Las paredes de 2x6 logran múltiples objetivos

En muchos climas, los códigos obligan a la construcción residencial a utilizar paredes de 2x6 y un aislamiento más denso, como la lana mineral. Al mismo tiempo, muchas viviendas tienen una línea de lote cero que obliga a una resistencia al fuego adicional cuando se encuentran a 10' o menos de una vivienda adyacente. Si unimos esos factores a la necesidad de un muro estructural que pueda soportar fuerzas sísmicas y de vientos fuertes, tenemos serias exigencias para una pared.

The Intertek-listed LPB/WPPS 60-01 2x6 exterior load-bearing wall assembly helps meet these demands and achieves three major objectives: fire code compliance, sound reduction and higher R-values than most 2x4 assemblies. According to a recent study by Home Innovation Research Labs, more than 40 percent of all exterior walls in new single-family construction now use 2x6 assemblies—more than a 10 percent increase in the last decade.

This assembly uses LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated Sheathing to meet fire codes for zero-lot-line construction where walls are close to the property line. A 2x6 stud creates 5½-inch wall depth to accommodate more insulation. The extra space offers many advantages. Using mineral wool insulation in a 2x6 wall assembly increases the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating compared to standard fiberglass insulation. This means that less outdoor noise penetrates the wall. Plus the additional mineral wool insulation in 2x6 assemblies can also achieve an R-value of 23 compared to the typical R-15 in 2x4 walls.

Installing 2x6 exterior walls makes a lot of sense in cold-weather regions and urban infill applications. Homeowners get the triple benefit of fire code compliance, greater energy savings and less outdoor noise intruding into the living space.

Find out where you can purchase fire-rated OSB sheathing for 2x6 wall assemblies.