Create an Energy Efficient Timber Frame Home

Are you planning to create an energy-efficient timber frame home? At Davis Frame Company, we pride ourselves on offering our clients beautifully designed and high-performing timber frame homes. We accomplish this through our designs and weathertight shell specifications. We choose package materials that are in line with our mission to create the most high-performance homes on the market today.
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS)

To create our homes, we use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for the ideal thermal envelope. We use SIPs because they provide high R values and one of the most energy-efficient homes on the market today. Besides our high R-value SIPs, we also provide high-performing windows and doors in our packages. Low-performing windows and doors can cost you thousands more in energy bills and who wants that?

create energy efficient timber frame home

This timber frame home insulated with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs).

Because SIPs and high-quality windows and doors provide an airtight structure, it is important to take two additional steps to create a healthy, happy, and high-performance home. One, install a vented roof, and, two, integrate an air exchange system into your home to bring in fresh, quality air.

Vented Roof

You may wonder, what exactly is a vented roof system? A vented roof is an air space (cavity) between the structural roof (SIPs) and the roofing material (shingles). Airflow is essential for any roof system to “breath.” This prevents moisture from getting trapped underneath your shingles. Not properly venting a roof could cause mold and/or deterioration of materials. Moisture results from condensation when heat escapes the thermal envelope and encounters cold, moist air. (Even the highest performing thermal envelopes experience some thermal exchange/heat loss).

energy efficient timber frame with sips

An example of the vented roof with the 1X3 strapping.

A vented roof will also prolong the life of your roof. At Davis Frame, we design all of our timber frame and SIPs homes with a vented roof comprising 1X3 strapping. 1×3 is applied to the roof panels 16″ on center in alignment with the roof slope. A layer of 7/16″ OSB roof sheathing applied to the top of the strapping. An eave vent and roof ridge vent must accompany this venting system to allow airflow through the cavity.

What benefits can you expect from a vented roof system? The possibility of ice damming, which can cause roof leaks and shingle lifting is reduced. It prevents water leakage through the panel which can cause interior ceiling water stains and mold, providing a healthy home for your family. If you are building in an area that receives cold weather and a lot of snow, a vented roof is a must! Also, the increased performance of the roof reduces the heating and cooling needs, which means cost savings for you.

Both asphalt roofing suppliers and Structural Insulated Panel (SIPs) companies recommend a vented roof system in any application of their products. In fact, most shingle suppliers will not warrant their product without a vented roof.

Air Exchange System

Now you understand the benefits of a vented roof, you may wonder, “What is an air exchange system, and do I really need one?” To ensure a healthy living environment, an air exchange system is a must. This is important because SIPs provide an airtight structure and fresh air won’t circulate in because of the tightness of the structure; stale air is unhealthy air! An air exchanger introduces fresh, conditioned air to your living space. An air exchange system is added to your new HVAC system. Or, it’s installed as a stand-alone device. For ideas on ventilation and air exchange systems that would be most appropriate for your home and location, consult with your local HVAC professional.

To learn more about our homes, call us today at 800-636-0993!