Insulated Studs? This is a BIG Innovation in Framing!
Foreword by Ian Thompson, Editor
Thermal Studs, or TSTUD as they’re more commonly known in the USA, are just over five years old now and have already won several awards for their innovation and performance. This single product effectively addresses five major construction concerns for 2×6 framing: it improves thermal breaks, enhances structural strength, reduces sound transmission, and meets hurricane and seismic compliance standards.
As of August 2024, I understand that Thermal Studs are currently only sold in the USA and Canada. However, this doesn’t prevent potential purchasers from importing the product.
Thermal Studs Video Summary:
I want to share something truly innovative that I came across in the realm of house construction – a game-changing product known as the Thermal Stud, or TSTUD. This incredible innovation is redefining the way we construct homes and I couldn’t wait to share it with all of you.
For more than a century, our primary method of building houses in North America has been using traditional lumber framing. But as we’ve become more conscious of energy efficiency and sustainability, it’s clear that this method has some considerable drawbacks. One of the most significant issues is the thermal inefficiency created by the large thermal bridges in the walls, which can lead to heat loss and increased energy consumption.
This is where the marvel of TSTUDS comes in. These thermal studs are a brand new type of framing that effectively resolves the issue of thermal bridging. Traditional 2×6 lumber, though strong, provides an insulation value of only R6.8. In contrast, TSTUDS offer an impressive insulation value of R20. This is made possible by the unique design of TSTUDS – essentially a truss made of a 2×3 on both sides, structurally connected with dowels, and filled with closed-cell spray foam. The result is a stud that doesn’t conduct heat, eliminating the need for additional exterior insulation.
I had the chance to tour a house that had been framed entirely using TSTUDS, and the advantages of this system were evident. The TSTUDS are as deep as a standard 2×6, but they’re wider, consisting of a 2×3, another 2×3, and dowel rods. They’re delivered to the construction site already filled with foam, ready to be incorporated into the build. The TSTUDS are used to frame the entire house, including headers, thereby negating the need for traditional lumber headers and the associated sandwich insulation that typically needs to be built on-site.
The TSTUD system is not just about energy efficiency and thermal performance, it also addresses practical issues on the construction site. According to Jesse, the builder of the TSTUD house I visited, TSTUDS have resulted in fewer call-backs due to reduced sheetrock settling and nail pops. This is a testament to the stability of the TSTUDS and their superior performance in different climates.
The inventor of the TSTUD, Brian Iverson, also shared some fascinating insights about his product. For starters, TSTUDS are hurricane and seismic compliant, which speaks volumes about their strength and resilience. Additionally, TSTUDS offer various insulation options and can be ordered directly from the company or through a stocking dealer.
The cost increase for using TSTUDS as compared to traditional lumber is minimal, around $1000 to $1500 for an average 2500 square-foot house. Considering the energy savings, reduced waste, and increased speed of construction due to the lightness and strength of TSTUDS, it’s clear that this is an investment well worth making.
In conclusion, TSTUDS are a revolutionary innovation in the construction industry, offering superior insulation, structural benefits, and cost-effectiveness over traditional lumber. This is an exciting development for anyone interested in energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices. By incorporating TSTUDS into your next build, you can significantly enhance the thermal performance of your home while also contributing to a more sustainable future.
Related:
3 Tips for a Better Basement BUILD (Insulation, Waterproofing, & Framing)
External Youtube link: How to Stop Thermal Bridging with TStuds!
