Home Construction Question

[Raspy]

There's a lot more room in a 2 X 6 wall for insulation, wire, piping and all the stuff that gets crammed in walls these days. Plus it's stronger. I think 2 X 6 is R19 and 2 X 4 is R13.

By the time you drill a 2 1/2 inch hole to run a 2" pipe through a 2 X 4 there's not much left.

I like 2 X 6 much better, but it's not required by code in most cases unless there is a special structural need or an insulation requirement.

 

[handirifle]

There's a lot more room in a 2 X 6 wall for insulation, wire, piping and all the stuff that gets crammed in walls these days. Plus it's stronger. I think 2 X 6 is R19 and 2 X 4 is R13.

By the time you drill a 2 1/2 inch hole to run a 2" pipe through a 2 X 4 there's not much left.

I like 2 X 6 much better, but it's not required by code in most cases unless there is a special structural need or an insulation requirement.

IF the insulation is on the OUTSIDE of the wall, and nothing between the studs, then the contractor is correct, there is little "R" value gain from the larger hollow space. Now, if you added fiberglass between the studs, it becomes much better.

Other than that, the 2x6's are stronger and do make it easier to plumb and wire. Usually adding 2'6s does not add a lot of $$$ to the overall cost.

 

[wedge40]

I think most states are now requiring 2x6 as a minimum. My house doesn't have osb on the exterior. I've alway wanted to pull the siding, put up osb and wrap the house. This will help eliminate a lot of leaks I have.


Wedge

 

[tractorshopper]

My builder is using 1/2" OSB on all exterior sheething prior to finishing with Hardee and stacked stone accents. 2X4 framing on the exterior walls though. I may need to ask him about 2X6 framing. That's kind of rare around here. Don't personally know anyone that has a house with 2X6 exterior wall framing.