Structural Wall Systems

Structural Wall Systems

Some types of structural wall systems tend to be more predominant in certain parts of the country, where others are just gaining respect within the building community. There's more than one way to build a good wall, however it must be done properly for it to last. However, to get down to the bottom line...

...It is up to you and your mate to do your research to find which one will best suit your home.

It is also "WISE" to consult with a well established quality professional to find out which structural wall system would be right for your home's location and budget.

Following are some of several different types of structural wall systems that are available to home owner's today. Some are pre-manufactured in controlled environments, where others are constructed on site. Each structural wall system, old or new, varies widely in how your home is constructed.

Adobe Brick-A mixture of adobe clay, sand, straw and water formed into bricks and let dry over a long period of time. The bricks are then laid to form a 1 ft. to 2 ft. thick wall followed by a protective coating to seal the wall.

This is a time consuming, but excellent do-it-yourself project for those on a very limited budget, or you may purchase pre-made adobe bricks.

http://www.zetatalk.com/shelter/tshlt04c.htm

http://www.earthbuilding.com/

Concrete Block-Get rid of that picture in your mind if your are thinking about those ugly block homes built in the 60's and 70's. Today's concrete block homes are fabulous looking and are said to be much more durable. If you didn't know better you would swear they were anything but block.

http://www.readymix.org/

Earth-Sheltered Homes-This type of home is sometimes referred to as a "Berm" home. Built within the ground with only the south side of the structure exposed, it is most often constructed of poured concrete. This home is often very energy efficient and cost effective.

http://www.eren.doe.gov/erec/factsheets/earth.html

Structural "Glass Curtain" Structural Wall System-Is basically a wall section made of glass that reaches from the floor to the ceiling.

This "glass curtain" is ideal for those persons wanting to capture picturesque views outside their homes. Glass structural wall systems have improved immensely over the years, but be careful and choose the right one for your home.

http://irc.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/pubs/bsi/82-3_e.html

Log-At times the authentic solid log building system continues to be built, but the newer half-log insulated structural wall system is said to be far more energy efficient than its predecessor.

If you have been longing for a log home there are e-gads of choices available to you, therefore "BeWISE".

http://www.loghomes.org/

http://www.loghomebuilders.org/

Post and Beam-A framed construction of widely spaced vertical posts and horizontal beams that supply a strong structural support for the home.

The walls are then enclosed by framed studs, insulated, and then surfaced with siding. On the interior of the home, the posts and beams are left exposed for one to see their beauty.

http://www.timberframingmagazine.com/

Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) Walls-The type of system used to build an ICF basement can also be used to build the above ground walls of a home.

Its premise is that its insulation value and wall strength is superior to a stick framed home.

http://www.forms.org/?act=typesoficf

To find a company in your area that supplies insulated concrete forms, go to: http://ncma.org/map_pages/state_finder.cfm

Steel Frame-This system replaces wood framing materials.

The premise of this type of structural wall system is that it is more durable and impervious to termites, fires, and earthquakes as well as being less costly to build than a stick-framed home.

http://www.excalibursteel.com/processwall.htm

http://www.steelframingalliance.com/

Stick Frame-Dimensional lumber 2 x 4, or 2 x 6 studs framed to form the skeleton of a wall structure.

The exterior of the framed wall has an approved sheathing panels applied over the studs followed by a moisture resistant barrier applied directly over the sheathing.

The wall is then insulated between the studs and finished off with both exterior and interior surface materials.

http://www.slcc.edu/tech/techsp/arch/courses/ARCH1210/Photos/studs.jpg

http://www.slcc.edu/tech/techsp/arch/courses/ARCH1210/Photos/Photos.htm#Wall

Structural Insulated Panels-Pre-fabricated wall panels manufactured in a controlled environment; delivered to your building site ready to set on your foundation. At least one manufacturer claims that this wall system is "Twice as strong as a 2x4 wall..."

Straw Bale-actual bales of straw are stacked up to fill in the spaces between the load bearing exterior wall frame, a wire mesh material is applied over the wall structure then finished off with a concrete type masonry substance.