Advanced Wood Framing and Energy-Efficient Construction

As energy codes become more strict, builders and designers are seeking options for energy-efficient construction that maintain strength, durability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Advanced framing is a system of construction framing techniques designed to optimize material usage and increase energy efficiency. The primary purpose for most advanced framing techniques is to eliminate unnecessary framing members, reducing construction costs, while simultaneously minimizing thermal bridging and increasing insulation volume in the thermal envelope of the building. This presentation explores the role of structural engineers in the quest for advanced framing, discusses the related Energy Code requirements, and discusses new technologies that will help Structural Engineers serve an active role.