Residential Panels Benchmark Requirements

by HUD USER

Residential Panels Benchmark Requirements

September 2004

Residential Panels Benchmark Requirements

Prepared for:

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Office of Policy Development and Research
Washington, DC

Prepared by:

Steven Winter Associates, Inc.
Norwalk, Connecticut

September 2004

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgments.................................................................................................3

Executive Summary...............................................................................................4

1. Benchmarking: State of the Art of Panel Systems.............................................4

Panel System Matrix and Panel Types......................................................4

2. Defining Performance Measures and Functional Integration........................32

3. Future Strategies for the Panelized Homebuilding Industry..........................36

Appendix: Panel Types and Manufacturer Matrix..............................................46

Open-wall panel system used in Coachella, California

Acknowledgments
The authors would like to recognize the technical advisory group (TAG), which helped
contribute to understanding the panel industry and provided review of materials
generated in the research. The TAG included Frank Opatik, VP Engineering, Wausau
Homes; Tom Sheppard, Program Manager, Construction Systems Laboratory, USG
Corporation Research Center, US Gypsum; Frank Baker, Insulspan; Ed Cohen, Häfele;
Kimmo Sahramaa, Rosette; Randy Shackelford, Simpson Strong-Tie; Ron Reindl, PFS
Corporation; and Jim LeRoy, Panel Pros. Thanks also to Liza Bowles, Newport
Partners; Fred Hallahan, Hallahan Associates; Barry Reid, Georgia Pacific; Mike
Weber, Portland Cement Association; George Blackburn, Blackburn & Associates; and
Ron Wakefield, Virginia Tech for their participation in the research. The authors
gratefully acknowledge the help and guidance provided by Luis Borray, David Engel,
and Michael Blanford from HUD.
Disclaimer
The statements and conclusions contained in this report are those of the authors and
do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development of the U.S. Government. The authors have made every effort to
verify the accuracy and appropriateness of the report’s content. However, no guarantee
of the accuracy or completeness of the information or acceptability for compliance
with any industry standard or mandatory requirement of any code, law, or regulation is
either offered or implied. The products and systems described in the report are
included only as examples of some available choices. No endorsement,
recommendation, or evaluation of these products or their use is given or implied.
Raw materials ready for fabrication into wall panels

Panel Research I:

Wall Panels Benchmark and Requirements

Executive Summary

The broad purpose of this research is to define what panelized wall systems are
currently available in the U.S. and international market, their technical specifications,
how they perform and in what applications are they most used, and what are the
standard performance criteria that all panelized wall systems need to meet in order to
integrate with existing methods of construction. Collectively, this information is the
industry “benchmark.” The study concludes with a “Future Strategies Report,” based
on the research, on what direction HUD should take on future research into panelized
systems.
The focus of the research is to provide a clear understating of the current condition of
the wall panel market. The three areas of focus with in the wall panel market are
systems types, code compliance, and performance measures. Research efforts included
the development of a panelized system matrix, descriptions of various panel types,
performance measures inherent in panelized systems, and areas of code compliance in
panelized systems.
The research methodology employed helped to gain a first-hand view of how the
panelized housing industry sees itself, the research challenges it needs to meet to
sharpen its response to the market, and the standards necessary in order to compare
systems of different manufacturers. The methodology included an extensive
compilation of existing panel systems that are currently on the market; interviews with
industry leaders; documentation of the panel systems in regard to performance, codes,
existing standards, materials, connections, and availability; and the research needs of
the industry in the future in the service of broadening the panelized housing industry’s
impact on the market. The methodology employed extrapolated information and
standards from existing panel systems that could be developed into performance
criteria that would apply to the industry as a whole.
1. Benchmarking: State of the Art of Panel Systems
For the purposes of this research, panel systems are defined as those building
components that arrive at the site either partially or fully fabricated, which are joined to
other panels to create walls, floors, and roofs of a house. Investigation consisted of:
searches on the World Wide Web; journal, book, and magazine reviews; inquiries to
associations and journal editors; and conversations with various manufacturers
including the Technical Advisory Group members. Conversations with journal editors
and associations focused on standard panels systems, new innovative systems, and
reference for further investigation.
Panel System Matrix and Panel Types
In order to establish a ground on which to move forward, research began with an
inventory of all panel systems in the market to-date. The first step in the research was
to canvas the panel industry to gage the state of the art in panel, in terms of the types
of panels that are currently available on the market, the predominant materials used,
and the composition of the panel systems. Documented were the types of panels
traditionally used in residential construction as well as those used in other industries
such as commercial, industrial, agriculture, automobile, landscaping, aeronautics, and
boat/ship. Panels used in various industries were documented so as to capture
technologies that may be applicable to or adapted for residential construction. Systems
that are manufactured abroad were also noted. Some of the systems encountered were
structural insulated panels (SIPs), concrete, wood, plastic, steel with concrete,
honeycomb of various materials, and expanded polystyrene. All of the systems
encountered were then entered into a matrix. Information describing components of
the system included:
• System name
• Manufacturer
• General description of panel
4

• Current and potential application
• Skin material
• Core material
• Whether the panel was structural or nonstructural
• Connection technique
• Dimensions
• Cost
• Environmental quality characteristics
• Certifications
• Region of distribution
The first inventory of panel systems grew to more than 100 individual systems (the
complete “Panel Types and Manufacturer Matrix” is found in the Appendix). After
review by HUD and other involved in research, the categories used to define the panel
systems were pared down to those considered the most important system components.
System information was filled in where needed, and additional systems where added.
The result was a more concise description of the various panel systems. Additional
panel systems (several of them from Europe) were added to the matrix.
There were obvious similarities between some of the 110-plus systems listed in the
matrix. Based on these similarities, 26 panel system “types” were defined. Similarities
used to discern system types included panel skin and core material, including framing
and stud material. The panel types are as follows:
• Aluminum/steel-rib system
• Carbon fiber
• Concrete – autoclaved aerated concrete
• Concrete – concrete skinned studs
• Concrete – hollow core precast
• Concrete – innovative reinforcement
• Concrete – sandwich
• Gypsum drywall
• Foam composites
• Honeycomb – metal
• Honeycomb – plastic
• Honeycomb – wood based
• Masonry
• Panelized framework
• SIP – aluminum cladding/foam core
• SIP – mineral fiber
• SIP – plastic
• SIP – plywood/OSB/gypsum/foam core
• SIP – steel/metal sheet/foam core
• SIP – stud
• Steel ribs
• Straw
• Stressed-skin panels
• Studs and skins – fiberglass or glass skins/aluminum studs or frame
• Studs and skins – wood studs/wood or drywall skins
• Wire mesh
A description of each panel system type was then created, with each of the more than
100 individual panel systems being assigned to one of the 26 panel system types.
Although not every panel system from the matrix was listed as an example, all panel
systems fit within one of the 26 panel system types. The organization of the matrix
allows for a general view of the different types of panel systems in the market, and a
detailed view of the types of systems available. The matrix is a benchmark, a reference
point, to help guide the discussion and debate during the rest of the research project.
The pages that follow document the 26 panel system types and the panel systems that
are included in each type.
5

