Advanced Framing

Advanced framing, also known as optimum value engineering (OVE), is a system of construction framing techniques designed to optimize material usage and increase energy efficiency.

Structures built with advanced framing techniques are more resource efficient and offer more space for cavity insulation than similar structures built with conventional framing.

Advanced framing replaces the structural redundancies of conventional framing with a system that places framing members only where they are needed.

Conventional framing typically uses 2x4 or 2x6 wood framing spaced 16 inches on center with double top plates, three-stud corners and double or triple headers.

Advanced framing uses 2x6 studs spaced 24 inches on center with single top plates, two-stud corners and single headers, placing framing members only where they are needed.

Building with advanced framing techniques can create structures that are more cost-effective and energy-efficient, without compromising structural integrity.

When properly constructed, walls built with advanced framing that are fully sheathed with wood structural panels provide the structure and strength required to safely withstand design loads.

Wood structural panels have the most flexibility within the building code for 24 inch on center wall framing, providing solutions to code limitations that restrict most other wall bracing materials.

When builders align the vertical framing members under the roof trusses or rafters, a direct load path is created where compression and tension loads are directly transferred through the vertical framing members. The result is a stronger structure with fewer framing members subject to stresses.

Advanced framing is less expensive than conventional framing because it is more resource efficient. By optimizing framing material use, the builder can cut floor and wall framing material costs by up to 30%, while reducing framing installation labor.

Wood frame construction that uses advanced framing techniques optimizes material usage and reduces construction waste.

Many advanced framing construction techniques may be eligible for points under the leading green building standards and guidelines, such as the National Green Building Standard (ICC 700-2008) and the U.S. Green Building Council LEED for Homes Rating System.

Advanced framing is a proven method for cost-effectively meeting energy code requirements by maximizing space for cavity insulation and minimizing the potential for insulation voids. The method can provide significant energy performance benefits for homeowners and cost savings for builders.

Walls built with 2x6 wood framing spaced 24 inches on center have deeper, wide insulation cavities than conventional 2x4 framing spaced 16 inches on center. Increasing the amount of insulation inside the wall improves the whole wall R-value (resistance to heat flow).

Installing fewer framing members makes it easier for the builder to apply complete insulation coverage and achieve a tighter building envelope.