Optimum Value Engineering

[jackellis]

It's a collection of methods for framing homes that is supposed to use less lumber and labor and permit better insulation without compromising structural integrity. Among other things, they suggest putting studs on 24 inch centers, using a method for multi-story construction that has all of the studs lined up, using 3 studs in each corner of a wall instead of four, and using a single top plate instead of doubling them up.

I'm wondering whether anyone has ever built (by themselves or using a contractor) a home this way and I'm also interested in opinions on the advantages and drawbacks. The house will be in earthquake country and it's not clear the local building codes will allow it, but we're looking for ways to eliminate unnecessary materials and labor without sacrificing quality.

FWIW, we've been told to use $325/square foot as a rule of thumb for construction costs so we're trying to figure out where we can economize (which is not the same as trying to build cheap).

[Uncle Cracker]

I would imagine that stud spacing is prescribed by building codes, and is not a matter for personal discretion. Aside from this, I also can't see doing anything that does not err to the side of caution.

[LinuxRandal]

See if your article has any contact information. I saw what I believe may have been the same article a couple of years? ago, and there was some organization, that you could contact. They were going to help with codes, etc issues. It was supposed to be as strong, because the loads used the sheathing as part of the framing, instead of just as a mounting point for siding (the jist of the article I remember).

I know around here, alternative building methods, can be done, but may require more time and specialists, as I would like to, if I ever built, build a Monolithic Dome.

[mschrank]

You might check out the "Rough Framing" topic at JLC Online. Note that this is a "pros only" sight: they don't mind diy'ers lurking, but they'll harass you with no mercy if you have the gall to post a question.

They recently debated the 16" OC vs 24" OC question, plus there's a lot of other banter relevant to your questions.

Also, there's a video on the site titled "Green Framing" that might be of interest.

[pelligrini]

I've seen 24" spacing used and there are many ways to do corners, but I've never really seen a single top plate. I think that would end up costing more even if a single plate were allowed. Using a standard stud would throw off ceiling heights and in turn sheathing patterns.

Most codes have a minumum standard called out for framing, and most do allow for a different type if it is engineered. With some of the engineered framing solutions come specific nailing patterns and materials.

[Hellrazor]

You need to get a code book for your area to see if it is feasible or not.