Load paths must line up

The main principle of advanced framing is to eliminate unnecessary lumber. For example, double top plates can be eliminated as long as each joist and rafter is lined up with a stud and partition walls are tied into intersecting walls with steel strapping.

Lining up framing materials in this way may require the designer to draw up a framing plan for each wall and floor.

Use more engineered wood

OSB, finger-jointed studs, laminated veneer lumber, and I-joists are all examples of reliable building products that can replace conventional plywood and large-dimension sawn lumber. Pressure on old-growth forests is reduced, waste is reduced, and better performance often results.

Omit needless wood

Using two studs instead of four in outside corners saves a lot of lumber. Instead of using the same header size over all openings, engineer each header for the load it will actually carry. Headers in non-bearing walls can be eliminated entirely.

Consider insulating sheathing

Building scientists recommend replacing OSB or plywood sheathing with rigid foam insulation. This reduces the transfer of heat and cold through wood framing, a phenomenon known as thermal bridging. Diagonal bracing and shear panels can provide racking strength.

FURTHER READING The Pros and Cons of Advanced Framing BuildingScience.com: Using Wood…