I've fastened stick framing to timberframing with 8" or 10" nails, predrilling helps keep the splitting down to a dull roar,then get out the small sledge hammer, and send the nails straight through the edge of the stud.
I think more than 2ft centers will not support drywall well enough. Also 18 braces for 1000 sq ft and 1.5 storey sounds light to me. I'd think more like 30 or 40(I built a 1.5 storey at 864 sq ft with 48 braces), but then I tend to over-build...
what's the diff between spray foam and sips, anyways?