ALUMINUM/STEEL-RIB SYSTEM
Skin Material(s)
Aluminum, EPS, Polymer or Epoxy
Core Material(s)
Fluted Plastic, Steel Framing, Steel
Description
The system skin can vary depending on application. The core of these systems
maintains a rib-type design, whether this is fluted plastic or corrugated steel.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Nonstructural/Residential/Commercial/Exterior
/Walls/Foundations/Truck Side Kits- These panel systems are used in residential and
commercial construction. Because of their strength and durability, these panels are
sometimes used for foundations, more specifically in the construction of prefabricated
homes. Another testament to their durability is the use of these panels as truck side
kits.
Connectivity
Panels are often attached with screws. The method by which adjacent panels fit
together is specific to the manufacturer. Some have chosen a ship-lap design while
others use a frame and track method.
Examples of Systems
ACSYS Inc. www.acsys.net
Fast Track Foundation System www.fasttrackfoundations.com
Aero-Kit Industries Inc. www.aeroindustries.com
Composite of panel materials
Aluminum and steel-rib panels in construction
6

CARBON FIBER
Skin Material(s)
Carbon and Epoxy Fibers
Core Material(s)
Carbon Fiber, Unidirectional or Graphite, Woven Material
Description
This is a 100% carbon and epoxy panel that uses unidirectional carbon fibers or woven
graphite in the core of the laminate. This method of panel construction produces a
panel with uniform thickness, consistent appearance, unparalleled flatness, and high
durability. The strength and stiffness of each layer of the laminate closely follows the
direction of fiber in that layer. By varying the direction of each layer of fiber, the panel
characteristics can vary to insure desired performance.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Industrial/Commercial/Interior /Semi-conductors/Automotive 

/Astronomy/Medical Device- The panel is used in the construction of commercial
Layered composition of carbon fiber panel
and industrial products. The ability to manipulate the performance of the panel is a
unique characteristic that allows the manufacturer to produce various products.
Examples of Systems
Kinetic Composites Inc. www.kcinc.com
Sample panel texture
7

CONCRETE - AUTOCLAVED AERATED CONCRETE
Skin Material(s)
Autoclaved aerated concrete
Core Material(s)
Autoclaved aerated concrete
Description
This panel is made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), a mixture of sand, lime,
cement, water and aluminum. The self-insulating panel keeps out termites, resists fire
and stands up well to earthquakes.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Interior /Exterior/Wall - The structural panel is
used for residential and commercial walls.
Connectivity
This panel can be manufactured to the exact size of project walls, eliminating the need
for numerous panel-to-panel connections. The systems are flexible and are able to
connect to various framing methods.
Examples of Systems
BABB International Inc. www.babb.com/int
YTONG www.ytong.cn
Onecrete Building Systems PTY Ltd. www.onecrete.com.au
Erection on-site of AAC concrete panels
Panels are stabilized by struts during erection process
8

CONCRETE - SKINNED STUDS
Skin Material(s)
Concrete
Core Material(s)
Steel Stud, Rebar
Description
This panel system consists of light-gauge steel studs that are connected to concrete.
They most often use wire mesh or rebar as reinforcement. It is possible for panels to
come with insulation but this is not standard practice.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Interior
/Exterior/Wall/Floors/Ceilings/Foundation- The structural panel is used for
residential and commercial walls, floors, and ceilings. This includes above- and below-
grade foundation walls.
Connectivity
Most often, panels are bolted together and sealed with caulk.
Concrete panels have open-wall of steel studs
Finished house with concrete panel system
Environmental Characteristics
Concrete walls are sometimes made with recycled aggregates such as fly ash or slag.
Examples of Systems
Earl Composite Systems www.metalcrete.com
Easi-Set www.easiset.com
Superior Walls www.superiorwalls.com
Kistner Concrete Products www.kistner.com
Open-wall system allows access for utilities Roff structure frames into concrete panels
9

CONCRETE - HOLLOW CORE PRECAST
Skin Material(s)
Concrete
Core Material(s)
Hollow
Description
This concrete panel is manufactured with a hollow core. There is an option to insulate
the panel with appropriate materials, in which case a higher R-value can be achieved.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Commercial/Exterior/Wall - This structural panel system is used for
commercial exterior walls. If panel is insulated, it can be used for refrigeration facilities.
Examples of Systems
Fintech Precast Inc. www.fintechprecast.com
Concrete panel systems has both commercial and residential applications
Concrete panel core is hollow for utility chases and to lighten the members
10

CONCRETE - INNOVATIVE REINFORCEMENT
Skin Material(s)
Concrete and Glass-fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC)
Core Material(s)
Wire Mesh and Steel Framing
Description
This panel has a shell of concrete reinforced by wire mesh. The concrete shell can be a
mixture of various materials and is determined by the manufacturer. The shell is
supported by light-gage steel frame.
Current and Potential Application
Nonstructural/Residential/Commercial/Interior /Exterior/Walls- The nonstructural
system is used for residential and commercial exterior foundation and above-grade wall
construction.
Connectivity
Panels are bolted together and finished with a caulk.
Examples of Systems
Niradia Enterprises Inc. www.niradia.com
Glass fiber reinforcing provides exception strength in single-unit wall sections
11

CONCRETE - SANDWICH
Skin Material(s)
Concrete
Core Material(s:
Polyurethane, Styrofoam, Soybean-based Foam
Description
ceiling connections are often grouted together.
Examples of Systems
Dukane Precast Inc. www.dukaneprecast.com
DOW (T-Mass)
Two panels of precast concrete are held together and insulation is inserted between. In
some cases additional concrete is poured between the concrete walls and the
insulation.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Interior /Exterior/Wall/Floors- The structural
panel is used for exterior residential or commercial walls, and floors.
Connectivity
Panels can be grouted together on the inside and caulked on outside. The floor and
Panels in use on building facade Insulation core between two concrete surfaces
12

GYPSUM DRYWALL
Skin Material(s)
Drywall
Core Material(s)
Drywall
Description
This is a solid drywall panel that can have conduit, socket boxes, and switches pre-
cutout. The pre-cut chases for wiring etc., reduce the amount of wasted material.
Current and Potential Application
Nonstructural/Residential/Commercial/Industrial/Exterior/Interior/Walls- This type
of panel is used in the construction of commercial, industrial, and residential projects.
Examples of Systems
Shui On www.shuion.com
Gypsum panels with preformed utility chases
Pipe connections in preformed gypsum panel
13

FOAM COMPOSITES
Skin Material(s)
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Steel Framing
Core Material(s)
EPS, EPS and Steel Core
Description
These panels are composed primarily of EPS along with embedded material that gives
it strength. A system may have an endoskeleton of galvanized steel embedded in
molded EPS. The strength of the panel can be increased by incorporating one or more
steel columns in the core prior to molding. A similar system may consist of rigid
planks of solid EPS, reinforced with tubular galvanized steel struts and angled steel top
and bottom corners.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Exterior//Roofs/Walls- This panel is used in the
construction of commercial and residential walls. Sheetrock can be screwed directly
onto the frame if available.
Connectivity
In some cases, panels are placed on a track and then slid into the adjoining panel ship-
lap joint and screwed at base and top. This type of system allows for greater integration
with other construction types; including pre-engineered steel frames, block, concrete,
tilt up, and wood or steel framing.
Examples of Systems
R-Steel www.r-steel.com
Eco Therm Panel Systems Inc. www.ecothermalpanel.com
Steel and foam panels are lighter and easier to assemble
Single panel can be moved by two people
14

