Jeremy SewallFeb. 18, 2021Last updated: Feb. 18, 2021
We have Douglas fir on our property and would like to use them for a post and beam style home. But is it reasonable to also expect to have a well sealed and insulated wall with such a construction method?
There is no reason why a timber frame house can’t be as well insulated and airtight as a stick frame house. Depending on the wall assembly and method of insulating you choose, a timber frame house can sometimes be a bit of overkill in structure, particularly if you frame walls within it, then it can in a way become something of a simple decoration in a way. Here is our page on wall assemblies that may be a good starting place -
A lot of times timber frames are insulated with SIPs (structural insulated panels), which can be fastened to the outside of the frame. A SIP wall would offer a seamless envelope of insulation, and if you tape the joints properly (see our page on how to do an air barrier properly) then it can also be airtight. The foam within the core of a SIP acts as the vapor barrier. You could also do it with Straw bales, and if it comes to it you can even stick frame between the posts in order to facilitate the insulation and wiring. What had you come up with to date as a wall assembly?
When it comes to choosing a building envelope there are many variables to consider: what climate zone you're building in, performance, durability, health, comf…
Which type of insulation is best for reducing emissions and safely mitigating climate change? There may be a case to be made for EPS rigid insulation. Are foam…
Condensation on windows is a pain in winter and runs down the wall can mean hidden issues in our homes - What causes fogged up windows, how big a problem is it…
Fitting extra insulation to an older home when renovating can be a great idea, but when insulating exterior walls from the outside take care to do it right. Ec…
Tips for preparing your house for winter: how to make your house more efficient to save money on heating, more durable to save disasters & maintenance issues &…
Crawlspaces are becoming rare for new home construction in USA & Canada. If you've got a crawls space with damp, mold, odor & cold issues, here's how to insula…
Top Tips for installing windows & doors to prevent water leaks & air infiltration, helping them perform better & last longer, especially in LEED, Passive House…
There is no reason why a timber frame house can’t be as well insulated and airtight as a stick frame house. Depending on the wall assembly and method of insulating you choose, a timber frame house can sometimes be a bit of overkill in structure, particularly if you frame walls within it, then it can in a way become something of a simple decoration in a way. Here is our page on wall assemblies that may be a good starting place -
How to choose a wall system for home construction
A lot of times timber frames are insulated with SIPs (structural insulated panels), which can be fastened to the outside of the frame. A SIP wall would offer a seamless envelope of insulation, and if you tape the joints properly (see our page on how to do an air barrier properly) then it can also be airtight. The foam within the core of a SIP acts as the vapor barrier. You could also do it with Straw bales, and if it comes to it you can even stick frame between the posts in order to facilitate the insulation and wiring. What had you come up with to date as a wall assembly?