Description

The report examines the areas for potential saving in timber framing volumes in new housing. The components considered are studs, dwants, top plates and internal walls. While some savings are available using the framing standard NZS 3604, the cost savings are quite small. A case is made that the reverse should apply and that designers should consider using larger sizes than 90 mm studs to improve the installation and performance of wall insulation. The project also examined various timber flooring arrangements that are feasible with NZS 3604, including costs and how they compare with concrete flooring.