HONEYCOMB - METAL
Skin Material(s)
Steel, Aluminum
Core Material(s)
Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, Paper, Phenolic-Impregnated Kraft, Plastic,
EPS, Urethane Foam, Extruded Polystyrene, Balsa Wood, ECA
Description
This is a lightweight and extremely rigid sandwich panel formed of metal skin material
and a honeycomb core. The core can be made of various materials (see list above). The
honeycomb core provides shear strength to the panel, while the skins add tensile and
compressive strength. Utilities can be threaded through core material and cores can be
filled with insulation.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Commercial/Exterior/Interior /Walls/Floors/Boats/Airplanes- This
lightweight structural panel is used in the construction of boats, airplanes and various
other projects that require a lightweight yet high-strength panel system.
Connectivity
Connectivity varies with application.
Examples of Systems
Bellcomb Technologies Incorporated www.bellcomb.com
Euro-Composites International www.euro-composites.com
Panel Projects www.panelprojects.com
Honeycomb panels of steel or aluminum
Panels used in commercial application
15

HONEYCOMB - PLASTIC
Skin Material(s)
Plastic Laminate, Polyvinylchloride (PVC), Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP)
Core Material(s)
Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, Paper, Phenolic-Impregnated Kraft, Plastic,
EPS, Urethane Foam, Extruded Polystyrene, Balsa Wood, ECA, FRP
Description
This is a lightweight and extremely rigid sandwich panel formed of plastic material and
a honeycomb core. The core can be made of various materials (see list above). The
honeycomb core provides shear strength to the panel, while the skins add tensile and
compressive strength. Services can be threaded through core material and cores can be
filled with insulation.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Commercial/Exterior/Interior /Walls/Floors/Boats/Airplanes- This
lightweight structural panel is used in the construction of boats, airplanes and various
other projects that require a lightweight yet high-strength panel system.
Connectivity
Connectivity varies with application.
Examples of Systems
Bellcomb Technologies Incorporated www.bellcomb.com
Euro-Composites International www.euro-composites.com
Panel Projects www.panelprojects.com
Plastic honeycomb panels in fabrication
Panel skin and core of plastic materials
16

HONEYCOMB - WOOD BASED
Skin Material(s)
Balsawood, Plywood, Paper
Core Material(s)
Phenolic-Impregnated Kraft, Aluminum, Plastic, EPS, Urethane Foam, Extruded
Polystyrene, Balsa Wood, ECA
Description
This is a lightweight and extremely rigid sandwich panel formed of wood-based skin
material and a honeycomb core. The core can be made of various materials (see list
above). The honeycomb core provides shear strength to the panel, while the skins add
tensile and compressive strength. Services can be threaded through core material and
cores can be filled with insulation.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Commercial/Exterior/Interior /Walls/Floors/Boats/Airplanes- This
lightweight structural panel is used in the construction of boats, airplanes, and various
other projects that require a lightweight yet high-strength panel system.
Connectivity
Connectivity varies with application.
Examples of Systems
Bellcomb Technologies Incorporated www.bellcomb.com
Euro-Composites International www.euro-composites.com
Thai-Kiwi Marine Company Limited www.thaiboating.com
Wood-based panels in commercial application
Wood-based honeycomb is extremely lightweight
17

MASONRY
Skin Material(s)
Brick and Mortar
Core Material(s)
Bricks and Mortar with Steel Reinforcement
Description
This panel system consists of a wall of bricks reinforced with horizontal and vertical
steel rods. Some wall systems have galvanized studded steel backing and foil faced
mineral wool insulation.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Commercial/Exterior/Walls- This panel is used to construct exterior
commercial walls.
Connectivity
Typically the panel-to-panel connection is designed individually for each project. There
are also gravity-frame connections every few feet.
Examples of Systems
Advanced Masonry Technologies Inc. www.advancedmasonrytechnology.com
Panel exterior is finished with brick-and-mortar
Brick-and-mortar panel being loaded from the factory for shipment
18

PANELIZED FRAMEWORK
Skin Material(s)
Concrete
Core Material(s)
Thastyron (recycled foam plastic and cementitious binder) and Rebar
Description
A Thastyron grid forms a honeycomb like framework. Rebar is placed horizontally and
vertically through the grid and concrete is poured throughout the framework
surrounding the rebar. This particular system uses less concrete than a typical concrete
structural wall.
Current and Potential Application
Structural /Residential/Commercial/Exterior /Walls/Floors/Lintels/Retaining
Walls- This type of structural panel is typically used in construction projects that
demand a high-strength support system. This includes residential exterior walls,
retaining walls, and commercial exterior walls.
Connectivity
Panels are initially connected with glue and/or clamps until the concrete is poured.
Once the concrete has cured, it functions as the connecting device.
Environmental Characteristics
85% and more of the volume of the Rastra Block core is recycled material
Examples of Systems
Rastra www.rastra.com
Wall core is of recycled plastic foam and rebar
Panels loaded for transport to building site
19

SIP - ALUMINUM CLADDING/FOAM CORE
Skin Material(s)
Aluminum, Aluminum embossed material such as wood
Core Material(s)
Polyisocyanurate, Urethane, EPS
Description
This is an aluminum sandwich panel that can be filled with various types of insulative
material. The aluminum skin material can be, but is not always, embossed into a
material.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/ Industrial/Exterior/Interior/Roofs/Walls- This
structural panel system is used in the construction of walls and covers of both
residential sites, such as a carport or walkway as well as a cover for industrial systems
such as ductwork. The combination of durability and insulation makes this panel useful
in industrial and commercial applications. An example of a common commercial
application is the construction of cold storage facilities.
Connectivity
These panels may be connnected metal to metal with pop rivets. Another option is a
cam-lock system or a system in which internal gutter profiles allow the panels to be
reversed.
Examples of Systems
Metal USA Building Products www.buildingproductsusa.com
Mortech Manufacturing Company
http://www.mortechmfg.com/mort_refrig_freezers.htm
APT Industries Inc. www.aptair.com
Patio shelter is a common use of this aluminum-clad panel technology
Aluminum finishes provide low or no-maintenance
20

SIP - MINERAL FIBER
Skin Material(s)
Steel, Aluminum
Core Material(s)
Mineral Fiber
Description
This system is composed of two sheets of steel surrounding an insulating mineral fiber.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Industrial/Interior/Storage Facilities- This highly insulating panel is used in
the construction of small and large cold and hot storage facilities.
Connectivity
In order to reduce heat transfer, a “ThermalTrak” perimeter channel can be used. In
some cases a tongue-and-groove system is used to connect panels.
Environmental Characteristics
Helps reduce heat transfer through the panels so that they are more energy efficient.
Examples of Systems
Eagle Panels www.eaglepanels.com
Mineral fiber core provides the panel’s insulating properties
21

