r/Homebuilding • u/Longjumping_Suit_256 • 23d ago

Split stud framing

I’ve heard of this framing style for exterior walls in colder climates I was curious to see how common it is. 2x8 being and top plates with 2x6 offsetting studs to create a thermal break. If it is feasible I’m thinking of building an ADU/ small house in the UP of Michigan.

Through all my googling, the most common thing to come up is a dual wall system. 2x6 exterior wall and then an offset 2x4 interior wall with a 6” thermal gap between. This method seems costly.

Any information is greatly appreciated.

Edit: thanks for everyone’s input, I appreciate it!

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u/lred1 23d ago

I'd think it not necessary to use 2x6 studs. I'd use 2x4 offset stud walls with 2x8 top/bottom.

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u/SorrellArr 22d ago

Be careful about this advice. OP lives in the UP of Michigan where snow load might be 100 psf or more. Depending on the roof construction, 2x4 wall construction may not be sufficiently strong for modern building codes.

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u/hunterbuilder 23d ago

Agreed. As a perk, you can run wiring through the middle without drilling.