The ASHRAE definition for continuous insulation is “insulation that is continuous across all structural members without thermal bridges…” This appears to eliminate attaching the insulation with continuous z-clips. OK, that makes sense, and there are other ways to adhere the insulation. The issue that keeps coming up is when we have a stucco, adhered stone or manufactured stone that requires a lath backing. Many of those companies do not want to see fasteners more than an inch or 1-1/2 inch in length, due the possibility of shear failure. We need to go through the lath, 1 or 2 inches of insulation and the sheathing to get to the stud.
Does anyone know of screws that might handle this situation, or can we possibly use non-continuous z-clips (yes they still would technically be a bridge) at 18 or 24 inches o.c.? Is this happening all over the place or am I missing something obvious? Thanks in advance for any insights.