SIP - PLASTIC
Skin Material(s)
Plastic, Kevlar, Laminated Wood Fiber Board
Core Material(s)
Styrofoam, Polystyrene
Description
This is a high-strength panel system composed of durable plastic materials and
insulation.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Industrial/Exterior/ Interior/Roofs/Walls/Floors- Because
this panel is so strong, it is often used in the construction of hurricane/shelter type
structures. The panel maintains superior sound attenuation and is used in industrial
applications that require the dampening of noise.
Connectivity
Panels are screwed together and anchored down.
Examples of Systems
Dupont, StormRoom
Warehouse Equipment and Supply Company www.warehouseequipment.com
Exterior surface of plastic provides a large measure of durability
22

SIP - PLYWOOD/OSB/ GYPSUM/FOAM CORE
Skin Material(s)
Gypsum, Cement-Bonded Particle Board, Plywood, OSB
Core Material(s)
Polyisocyanurate, Urethane, Divinycell, Pro-Balsa, EPS
Description
This lightweight panel is constructed of a wood fiber skin material and is insulated with
various types of materials. The panel gets its strength from its wood exterior.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Exterior/Interior/Roofs/Walls/Floors- This
structural panel system is used in the construction of walls, floors, and roofs of
residential and commercial buildings. It is also used in the construction of furniture
such as desks, tables, and cabinets, etc.
Connectivity
Panels are usually spliced together with a spline.
Environmental Characteristics
This panel can be made without the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which have
been linked to global warming. Of course this is dependent on the particular skin and
core material.
Examples of Systems
Winterpanel www.winterpanel.com
Murus www.murus.com
Insulspan www.insulspan.com
R-Control Building S ystems www.r-control.com
Diab www.diabgroup.com
Agile Building Systems www.agilebuildingsystems.com
Structural insulated panels are used for roofs as well as walls, with pre-cut channels
23

Metal-skin panels with insulating cores provide superior energy performance
SIP - STEEL/METAL SHEET/FOAM CORE Univision S.A. www.angelfire.com/biz/steelframe/panels.html
Zamil Steel www.zamilsteel.com
Skin Material(s)
Steel, Metal Sheets, Cement Board, Metal, and EPS
Core Material(s)
EPS, Celotex Rigid, Urethane, EPS, and Metal Studs
Description
This is a sandwich panel that has a metal skin and is filled with an insulating material.
Both the skin and core materials vary with the manufacturer. Panels can come with an
optional exterior finishing.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Nonstructural/Residential/Commercial/Industrial/Exterior/Interior/Foun
dations/Ceilings/Roofs/Walls- This panel is used in the construction of commercial,
industrial, and residential walls, ceilings, roofs, and foundations.
Connectivity
There is a variety of panels that fall under this system category, all of which come with
their own connection system. Some panels are connected with a tongue-in-groove
system while others use a shiplap joint and self-tapping tech screws. Top and bottom
steel struts and snap-n-lock systems can also be found in the market.
Environmental Characteristics
Some of the systems use recycled steel and metal products. Others are recognized as
Energy Star Partners.
Examples of Systems
Zero-Loc www.zeroloc.com
Kessel Construction www.kesselconst.com
GloPac glopac1@comcast.net
ThermaSteel www.thermasteelcorp.com
Structural Building Systems www.structall.com
24

SIP - STUD
Skin Material(s)
EPS and Steel Framing/Tubing
Core Material(s):
EPS
Description
Panels are highly insulated with an EPS core and are supported with peripheral and
interior steel framing.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Exterior/Walls- This panel is used in residential
and commercial construction.
Connectivity
Because the panel features framing members, panels are typically joined by screwing
the members together.
Examples of Systems
Techbuilt Systems Inc. www.techbuilt.com
Panels of EPS foam interspersed with steel stud channels
System can be erected by small work crews
25

STEEL - RIBS
Skin Material(s)
Steel
Core Material(s):
Steel
Description
The panel consists of a solid steel outer skin that is welded to a channel frame and has
a perforated metal inner core.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Commercial/Industrial/Exterior/Walls- The structural panel is used for
exterior walls of commercial and industrial facilities such as interior office, control pits,
and shelters.
Connectivity
Typically used is a steel I-beam connection with top and bottom tracks.
Examples of Systems
Industrial Noise Control www.industrialnoisecontrol.com
Panels are relatively easy to assemble in interior partition applications
Completely assembled partition system
26

STRAW
Skin Material(s)
OSB, Paper Products
Core Material(s)
Agrifibers-- Straw, Wheat, Rice
Description
Panels are made of fibrous wheat, straw, or rice materials that have been extruded with
heat and pressure and sandwiched between OSB or a paper skin material. This creates
a high-density, durable, and fire-resistant product. The natural resins of the wheat
straw create an extremely strong panel that can withstand heavy impact.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Nonstructural/Residential/ Commercial/Interior/Exterior/Wall/Floors/
Roofs- The panel is used for residential exterior and interior walls, floors, and roofs.
Panels are also used in commercial construction.
Connectivity
Panels are nailed down to bottom plate and connected together with connection disks
and adhesives.
Environmental Characteristics
An all natural insulation; non-toxic and non-corrosive.
Examples of Systems
Prestowall Design www.affordablebuildingsystem.com
Agriboard www.agriboard.com
Straw panels being raised into position
Panels can also be used for interior partition applications
27

STRESSED-SKIN PANELS
Skin Material(s)
Wood and/or other cellulose products with tensile and compressive strength
characteristics.
Core Material(s)
Wood Frame
Description
The wall panel system is composed of wood skin that is connected to the wood frame
system. The frame system varies with manufacturer and can influence the strength of
the panel. Insulation is sometimes available, depending on manufacturer.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Exterior/Walls- This structural panel is used for the
construction of residential external walls.
Connectivity
Panels can be manufactured for individual projects eliminating panel-to-panel
connection. Corner panels are often connected with nails located beneath siding
overlap.
Environmental Characteristics
Recycled and certified wood products can be obtained to construct panel.
Examples of Systems
Big Timber Works www.bigtimberworks.com
28

STUDS AND SKINS
FIBERGLASS OR GLASS SKINS/ALUMINUM STUDS OR FRAME
Skin Material(s)
Fiberglass, Glass, and Metal
Core Material(s)
Metal Frame, Glass and Wood, Hollow
Description
This panel is available as a sandwich and a framed panel. The sandwich panel consists
of a fiberglass skin material that is thermally bonded to a grid core, typically made of
metal. The framed panel is made of a sheet of glass that is set in a metal or wood
frame.
Fiberglass and glass skin combination Fiberglass translucent panel configuration
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Nonstructural/Residential/Commercial/Exterior//Roofs/Walls- This
panel is used for the construction of translucent walls and ceilings (skylights) in
residential and commercial buildings.
Connectivity
It is common for these panels to be set in a frame that allows for movement/opening
of the wall or ceiling. The panels are typically bolted into the frame in which they are
held.
Environmental Characteristics
Although the panels themselves are not particularly environmentally friendly, they
allow for natural lighting.
Examples of Systems
Kalwall www.kalwall.com
Skywall Translucent Systems www.skywall.com
NANA Wall Systems www.nanawallsystems.com
Translucent roof panel system
29

