Replies

1. 
   mark122 | Oct 12, 2015 05:59pm | #1

   You should use the best system you can afford. 

   There are many reason why one would opt to go for 2x6 framing on exterior wall, but if the size of the fiberglass your going to put in there is the main factor determining that, theres a better way (since you seem to be a fine homebuilding follower). 

   The most effective way of sealing up your house is closed cell insulation. If foaming with closed cell soley is not an option, look at flash and batt options.

   if your on a slab, exterior walls and attic, if not on a slab the bottom side of your floor deck as well. 

   whichever way you go, know that these are the decisions many skimp on when they should be spending every penny they can afford on it. get this phase down right, and all your systems will work less, more efficiently and will save you money in the long run.

2. 
   DanH | Oct 12, 2015 07:08pm | #2

   There are several different "systems" from the conventional stud/sheathing/siding with fiberglass insulation and maybe a housewrap, to fancy systems with foam insulation, special high-tech sheathing, etc.  Pick one system (that you understand and trust) and stick with it -- don't mix and match between different schemes (unless you've carefully analyzed the consequences).

   Using stone part of the way adds some additional complications, so make sure any scheme you use is OK with stone.  And make sure you've studied up on how to provide for drainage behind the stone.

   Re the bead of caulk, there is no real need to prevent air from migrating between adjacent stud cavities -- they're all at the same temperature.  What you want to prevent is any leakage through the sheating.  This is primarily a matter of being obsessive about getting a good air seal around windows and other exterior openings.

   At least you're far enough south that many of the concerns about condensation within the walls do not come into play.

1. 
   SparkyLamb | Oct 12, 2015 07:31pm | #3

   Exterior walls

   Thank you very much for your input. I understand the importance of insulation, and a good water/air barrier which is why I am trying to get this right. When ever I can I talk to architects, and builders to get thier input but it amazes me how little most of these people know. I will go with the 2x6 exterior wall, closed cell insulation. I will have other questions concerning other parts of the house coming up so any detail information will squash my need for a definative answer. 

1. 
   DanH | Oct 12, 2015 10:06pm | #4

   One point I forgot to mention is be very careful with the junction between the siding and the stone.  Probably the "systems" have some preferred scheme for this, but there needs to be some sort of a "water table" that will cast water to the outside when it lands on top of thestone.

2. 
   deadnuts | Oct 12, 2015 10:41pm | #5

   just wondering...

   Is your goal to definitely squash it, or squash it definitively?