring a neat and professional finish.

Why is the 'slider' used in the trusses above the garage?

The 'slider' is used to elevate the heel height of the trusses, allowing for more insulation to be added above the wall plate. This increases the insulation value and overall energy efficiency of the wall system.

What is the reasoning behind using double top plates in the framing?

Double top plates are used to help straighten out the walls and maintain a traditional framing approach that the framer is comfortable with. This also allows for better alignment and finishing of the walls without compromising the thermal efficiency of the house.

How does the placement of the sheathing breaks impact the construction process?

Placing the sheathing breaks in the middle of the wall allows the framers to work at a comfortable level without the need for ladders or scaffolding. This makes the construction process more efficient and safer for the workers.

What is the strategy for insulation in the walls of this house?

The strategy involves using an inch of closed cell foam on the inside and filling the rest of the cavity with blown fiberglass. The key focus is on the insulation on the outside of the house, as it significantly improves the R-value of both the cavity and the framing.

Why is it important to have the exterior sheathing on the outside of the house?

Having the exterior sheathing on the outside of the house improves the thermal efficiency by providing a continuous insulation layer without any breakage. This effectively more than doubles the R-value at the opaque framing areas, enhancing the overall energy performance of the house.