STUDS AND SKINS
WOOD STUDS/ WOOD OR DRYWALL SKINS
Skin Material(s)
Wood, OSB, Drywall
Core Material(s)
Wood Frame
Description
The open-wall panel system consists of wood or drywall sheathing and wood framing
that is open for the insertion of utilities on site. The panel sometimes comes with
insulation and pre-drilling for wiring. Typical framing consists of 2x4 or 2x6 members.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Exterior/Interior/ Walls- This is a structural panel system used
in the construction of residential interior and exterior walls.
Wood-based open-wall system is the closest technology to conventional stick framing
Connectivity
Panels are typically connected with nails. They span the floor joists and are nailed
down as well as nailed to each other. Panels can also be connected using a strapping
system that is nailed down as well.
Environmental Characteristics
If panels are made of recycled material or materials are obtained from a certified
sustainable lumber distributor, the have less of an impact on old-growth wood sources
Examples of Systems
Deltec Homes www.deltechomes.com
Forest Homes www.foresthomes.com
Exterior open wall panels with stick-built interior partitions
30

WIRE MESH
Skin Material(s)
Wire Mesh and Shotcrete
Core Material(s)
EPS
Description
Also known as a 3-D panel, this system consists of a three-dimensional welded wire
frame utilizing a truss concept for stress transfer and stiffness. Each surface of the wire
frame has a 2-inch-square welded mesh pattern of longitudinal and transverse wires of
the same diameter. The expanded polystyrene core is placed between the two layers of
welded wire fabric. The skin is welded and finished with shotcrete, which is a concrete
material that is sprayed onto the wall at the job site.
Current and Potential Application
Structural/Residential/Commercial/Exterior/ Interior/Walls/Roofs/Ceilings- This
structural system is used in the construction of residential and commercial exterior
walls, roofs, and ceilings.
Connectivity
Panels are often connected to each another with wire ties or wire mesh sheets. Panels
are placed over rebar and sprayed with shotcrete.
Environmental Characteristics
Recycled material such as wire is sometimes used in the construction of the panel.
Examples of Systems
Insteel Construction System www.3-dpanelworks.com
Hadrian Tridi-Systems www.tridipanel.com
Wire mesh and insulation is trimmed around window and door openings
31

2. Defining Performance Measures and Functional Integration
The next step in the research consisted of establishing a list of panel performance
measures by which panels systems could be measure. The goal is to characterize
panel systems in all of their physical characteristics, with an emphasis on
characteristics that could be measured and recorded. The performance measures
developed were organized under 12 categories:
1. Safety and Fire Performance
-
Structure (shear, axial, bending, tension, point loads, surface loads, impact
loads, lifting and transportation loads)
- Fire (smoke, fuel, flame spread, burn-through, noxious by-products
2. Weatherproofing
- Moisture (penetration, degradation, mold, condensation, vapor-retardance)
- Wind (infiltration)
3. Energy Performance
-
Thermal conductivity, radiation, mass, short-circuits
4. Durability
- Surface materials, degradation, corrosion
5. Dimensions
-
Shapes, sizes, thicknesses
-
Tolerances, variability, defining limits
-
Dimensional stability under temperature and loading conditions
6. Functions
-
Visual access (windows, privacy), solar access
- Acoustics (noise penetration, absorption)
-
Obsolescence factors
7. Connectivity
-
With other walls, floors, roofs
-
With appendages, openings
8. Penetrations and Inserts
-
Pipes, conduits, fixtures, structural supports
9. Aesthetics
-
Surface materials, details and reveals, trim, color, texture
10. Maintenance
-
Repainting, stain, metal corrosion, dirt removal
- Replacing degraded or obsolete elements
11. Handling
-
Transportation, lifting, settling, relocation
12. Flexibility
-
Relocatability
-
Ability to be modified, remodeled, or replaced
The list of performance measures was further refined to 10 headings to focus the
measures and to allow them to dovetail with code requirements, which would
permit the performance measures to relate directly to relevant code citations.
1. Safety and Fire Performance
2. Weatherproofing
3. Energy Performance
4. Durability
5. Dimensions
6. Functions
7. Aesthetics
8. Maintenance
9. Handling
10. Flexibility
32

With the performance measures defined as they related specifically to panel
systems, it becomes necessary to then dovetail the measures with applicable codes.
This allows the measures to be used in determining if a certain panel system was
code complaint in a variety of ways. In order to more clearly understand how the
market is addressing these performance measures, the measures were broken down
by those that are currently defined by code, those that have no formal definition,
and those that are essentially not measurable.
For those performance measures that are currently defined by code, a matrix was
created listing examples of applicable codes (as listed in the International
Residential Code [IRC] and the International Code Council standard [ICC]), both
general and specific. This code listing is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
to confirm that these performance measures are currently regulated in some way by
a governing body.
1. Safety and Fire Performance
Struct ure
International Residential Code
(IRC)
International Code Council
(ICC)- applicable under particular
circumstances
R301.1
R301.2
Allowable
Stress,
Masonry
R606.4
R606.4.1
Traverse
Load Test,
Sandwich
Panels AC04
4.3.1, 4.3.3
(reference to
ASTM E 72,
4.3.4-4.3.10
Lateral &
Vertical
Support,
Masonry
R606.8-
R606.8.2
Axial Load
Tests,
Sandwich
PanelAC04
4.4.1-4.4.6
(reference to
ASTM E 72)
Wind
Load
R301.2.1,
R301.2.2.2
design
R301.2.1.3
exposure
R301.2.2-
R301.2.2.6
seismic
Thermal
Barrier
Requirement,
Sandwich
Panel Metal
Skins AC214
3.5 (reference
to IRC
R318.1.2,
R318.3, IBC
2603.5,
2603.7) 3.6
(reference to
2603.5,
2603.5.4)
Snow R301.2.3
Fire
International Residential Code
(IRC)
International Code Council
(ICC)- applicable under particular
circumstances
R302.1
R302.3
Flame
Spread
R319.1-
R319.3
Surface
Burning,
Sandwich
Panel Metal
Skins AC214
3.4.1, 3.4.2
(reference to
ASTM E 4)
Fire
Blocking,
Wood
Frame
R602.8-
R602.8.1.2
Flame
Spread,
Insulation
R320.1-
R320.5
Thermal
Barrier
Requirement,
Sandwich
Panel Metal
Skins AC214
3.5 (reference
to IRC
R318.1.2,
R318.3, IBC
2603.5,
2603.7) 3.6
(reference to
2603.5,
2603.5.4)
Foam
Plastic,
Surface
Burning
R318.1.1
33

