Any ideas on the best way to provide a thermal break when using steel studs?
user-773740
| Posted in Energy Efficiency and Durability on
The structure is in Charlotte, NC. The wall assembly is curently drawn as 4″ metal studs with Icynene insulation, 7/16″ OSB fastened directly to the studs, 2 layers of felt and siding.
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Replies
Doug,
The thermal bridging through steel studs is so great that it's a waste of time to insulate between steel studs.
Install rigid insulation on the exterior of the OSB — the thicker, the better. Of course, at a bare minimum, you'll have to meet the minimum R-values required by your local code.
More information can be found in the GBA encyclopedia:
https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/green-basics/steel-studs
Yes,
Do NOT use Steel Studs unless you plan to use 100% Outsulation.
Doug,
I posted before I saw Martin's post.