March 1996
This Insulating Steel-Framed Homes fact sheet acts as a guide for answering questions that builders and others may have about steel framing, specifically about meeting energy code requirements. The approach for insulating steel-framed homes so they comply with energy codes may be somewhat different than the approach for building with other framing materials. For example, because steel studs are usually C-sections, the cavity is wider than wood framing. As a result, it is important to select batts that are full width or to use spray-applied insulation that completely fills the cavity. The fact sheet reviews the American Iron and Steel Institute’s Thermal Design Guide, which provides suggested R-values for insulating steel-framed homes to meet the CABO Model Energy Code, and includes tables for cavity insulation products and foam sheathing products for steel framing.
Prepared by:
NAHB Research Center
2 pages