2. Weatherproofing 3. Energy Performance
Vapor Retarders With Insulat i on
International Residential Code
(IRC)
International Code Council
(ICC)- applicable under particular
circumstances
R322.1
Mold,
Sandwich
Panel
Adhesives
AC05 as
required by
AC04
8.8-8.8.2
(reference to
ASTM D
905, ASTM
C 297) 8.8.3
(reference to
ASTM D
1623)
Weather
Protection,
Sandwich
Panel Metal
Skins
AC214
3.3 (reference
to IRC
R703.1 and
IBC 1403
Com p li ance
International Residential Code (IRC) International Code
Council (ICC)- applicable
under particular circumstances
N1101.2
N1101.2.1-
Type A-1
N1101.2.2-
Type A-2
Insulation N1101.3.1
Fenestration N1101.3.2
Thermal
Performance
N1102.1
4. Durability
Com p li ance
International Residential Code
(IRC)
International Code Council
(ICC)- applicable under particular
circumstances
Decay
(regional)
R323.1 Accelerated
Aging,
Sandwich
Panel
Adhesives
AC05 as
required by
AC04
7.0-7.3
(reference
to ASTM D
1183)
Corrosion,
Steel
Framing
R603.2.3
Termite R324.1,
R324.3,
R324.2
34

5. Dimensions
Compliance
International Residential Code
(IRC)
International Code Council
(ICC)- applicable under particular
circumstances
Height R305.1
Span,
Wood
Structural
Panel
R604.2
Thickness,
Masonry
R606.2.2
6. Functions
Compliance
International Residential Code
(IRC)
International Code Council
(ICC)- applicable under particular
circumstances
Acoustics IBC 1207.1
-1207.3
Ventilation
Outdoor
R303.1
The matrix of code citations on this and the previous two pages does not include
attributes that are difficult (if not impossible) to measure. Yet, these attributes
should be included in the performance measures because they can assist builders
and homebuyers in selecting panel systems. These attributes are organized in two
broad categories, with detailed performance measures listed in each:
I. Practical Elements
1. Aesthetics:
Surface Material
Details and Reveals
Trim
Color Texture
2. Maintenance
Repainting
Stain
Metal Corrosion
Dirt Removal
Replacing Elements
II. Elements of Connectivity
1. Handling
Stacking
Storage
Lifting
Moving
Special equipment
35

2. Flexibility
Ability to be Modified
Ability to be Relocated
3. Dimensions
Shape
Size
Thickness
Tolerance
Variability
Defining Limits
Dimensional Stability Under Temperature and
Loading Conditions
Contacts and interview with various manufacturers and journal editors revealed
that current code regulations and costs constrain the growth of panel technology
and the adoption of the technology standard construction practice. This suggested
that the panel industry might benefit from further research into areas that are
barriers to technology adoption. The result of such a research program would yield
a better understanding of what types of panel characteristics are important for
panel performance and adoption. Understanding these performance measures
could lead to increased panel utilization in the home-building industry.
3. Future Strategies for the Panelized Homebuilding Industry
The formulation of a comprehensive list of known panel systems in the U.S. and
the identification and ranking panel performance measures became a point of
departure in “blue-sky” visioning to identify what is needed by the housing
industry, and the future research needed, in contrast to what exists or is on the
horizon. Particular emphasis should be place on the differences between existing
and needed research were emphasized in the process; many brainstorming
meetings in the housing industry have included individuals calling for products and
systems that already exist and coming up with ideas that have long been in
existence.
The opportunity to conduct focused visioning with panel experts, industry
representatives, and participants from HUD allowed the identification of what is
truly needed in the areas of panel types, configurations, connectivity, finishes and
other characteristics, and future research. The “blue-sky” ideas of improving the
panelized housing industry are also tied to the daily realities of building houses in
the U.S. market.
The major conclusions of the “blue-sky’ visioning run the gamut of issues that
need to be addressed in current and future research, particularly supported by
HUD. The key points of agreement and consensus among those in the industry are
as follows:
• The goal of the current HUD research project is to identify technical research
in homebuilding that would serve as a guide for government and industry.
There have been a number of roadmapping activities, including advanced
panelized construction. The vision is to develop building panels that perform
multiple functions and integrate multiple tasks into a single process or step.
Barriers to success are lack of familiarity with panels, initial cost of panels,
wiring requirements, lack of standardization, lack of regulatory acceptance,
limited distribution, transportation and handling, and factory inspection.
36

• Strategies to move forward include the development of advanced building
panels; establishment of common standards and specifications (this is most
important); and improvement of production, delivery, and site assembly.
Future activities will include the exploration of efficient design concepts;
connections testing and analysis; development of a full panelized model;
development of a central resource center; development of training programs;
evaluation of existing handling equipment.
• Options with panels are very wide: how they operate, connect, and are 

sheathed, and the different core materials. Innovations are taking place outside
the housing industry with nontraditional materials such as carbon fibers. There
are also combinations of materials.
• Labor and skills are the essential part, requiring constant retraining, the
availability of labor, and staying within the industry. There is more interest
from the building industry in modular technology. U.S. Census shows
disparities of how many homes are built in the factory, but it is approaching
100,000 units a year, many of which are produced by large production builders.
Many of the merchant builders are not using panelized systems. The numbers
are down because stick building can be efficient if done in large numbers.
Distributors such as Home Depot and Lowes are very effective in supplying
materials at lower costs, and they are available everywhere across the country.
They are moving the merchant builders more towards the stick-built process.
• Distribution of panelized systems is done mostly outside of the usual sources
that builders are familiar with. One cannot go to Home Depot and buy a
panelized system. Special channels are needed to acquire them.
• The decision to use panelized systems is more of a business decision than one
of technology. The lack of qualified labor should be a major influence. It has
not been to this point. The shortage of qualified labor gets filled by immigrant
labor. This is supplied at the same or better quality. It is prevalent in the
Sunbelt. Framing labor in Delaware is mostly Hispanic, coming in on a
subcontractor basis. This trend is more of a challenge to the panel industry.
There are mega-framing contractors, who work all over the country, and know
how to respond to the labor shortages in efficient ways.
• Open-wall panels, which basically involve the builder in using an open-wall
package, have been more successful. Open-wall panels competition between
the field framer and the panel supplier. The builder will pay a premium to
obtain a total structural frame erected and in place. The industry must respond
to that delivery system. Large production builders are using more open panel
systems, coming from truss manufacturers. It is very prevalent in Mid-Atlantic
market.
• Panelization is better because it is part of a better process. It is the same
process as in the field, but the process is technically better because of the
setting. The process benefits the consumer in some ways (such as energy
efficiency) and also benefits the builder by allowing him to better control his
process, and reduce call backs. There is also a design advantage. With CAD
CAM, more variety is possible.
• The insurance industry is making a bigger impact. It is now working with
National Association of Home Builders, requiring inspections for fasteners,
and requiring better oversight over the quality of the homes. The insurance
industry is going to force to better quality and structural integrity.
• The building of the house is a process of selecting sub systems. This is one of
the reasons that the labor content is different for the builder. The structural
frame component is the biggest subsystem the builder has to address, and is
what panelizers provide. Interconnecting the structural frame with the other
systems, such as the foundation, utilities, etc., is important.
• There are fewer closed-wall systems being used now than 10 years ago. The
driving force of the market does not encourage closed-wall panelization. An in-
between product is closed exterior skin without the drywall. Those are the
growth segments: sandwich panels and insulated concrete foundation systems
(ICFs) are experiencing solid growth.
37

