Advanced framing (2×6 @ 24 in o.c. + insulated headers + ladder T-intersections) OR equivalent continuous-insulation strategy
DOE ZERH §Advanced framing OR equivalent — reduced thermal bridgingDescription
ZERH requires thermal-bridging mitigation, accomplished EITHER by advanced framing (Optimum Value Engineering, OVE): 2×6 studs at 24 in o.c.; single top plate (with engineered T-intersection ladder framing); insulated headers (using R-9+ rigid foam between framing members); two-stud corners (not three) with ladder backing for drywall; right-sizing of jack/king studs (eliminating over-framing); OR exterior continuous insulation of ≥ R-5 over a conventional framed wall to break thermal bridging at the studs.
Why this exists
Studs are the thermal-bridging weak point in framed walls — they account for 20-25% of the wall area but transmit heat at ~R-5 vs. the insulated cavity's R-19 to R-23. Either advanced framing OR exterior CI eliminates the bridge. Architects designing ZERH should specify ONE strategy on the wall section and stick to it — mixing them creates assembly inconsistency.
Categories
Source
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Continuous load path from roof to foundation · HUD RSDG §2.4
- Residential structural reliability targets 1-in-100 to 1-in-1000 annual probability of failure · HUD RSDG §2.5
- Residential floor live load: 40 psf minimum (30 psf sleeping rooms) · HUD RSDG §3.4
- Wind load design uses ASCE 7 basic wind speed for the locality · HUD RSDG §3.6
- Ground snow load for Virginia: 25 psf eastern, up to 40 psf western mountains · HUD RSDG §3.7
Last reviewed 2026-05-15.