Technical Specifications

5
FRAMING & SHEATHING
REQUIREMENTS
Nichiha AWP cladding may be installed on
wood or steel framing, concrete/masonry
with furring, Structural Insulating Panels (SIP),
and pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB)
meeting the following requirements:
Prior to Nichiha installation, closely inspect
exterior wall substrate and correct any
problems. Walls that are out of plumb,
for example, can negatively impact the
installation quality of AWP. Nichiha Spacer
may be used in conjunction with panel
attachment hardware if necessary to ensure
an even substrate.
Wood Studs
Size: minimum 2x4 studs
Spacing: 16” o.c max
Sheathing: none, exterior grade minimum
7/16” plywood/OSB (APA rated), ½” or 5/8”
gypsum
Metal Studs
Gauge: minimum 18 (20 gauge acceptable
with 7/16” plywood/OSB sheathing if local
code allows)
Spacing: 16” o.c max
Sheathing: none, exterior grade minimum
7/16” plywood/OSB (APA rated), ½” or 5/8”
gypsum
Concrete/Masonry
Furring is required for installation of AWP
over concrete and masonry structures.
Wood Furring: pressure treated lumber 2x4
or 5/4x4’s, oriented vertically, spaced 16” o.c.
max
Metal Furring: hat channel, c-stud, or z-furring,
minimum 18 gauge with 1-2” anges, oriented
vertically, spaced 16” o.c. max
Structural Insulating Panels (SIP)
SIPs should be installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions and local building
codes. Additional special Nichiha installation
requirements for SIPs are discussed in the
Fasteners and Installing the First Course
sections to follow. For installations greater
than one story, contact Technical Department
for assistance.
Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings (PEMB)
Metal buildings must be new construction.
No retrofits/remodels. Metal R-panels must
be installed reversed with ridges facing the
interior and ribs spaced no more than
12” O.C.
Exposure Category B Areas
Fully enclosed metal buildings must have
minimum 24 gauge, 50 ksi yield strength
metal R-panels.
Partially open buildings, such as those with
open bays, must have girts every 3’ with
minimum 18 gauge R-panels.
Building height can be no greater than
30 feet.
Exposure Category C Areas
Wainscot style installations up to three panel
courses are acceptable in Exposure Category
C areas without additional requirements.
For installations taller than 3 courses, contact
Nichiha technical department for assistance.
Additional special Nichiha installation
requirements for PEMBs are discussed in the
Fasteners and Installing the First Course
sections to follow.