• Panel producers could help people to design with their panel systems;
manufacturers could supply the CAD model. The CAD systems are often tied
to a specific product. But if it is a commodity product, you can supply a design
tool for the industry in general, and it can be adapted to different systems.
Architects and builders are not getting the benefits of panelization without
knowing the greater possibilities of design.
• The panelized industry should be developing a customized product that uses a
commodity process of panelizing. Advanced panelization will come through a
customized product. Using the factory process to go custom is the key. This is
not a commodity product.
• The availability of heavy lifting equipment and other technology has made the
modular housing market possible. Cost-effective mobile cranes would change
the whole nature of panelization. Identifying potential expansion opportunities
to have equipment manufacturers focusing more on housing technology and
the market could make a difference.
The results of the “blue-sky” visioning, in addition to the inventory of panelized
systems available and the drafting of the panel system performance measures,
focused the research on “Future Strategies” that the panel industry and research
institutions could benefit from--a candid view of the panelized industry, its needs,
and how HUD might guide its research priorities in the future. The result is a
“Future Strategies” discussion of what is truly needed in the areas of panel types,
configurations, connectivity, distribution, education, and other issues, and
suggestions of future research that might propel the panelization to make a greater
impact on the home building industry. The issues, discussions, and
recommendations are as follows:
1. Should HUD seek to set standards of performance in the panelized
housing industry?
The home panelization industry has a good opportunity to now set the standards
for panel performance that could generally raise the quality of the systems available
(although it should be stated that the quality of panelization systems at this time in
generally high. For example, a standard of performance such as the HERS (Home
Energy Rating System) rating for a finished panelized house could be set above the
current score of 86 to qualify for Energy Star compliance. Setting the bar above
this rating, to perhaps a HERS score of 90, would generally raise the energy
performance of panelized houses. Similarly, the bar could be raised on panelized
housing system performance in relation to the International Construction Code, in
ways that could be determined by a consensus of those in the panelized housing
industry. Such actions would communicate to the industry and to consumers that
panelized systems represent a higher-quality choice in the housing market, and
would work to overcome inaccurate perceptions on the part of consumers that
panelized housing is an inferior product, primarily because it is produced in the
factory (when, in fact, the opposite is the case).
A model to consider would be past research funded by HUD on standardization in
such industries as the steel framing industry. With HUD’s involvement as an
impartial third party, it becomes more likely that such standards would be taken
seriously by those involved in the industry, and encourage adoption.
Because a panelized housing system is a collection of subsystems that must work
together, it is important for the professional organizations that represent the
manufacturers of those subsystems to work together on standard-setting and
adoption. An example would be the steel industry (which makes anchoring systems
for panelized homes) and the concrete systems industry. Another example would
be the broad standardization seen in structural insulated panel systems, which must
also work with a number of subsystems. HUD’s sponsorship of such research,
standard-setting, and adoption is key. Working with the professional organizations,
HUD can foster adoption thanks to broad representation by those in the industry.
38

Another route to panel standardization and performance measures (particularly
standardization among panel subsystems) might lie in the development and use of
design tools (modeled on CAD software) that allows elements from different
subsystems to be used freely with each other. Such design tools would encourage
architects and developers to use a range of panelized systems and subsystems, for
they would remove much of the guess-work of how different subsystems go
together, and also what the design possibilities might be within different systems.
Such design tools would make it easier to estimate the cost of a finished house that
involves a variety of panelized subsystems that are outside of a standard package
system (such as the Insulspan product). Each panel producer uses a different brand
and/or type of CAD system. The systems are chosen for various different separate
and/or combined functions; architectural, engineering, production drawings, etc.
In many cases, the A&E software platform will interface with the main business
system.
What augurs against the development of such design tools is that many panelized
systems are designed to be used exclusively with certain subsystems, and that
manufacturers naturally wish to protect their own panelized technology. As is
currently the case in the industry, many CAD systems are often tied to a specific
product. But if panelized housing is viewed more as a commodity product (such as
2x4s or pipe for plumbing) the design tool could geared to the paneled housing
industry in general, and could be adapted to a number of systems.
For example, a company such as Georgia Pacific could develop a library of panel
systems of sizes or types that could be used and combined into different designs.
Such a design tool would focus on the rules for how panels work together, and
how subsystems fit into the overall system. Without such design tools currently
available, architects and builders are not realizing the benefits of panelization,
especially when it comes to design flexibility. Such design tools could also
incorporate performance information (such as wind-design standards) that would
help builders and architects to decide on the best system to use given the regional
conditions. Such analysis of a system would then be affordable, and would not
require third-party analysis, which tends to be costly (especially for small builders).
While many panelized housing manufacturers can take a design from an architect
or builder and adapt it to a particular panelized system, this does not allow the
architect or builder a full range of involvement in the process. Design tools that
would allow architects and builders to explore possibilities, without needing first to
approach a manufacturer, would bring these building professionals into the
panelized housing design process.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Further research support from HUD could help the panelized housing industry to
set standards of performance and use among the many subsystems that are found
in a single panelized system. Such standards could promote the cross-use of
various subsystems, and allow great variety in panelized homes. Design tools
should be supported through research that would allow architects and builders to
explore the possibilities within panelized systems, and would also aid in
determining performance and cost. Such design tools would promote a greater use
of panelized housing as a commodity product.
2. Should research focus on European systems and models from other
parts of the world?
The creation of a commodity product that can satisfy the special needs of the
housing market is an approach to panelized housing that one sees in Europe and
Asia. The business model successful in Europe is providing the whole envelope,
which results in far fewer headaches and uncertainty for the housing contractor. In
these models, the entire end product, with all of its subsystems in place and
working together, is provided by a single supplier, which also provides a guarantee
that the installed envelope will perform according to certain standards. Because
energy costs are higher in Europe and other parts of the world, there is a greater
emphasis on envelope energy performance, and that is the primary standard by
which many systems are selected.
39

