WEBINAR ON BRIDGING THE GAP: DESIGN CONNECTIONS THROUGH FOAM INSULATION
June 18, 2026 | 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Continuing Education Credits Available - 1.5 PDHs
Presenter: Jay H. Crandell, P.E., ABTG / ARES Consulting
Presentation Outline
Cold-formed steel framing often requires use of exterior continuous insulation to achieve code-compliant thermal and moisture performance. But, how can we attach cladding and other exterior elements through a layer of rigid foam sheathing (a non-structural material) to cold-formed steel framing in a code-compliant manner? This presentation will provide a review of the research and code development that answers that question.
This presentation will explain the design methodology and the derivation of its “gap reduction factors” for typical screw fastener connections through up to 4-inches of foam sheathing to cold-formed steel framing members. A key feature of the design method is its ability to conservatively limit joint deflection for serviceability while maintaining or exceeding intended design capacity performance.
Prescriptive connection solutions included in the recent model building code editions also will be presented for routine attachment of furring and cladding materials through foam sheathing. In addition, application of the design methodology for lightly-loaded structural elements, like ledgers, will be discussed.
This presentation will help design practitioners and specifiers “bridge the gap” for connections to cold-formed steel wall assemblies that include an intervening layer of foam sheathing continuous insulation.
Learning Objectives
- Learn how research and test data were used to develop a connection design methodology and its “gap reduction factors”.
- Understand how the connection design method controls both stiffness (serviceability) and strength (safety) by use of a deflection-limited performance objective.
- Learn how to apply the design method and prescriptive connection tables in US model codes for connection of cladding, furring, and other elements to cold-formed steel framing through an intervening layer of rigid foam sheathing.
- Gain knowledge of resources available to support design and specification as well as a standardized testing methodology to qualify alternative fastening solutions.
Webinar Materials
The day before the webinar, participants will have access to electronic versions of the following:
- Presenter’s notes
- Evaluation Form
- Attendance Form
Who Should Attend?
This webinar is for architects, engineers, building officials and contractors.
Format
Web-based seminar using "Go To Meeting" technology.
Duration
1+ hour of lecture, followed by discussion and questions. (1.5 hours total).
Cost
| Registration Type |
Member Price |
Non-Member Price |
| Individual Registration (1 Participant Only) |
$50.00 |
$75.00 |
| Site Registration (More than 1 Participants) |
$125.00 |
$200.00 |
| Student Members |
Free |
N/A |
Presenter
 Jay H. Crandell, P.E.
ABTG / ARES Consulting
Mr. Crandell has over 35 years of experience in construction, engineering, and innovative building technology research for private sector, government, and university clients to help address significant structural, energy, and building science challenges. His work has been widely published and used to improve codes, standards, and practices for design and construction of buildings. For additional information visit www.aresconsulting.biz .
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