Final answer:
2x6 studs are commonly used in exterior walls to provide greater insulation than 2x4 studs, increasing the R-value for better thermal performance and energy efficiency in line with modern building codes.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is common to find 2x6 studs used in exterior walls today because they allow for greater insulation compared to traditional 2x4 studs. Using 2x6 studs in construction creates a deeper space for insulation within the walls, which leads to better thermal performance and energy efficiency of the building. This results in a higher R-value, a measure of thermal resistance, which can provide significant energy savings over time. In addition, the use of 2x6 studs meets modern building codes that have increased energy efficiency requirements.
For example, the specified 3.5-inch space in a wall can be effectively utilized to hold fiberglass batts, further increasing insulation quality. Moreover, when 2x6 studs are placed 16.0 inches apart, it allows sufficient space for the insulation material without compromising structural integrity. This spacing translates to 40.64 centimeters in metric measurements. High-quality construction methods aim to reduce U-values, which represent the rate of heat transfer through a structure - the lower the U-value, the better the insulation properties of the wall.