Wall And Roof Systems For Timber Frame Buildings

Stick frame walls and structural insulated panels are the two primary enclosure systems used for timber frame structures. In addition to these, there are a few other less commonly used options, such as insulated metal panels, factory-built penalized wall systems, and ICF concrete walls.

Stick Frame Wall System

The typical method of enclosing a timber frame structure involves using traditional stick walls and roof construction. Is this the optimal approach? The answer varies. For intricate buildings with numerous corners, where the timber frame serves more as a design feature than a structural component, this may indeed be the most suitable method.

Pros:

There is an army of stick framers out there that know how to do it.
Material is available everywhere.
No changes for the sub- trades, everyone knows what to do.

Cons:

It is a layered system, it needs many layers to perform.
Performs only well if all trades work to a high standard.
High labour cost, time consuming.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIP's)

Structural insulated panels consist of a block of insulation, mostly expanded polystyrene (EPS) with OSB panels on both sides. The continuous layer of insulation provides higher performance then a stick build wall.

Pros:

Continuous insulation layer, less thermal bridging.
Less air leaks.
The Panels can span considerable distances without supports.
It is a proven system with many installers available.

Cons:

It is still a layered system, it needs a rain screen and vented roof system to perform well.
Slightly higher cost then stick building.

Insulated Metal Panels (IMP)

Insulated metal panel Insulated metal panels are around sins the 80th. everyone knows it, garage doors are just that. It,s relatively new that they are produced in larger sizes.
Most panels for wall enclosures are around 40 inch wide and up to 40 feet long. IMP's are mainly used to enclose metal buildings. Most new metal buildings are enclosed in part or in full with insulated metal panels. They are not jet utilized much by the timber framing industry but this will change over time. The advantages are just overwhelming. They are the best solution where a metal finish is desired inside and out.

Pros:

Continuous insulation layer, no thermal bridging.
Finished surface inside and out, no need for drywall or siding.
Low cost.
Fast installation.
The Panels can span considerable distances without supports.

Cons:

It's a finished product inside and out, easy to damage during installation, not easy to repair.
Need to order spares.