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A service cavity is simply a framed system that allows for plumbing, HVAC and electrical to run freely through a building without disturbing the air, vapour or thermal barriers.

A big issue with this approach is the potential for loss of interior square footage - you can't retrofit a service cavity into an existing building without losing space.

Some considerations:

• There are many types of service cavities - sleeper floors, chases, varying depth framing (2x4, 2x6), bulkheads.
• Window and door openings will require special attention for increasing the depth of the RSO. Plan for jamb extensions!
• With allowable floorspace, this approach can be a mid level intrusion - a renovation may not require as much demolition if you're building a new shell to the inside.

ARTICLE: Timber framer Ted Benson talks about Open Building (segregating layers in construction)