Is Double Walling A Necessity?

Double-wall construction could be a terrific upgrade for any house, with benefits including improved design, noise reduction, and higher insulation.

For a long time, double-wall construction has been used to construct energy-efficient homes. While there are numerous approaches, the basic idea is to construct one wall (usually the inside wall), another wall in front of it, and cover the area with insulation.

Although it has several advantages over single-wall construction, double-walls aren’t necessary. However, these wall designs will definitely improve your comfort. So, it’s all a matter of preference. We’ll tell you more about double-wall construction and highlight the benefits of this design. Come with us!

What Is Double-Wall Construction?

You can take a few different approaches when building a house, particularly the walls. The first type of construction is single-wall construction. Single-wall construction includes exterior house wrap, interior framing, and vertical siding.

Then there’s double-wall construction, which includes oriented strand board (OSB) wall sheathing, exterior house wrap, interior framing, and vinyl lap siding. These wall constructions are regarded as one standard framed wall, with each construction design layering the aforementioned materials.

Furthermore, the main distinction between these designs is that single-wall construction has one extra layer on the interior framing, whereas double-wall construction has two layers on top of the interior. You can enjoy more benefits if you use two layers of interior framing rather than one.

The main concept behind this wall design is to construct a much thicker wall to allow for higher insulation values while still using standard thin walls (2×4) or smaller lumber. The exterior siding is attached to one wall, the interior wallboard is attached to the other, and one wall bears the load, with a gap between the two walls. Some sources claim that double walls cost twice as much to frame, but this is false.

Although there are nearly twice as many studs in the exterior walls, the roof rafters, floor joists, sheathing, subfloors, and interior partition wall lumber remain unchanged, so the overall increase in lumber isn’t that significant.

Similarly, the overall cost of framing does not rise significantly.

Single Wall vs. Double Wall Construction

Single-wall houses are an excellent option for someone looking for a traditional Hawaiian-style home. Many homes in Hawaii have single walls because it was once the dominant type of construction. On the other hand, single-wall homes have some possible problems that should be considered.

Single-wall construction is more vulnerable to intense winds compared to double-wall construction. Wind resistant techniques are used to build double wall homes, making them more resistant to heavy winds. The considerable lack of wind resistance in single-wall homes is a serious flaw. Nevertheless, some improvements can be made to a single-wall home to increase its wind resistance.

Renovating a single-wall home can be a difficult task. Planning even a kitchen remodel can have significant effects. Usually, everything from plumbing to wiring will need to be replaced. As a result, single-wall home construction can be expensive.

Double-walled homes have several advantages over single-walled homes. The insulation can help to reduce the rising costs of air conditioning. Double-walled homes are also built with wind-resistant materials and provide better storm protection. On the other hand, single-wall homes can be enhanced to improve wind resistance and fitted with whole-house fan systems instead of air conditioning.

Is Double Walling Necessary?

Double walling can be an excellent modification to your home. You can’t go wrong with it. Ultimately, the decision to add this to your house design. But here’s a breakdown of a few benefits of double-walls.

#1 Insulation

One big advantage of double-wall construction is eliminating thermal breaks and reducing energy consumption.

When daytime temperatures are extremely high during the summer months, the insulation between the inner and outer layers keeps heat from entering the home. It keeps the house cool even without using air conditioners. Thereby lowering your AC costs and electricity bills.

During rainy months, the insulation keeps the inner wall layer dry. Also, it keeps your house dry and clean by preventing water seepage. Likewise, the outer wall layer keeps the cold out during winter while keeping the insides warm and snug.

#2 Extra Carpet Space

Another notable benefit of double-wall construction is the extra carpet area. This benefits the homeowner by providing more carpet areas for a more comfortable home.

#3 Lowers Power Consumption

The double-wall construction helps to maintain airflow and ventilation in the house. These features keep the interiors comfortable regardless of the weather outside. This maintains a low amount of power consumption and lowers your power bills.

#4 Highly Durable

Single walls are less durable than double walls. Double walls protect the interiors and maintain a long lifespan. This wall design prevents moisture from entering the house and thereby reducing the risk of structural damage.

#5 Soundproofing

Because soundwaves pass through solids quicker than air, double-wall constructions significantly lessen external noise. Furthermore, outdoor noises hardly have any effect inside the building.

Conclusion

If you were wondering if double walling is a necessity, we hope this article answers your question. The double-wall construction method consists of two internally and externally wall layers installed side by side to form a thick wall cavity that could be filled with insulation.

Moreover, electrical wiring, gas lines, and other utilities are run in the space between the walls. Furthermore, double-wall houses have several advantages over single-wall houses. So, consider all these factors discussed to decide if this DIY retaining wall design fits what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible for cavity-filled walls to become damp?

Wall cavities are intended to trap rain that falls through the outer walls and redirect it away from inside the house, so if cavity wall insulation is improperly installed, it can lead to damp issues. However, dampness shouldn’t be an issue if the insulation material is water-resistant and properly installed.

Any installer certified by the Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA) should first assess your home’s suitability.

A 25-year guarantee will be provided for their work and materials. Some cavity walls, especially those frequently exposed to rain, aren’t ideal for cavity wall insulation.

2. Is planning permission required for double-wall construction?

Yes, you require planning permission for double-wall construction. Since the construction will change your house’s look, we recommend consulting with your local planning council.

3. Is it worthwhile to insulate the outside walls of old houses?

It depends on what the structure means to you. The cost of the overall project may not be worth it, and it can lead to structural integrity issues if installed incorrectly. However, if the old house has sentimental value, contact a certified wall removal contractor to find out what needs to be done.

4. How do you construct an interior wall?

• Place the bottom and top plates next to each other on the floor.
• Find the joists in the ceiling.
• Mount a plumb bob from every end of the top plate to above the floor, then red line the floor to determine the bottom plate’s location.
• Install each wall stud with stud-framing clips. Then, hoist the stud into place, align it with its mark, and flush with the edges at the top and bottom.
• Create the joints and corners. Double up studs where one wall intersects with the other.