Steel Wall Studs
Steel studs are standard in the Keys. I do not want wood in the house structure, or walls or floors. We want to protect against bugs, termites and mold living since we will be living in a damp, high humidity environment.
I want to use US made “paperless” drywall and fiberglass tape. Mold and bugs like the glue used on paper covered drywall. Some imported drywall products caused extensive health issues for some home owners. Finishing walls with “paperless” drywall and fiberglass tape can be more expensive and time consuming but, to me, it’s worth it. And I intend to require all fasteners to be stainless steel to prevent corrosion. One long period without electricity in a humid environment, especially after a storm, can lead to mold growth.
Foam Insulation
There are many choices for wall insulation. It may be different for exterior walls vs. interior walls. Do we use foam? Closed cell poly foam R 30 is the best on the planet. It has a high cost, high R value but must be properly installed? Do we use typical pink batting, less R value but cheaper and easier to install? Do we use rigid panels, they have a moderate R value and are more expensive than pink batting. What R values do we need or want in walls and roofs? What R value for doors and windows?
For wall finishes I expect to have painted walls and hopefully some interesting stucco pattern finish. I like this pattern of light checking. I think it gives the walls some character with a Mexican, Spanish or Mediterranean feel.
Interior Plaster Finish
