One of the most iconic elements of an Art Deco home is the thick walls, which can span up to 2 feet thick. More contemporary versions will typically make use of insulated wall systems made of double 2x6 wall construction, sometimes referred to as super-insulated walls. These walls are designed to maintain the thermal barrier for the home, while also preventing sound from entering or leaving. They are also reinforced and framed in a way that provides the highest level of stability.House Designs with Super Insulated Extensive Wall Thickness
Another notable feature of Art Deco house plans is the oversized wall framing they use. Frames are generally larger than standard wall sizes in order to reduce heat loss. This also adds stability to the structure of the home, allowing it to handle high winds and other forces. In an Art Deco house, windows and doors tend to be larger than those found in traditional homes.Oversized Wall Framing for Reduced Heat Loss
The most prominent features of an Art Deco home are the generously thick external walls. These walls are typically clad with stone, brick, or stucco, and are designed to support the thermal requirements of the home in an efficient manner. Some of these houses may even have thickened masonry walls in order to provide additional insulation. These walls can span up to five feet thick, making them highly effective.House Plans with Thick External Walls
A double 2x6 wall construction system is one of the most efficient insulation methods available. This method contains two layers of 2x6 boards that are secured together, allowing for a thicker insulation system. With this method, the insulation can be maintained and monitored in order to ensure that the home remains comfortable, while also providing the highest level of protection and durability.House Designs with Double 2x6 Wall Construction
One of the most unique features of Art Deco homes is the 2x6 sheathing that is used for a solid building envelope. This thick sheathing includes both a vapour barrier and a two-stage insulation system that prevents both heat and cold from escaping the home. The outer layer is composed of a membrane that is specifically designed to repel moisture and protect the inner insulation system.House Designs with 2x6 Sheathing for a Solid Building Envelope
Art Deco house plans sometimes make use of thicker wall framing, with materials such as 2x10 walls. This allows for additional insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs. The thicker walls carry more weight, but due to their extra insulation can reduce energy costs by up to 25%.House Plans with 2x10 Walls for Added Insulation
Larger Art Deco homes may also feature an additional layer of insulation known as polyisocyanurate foam sheeting. This foam sheeting is lightweight but provides added insulation benefits that can help reduce energy costs. It also prevents air leakage and helps maintain the temperature of the home.House Plans with Polyisocyanurate Foam Sheeting for Added Insulation
For older Art Deco homes, thickened masonry walls may be used in order to provide maximum thermal regulation. These walls are much thicker than traditional walls and can be up to five feet thick. This allows them to control both temperature and sound waves from entering or leaving the home, making it an ideal choice for luxury homes.House Designs with Thickened Masonry Walls for Maximum Thermal Regulation
Art Deco homes often feature increased floor joists thickness in order to enhance insulation. This keeps floors warmer in the wintertime and cooler in the summer. It also helps reduce energy costs and can even improve acoustics within the home. This makes it an attractive choice for larger homes where comfort is a top priority.House Plans with Increased Floor Joists Thickness for Enhanced Insulation
Lastly, some Art Deco homes are designed to use 2x4 wall thickness for maximum efficiency. This reduces the amount of material used, while still providing an effective insulation system. In addition to providing maximum efficiency, this method also helps improve the overall stability of the home, making it a worthwhile choice.House Designs with 2x4 Wall Thickness for Maximum Efficiency