Traditional wood framing in homes, with studs, headers, and plates, often leads to thermal bridging, allowing heat to escape easily and increasing heating and cooling costs. However, US Engineered Wood has developed a revolutionary solution called TStuds, that significantly improve the energy efficiency of buildings.
T-Stud Members for Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Thermal bridging occurs when heat travels through the studs in a building. TStuds eliminate this issue by incorporating a gap between the flange and spline, approximately 1.5 inches wide. This gap, along with wooden dowels forming a web-like pattern, effectively stops the flow of heat. TStuds come in various sizes, such as the 2×3 flange and 2×3 spline, and the 2×3 flange and 2×4 spline, suitable for replacing wall studs, top plates, bottom plates, king, jack, and cripple studs. They can be installed in either direction, offering flexibility based on specific construction needs.
Improved R-Value
The R-value or thermal insulation of TStuds is superior to traditional wood studs. Traditional walls typically contain about 25% wood studs, leading to a reduced R-value in the entire wall assembly. In contrast, TStuds create a 96% complete thermal break, significantly enhancing insulation. When combined with closed-cell spray foam and R20 insulation in the rest of the wall, the assembly can act as an R20 wall, resulting in improved energy efficiency.
Moisture and Strength Advantages
Traditional wood studs can lead to moisture accumulation and mold growth, compromising indoor air quality and structural integrity. TStuds, acting as thermal breaks, minimize moisture accumulation and reduce the risk of mold formation. Moreover, TStuds are four times stronger than traditional studs, capable of supporting up to 8,600 pounds. Their unique orientation ensures they don’t deflect or fail in the same way as traditional studs, enhancing their load-bearing capabilities.
Utility-Friendly and Easy Installation
TStuds offer additional advantages, such as ample space for running utilities. With gaps between the studs, it becomes easier to route pex pipes and electrical wires without compromising the structural integrity of the wall. Installation of TStuds is similar to traditional studs, requiring minimal adjustments. The only difference lies in securing TStuds to the ground, which involves using a wide plate to transfer hold-down power effectively.
Cost and Energy Savings
Although TStuds are more expensive than traditional studs, their benefits outweigh the costs. The reduction in waste and the need for fewer studs offsets the initial expense. Moreover, TStuds can be spaced at 24-inch intervals rather than 16 inches, further reducing material usage. Their lighter weight not only lowers the cost of other framing members but also eases the load on the foundation. The biggest advantage, however, lies in the reduced energy consumption of HVAC systems and other appliances. By eliminating thermal bridging, TStuds keep the interior space unaffected by exterior temperatures, leading to lower energy consumption and a reduced carbon footprint.
Conclusion
TStuds present an innovative and effective solution to combat thermal bridging and enhance energy efficiency in buildings. While they may not be ideal for tight enclosures with limited space, TStuds raise awareness about thermal bridging issues and the need to address them. In conjunction with TStuds, other methods like continuous exterior insulation or insulation strips can further create a thermal break in walls. Embracing TStuds can significantly contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient construction industry.
Sources
https://www.echotape.com/blog/why-thermal-bridging-and-thermal-breaks-matter-in-construction/
