Alternative Framing

Advanced Framing

• The term "advanced framing" refers to wall framing techniques that use standard dimensional lumber in unique ways. While conventional stud walls primarily consist of 2-by-4 boards, walls constructed with advanced framing methods utilize larger boards, such as 2-by-6-inch or 2-by-8-inch boards, or staggered combinations of both small and large boards. Larger boards allow wider spacing between studs, often reduce labor requirements and increase the amount of space available for insulation. However, advanced framing sometimes requires more lumber than conventional framing.

Steel Framing

• Steel studs are a common alternative to conventional 2-by-4 lumber studs. Steel stud sizes roughly approximate lumber stud sizes. Unlike lumber framing members, which naturally suffer from warping, splitting, twisting and blemishes, steel framing members are manufactured products, structurally stable and consistent in size. Metal framing is impervious to rot and insect damage. However, metal framing materials cost substantially more than conventional lumber framing materials.

Insulating Concrete Forms

• Usually composed of concrete and foam granules, insulating concrete forms, or ICF, are building blocks that literally stack up to form a structure's walls. Although design specifics vary according to manufacturer, all types ICF units have a hollow interior cavity. After stacking the ICF units, builders insert reinforcing steel and pour concrete into the cavity. Standard interior and exterior wall finishes apply directly to the ICF unit, such as drywall and stucco. Although more expensive than stud wall framing, building with ICF units creates a stronger and more insulated structure.

Green Alternatives

• Increasingly accepted among building authorities, common green framing materials include straw bales and cob. Straw-bale builders typically sandwich the blocks of hay between thin stud walls. The term "cob" refers to an traditional earthen mixture, usually loose straw and clay. Layered by hand, cob walls form surprisingly strong, naturally insulated walls. Although sometimes superior to standard framing materials, builders must gain special approval from building authorities to use unconventional building materials.