millimetres or 50x100 millimetres . However , the wall insulation may be the major factor in stud dimensions and wall thickness . Studs are arranged in multiples at corners and partitions intersections to allow rigid attachment of the sheathing ( OSB ) in the both sides of framing , the exterior and interior wall finish materials ( Figure 1 ). This arrangement of studs also contributes to the wall resistance to lateral loads ( Freitas and Crasto 2012 ).
Figure 1 : Wall framing at intersecting partitions . Source : adapted from American Wood Council , 2001
Exterior finishes include a wide variety of cladding materials : wood or vinyl siding and ceramic tiles or painting applied over the cementitious board . The last variety is the most used one in Brazil due to its similar appearance to the finishing of traditional building systems . In this case , cracking in the exterior finishing can be prevented by using sealed joints between the cementitious boards . Omitted ( invisible ) joints can also be used in accordance with the procedures recommended by the cementitious boards ’ supplier . Regardless of the exterior finishing adopted , the use of a water repellent membrane is mandatory between the OSB and the exterior finish in order to assure the insulation and the durability of the OSB . In Brazil , the gypsum board ( drywall ) is the most common interior finish in this building system . In addition to providing a smooth , paintable surface , the gypsum board can assure a good performance in terms of fire resistance to lightweight structural framing ( Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation 2014 ). A harder of adequate size is required at window or door openings to carry vertical loads across the opening . Headers may be supported by double studs or , where the span does not exceed 90 centimetres , framing anchors may be used with single supporting stud ( Figure 2 ). Where the opening width exceeds 180 centimetres , triple studs are used with each end of the header bearing on two studs ( AWC 2001 ).
336 ZEMCH 2015 | International Conference | Bari - Lecce , Italy