Wall Framing

Ladder Blocking: Framing Technique for Even More Insulation

January 28, 2012 by Anne

Ladder framing or 'ladder panels' creates space for more insulation while reducing the amount of wood needed to frame the home. By using less wood but keeping the structural integrity of the frame, we are using what engineers call "OVE," or "optimal value engineering."

Advanced Framing: Two Stud Corners

January 15, 2012 by Anne

Here's another classic 'Advanced Framing' technique: building corners with only two studs, or sometimes three to keep the structural engineer happy in earthquake and hurrican zones. This technique reduces framing lumber and also allows for more insulation at the building corner (a space that usually goes un-insulated.)

Advanced Framing: Less Wood, More Insulation

February 19, 2011 by Anne

Advanced Framing, sometimes called Optimum Value Engineering (OVE), refers to framing techniques designed to reduce the amount of lumber used and the waste generated in the construction of a wood-framed house while maximizing the energy efficiency of the wall assemblies by making more room for high R-value insulation of R3 to R6 per inch instead of wood at only about R1 per inch.