Ah-HA! Don’t Frame It – Build Panels
Here’s a better idea… it came to me last night. Framing this tiny house like a normal house doesn’t work well because the corners and bay windows don’t use the wood efficiently and fill the wall cavities with 2×4s and not insulation.
But If I were to build panels and then screw them together, using the plywood as part of the structure, I think I could have a better insulated structure that would be just as strong. I think I have it all figured out in my head and will get those ideas into drawings today and tonight. Here’s an exploded view and the revised plan so you can see what I’m thinking.
Updated! Here is an updated drawing with more detail.
Instead of framing with 2×4, why not use 2×3 or 2×2? This will reduce weight. You can fill the wall cavities with rigid insulation or spray foam (as long as you are OK with the eco-ramifications of each). If you are calculating your 9sf to include the walls (as industry standards do) this will allow more floor area as well.
Ironically I was at the hardware store the other day looking at those 2×3s. Never considered it before. Thanks.