Because of their cultural similarities to the U.S., England, Ireland, and Scandinavia
might be good areas for further research in terms of the panelized housing
products that they produce. Some companies in these countries are supplying
upwards of 3,000 to 6,000 units per year, and they have the most to offer in terms
of models from which U.S. manufacturers might learn. The Irish, for example,
have done a very good job in designing and producing panelized home systems
that provide a single solution, and communicating the quality of the system to the
consumer. These promotional materials have been prepared by the Irish
government.
Although the impact of panelized housing in Japan has been significant, there are
fewer cultural similarities between this market and the United States. Japanese
companies have attempted for many years to make the leap of exporting factory-
produced houses to the U.S. market, with little success. However, just as Japanese
cars made an impact on the U.S. market, and with generally high quality in their
factory-produced houses, Japan may yet find a way of transferring panelized
housing technology to the U.S. This might take the form of Japanese companies
building panelized housing plants in the U.S. and running them like the auto plants.
The key, however, would be to appeal to the values and images of housing that are
special to the U.S. market. In this regard, Europe has culturally a closer
relationship with the U.S. to understand what is here and what is needed.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The approach in Europe has been to design, produce, and market panelized
systems as a total solution to housing needs. Individual systems are marketed on a
commodity basis. Because of the closer cultural ties to such countries as England
and Ireland, future research might look closely at panelized producers in these
countries and study how they market their systems; the financing available;
warranty systems; the involvement of builders, architects, and the end-users;
customer satisfaction; standards governing these systems; and support from local
and national government.
3. Is it worth exploring the goal of creating a customized panelized house
using factory processes that operate on a commodity or standardized
basis?
The panelized housing industry in the U.S. might be viewed as producing
customized products by using a commodity process of panelization. Many believe
that the advancement of panelized systems will only be possible by customizing the
end product to the user’s particular needs. Many industries approach such
production in the same way. The auto industry, for example, offers base models
that can be customized through a variety of different kinds of feature packages.
Today, modular homes are offered on a customized basis, allowing the end user to
modify the design and features before the fabrication of the modules begin.
Industry experts believe that marketing panelized systems as a commodity is not in
the best interest of the panelized housing industry. The key is to produce a quality
product that can respond to the market. Advanced factory processes now allow
each unit on an assembly line to be different, and cookie-cutter solutions are no
longer necessary (nor are they desired by the consumer).
The efficiency of the panelized industry lies in its ability to produce a consistently
high-quality basic unit—the panel, with its energy-conserving attributes and high
quality construction—which can then be used in a variety of ways to create a
customized housing solution consistent with what consumers want. Creating
customized houses on a stick-built basis is not efficient. Wausau Homes, for
example, believes that it is more efficient and effective to provide a customized
product with standardized procedures, materials and quality control practices.
Wausau’s niche is more upscale housing. A stick builder can offer a better house if
it is small and predictable—essentially the same design. But the panelized process
can offer better quality with customization.
The question is to explore how the marketplace’s demand for more customized
products can be met by the panelization industry, in order to take advantage of this
demand. In answering this question, it is important to overcome erroneous
perceptions on the part of builders and others that a house produced in a factory is
an inferior product.
40

Conclusions and Recommendations
The question of standardization versus customization is ripe for research. The
panelized industry’s ability to provide a customized housing solution using
standardized elements is key to its further market penetration. HUD might support
research that would explore how the best panelized producers have addressed this
balance of standardization versus customization, how their successes are leading to
a better, more market-responsive panelized housing product, and how those
lessons learned could be widely disseminated.
4. Should HUD support testing, research, and analysis of panelized system
connectors?
While connections between panels in a single proprietary system usually received
extensive testing by the manufacturer, an area that could yield some interesting
research possibilities is connections between subsystems. Research on connections
between panels would necessarily need to be generic in nature, so that the research
might be applicable to many different kinds of systems. Such research might not be
particularly valuable (other than to the manufacturers of a particular proprietary
system). However, research on connections between proprietary panel systems
and their subsystems, such as the connections between Wausau’s panelized houses
and different kinds of precast concrete foundation systems, might yield lessons
that can be applied on an industry-wide basis.
Most connections of wood-to-wood have been designed for 2x4 stick
construction, and may not be applicable to panelized systems that use differently
sized members to make up a panel. Panelized system manufacturers have specific
needs for different connectors. Their applications are less generalized and more
specific. For example, the width of a generic connector is sized for domestic
lumber. But building elements such as micro-lams are differently sized. A
connector suitable for 2x stick construction is not readily applicable to micro-lams.
There is very little standardization, even among materials that are supposed to be the
same (such as 2x4s, which can vary slightly in size according to which mill
produced them).
What is needed for such standardization is a market catalyst. An example of such a
catalyst would be the auto industry, which early in the 20
th
century forced
standardization of parts and pieces such as bolts and screws. At the end of the 19
th
century there were some 2,000 different thread connections for bolts and screws.
The impact of the auto industry forced standardization of bolts and screws, which
then extended to many other items that are used in auto manufacturing.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Connections between the subsystems of a panelized house, such as the walls and
the foundation system, have not been given serious consideration. Doubts about
connectivity between such subsystems might convince a builder or consumer to
not use a panelized housing system. Research in this area could help to rationalize
such connections, and could lead to great interconnectivity between systems in the
industry. This would necessarily make the panelized house product easier to use,
leading to greater penetration of the homebuilding industry.
While HUD has a limited impact on the industry, it could promote the idea of
standardized connections between subsystems and other elements in panelized
construction. Funded research could focus on models of interconnectivity that are
currently available, identify the various subsystems that need to connect, and
propose prototype approaches to achieving interconnectivity between subsystems.
Other research activities might focus on: development of mechanical/electrical
connections in panel connection design, details, and specs; develop and maintain
listings of panel/connection systems; clarify criteria for uniformity of panels and
their component elements, and support a standards-setting process; and
standardize performance criteria so panels can comply at varying levels.
41

5. Could full-sized panel models offer benefits for the industry through
testing and analysis?
The testing of a single panel of a system does not appear to offer a sufficient
potential benefit in the testing arena. Testing a computerized model of a panel, or a
computerized version of an entire house of a certain panel type, might yield more
interesting and more valuable results. Such testing of entire systems might be
especially valuable to builders, architects, and potential end-users of different
panelized systems.
The key might be to define a half-dozen or more performance functions or
performance attributes, endorsed by consensus within the industry, which could be
tested across the range of different proprietary systems. Such testing could take
place over the course of many months for such performance measures as energy
consumption. Certain performance measures are dictated by code, so these are
fairly straight-forward performance metrics to determine and collect data on.
Others are not so easily measured, such as durability, dimensional tolerances,
maneuverability, maintenance, and aesthetic criteria. Research into how to
determine these more elusive criteria, and how to measure them, might be
worthwhile.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Testing of full-scale panelized systems could be a valuable exercise in determining
the various performance measures that might be applied to system functionality.
Various experts in the field have noted that verifiable results among a number of
performance measures could be valuable in the promotion of panelized housing
technology to the building industry and consumers.
Where applicable, the agreed-upon dozen-or-so performance attributes should also
be applied and tested on stick-built houses of comparable size, design, and
location. The test results could be reported by a third party, such as HUD, without
ranking the systems, as their performance would likely vary between different
criteria.
This research could lead to an added benefit: comparable testing with stick-built
examples would not only provide data on different construction types, but (if the
results of comparisons of panelized houses to stick-built houses are favorable)
could demonstrate the superior performance of panelized homes. The key would
be to show that panelization makes sense from a performance angle. Energy
consumption is the most obvious arena where panelized houses can compete
favorably with stick-built homes, often exceeding the performance of stick-built
construction.
6. Should HUD support the establishment of a Central Resource Center? Is
there a place where builders or consumers can go for information on a
panelized home technology and performance?
A Central Resource Center could be a valuable resource to builders, architects, and
consumers, and others in the housing construction industry. For example, there
have been a number of different studies on panelized housing providers, and
panelized technology. However, there is no central data-base or website to access
such information. HUD might offer seed money to research and determine the
best format for such a Centralized Resource Center. While HUD might be unable
to vouch for the accuracy of the information that could be accessed through the
Center, HUD’s involvement as a purveyor of the information and making it
centrally available could help balance the information available—the good as well
as the bad news. The establishment of a Central Resource Center would also give
HUD a view of what information and research is out there and accessible, which
could help shape future research agendas for panelized housing.
Conclusions and Recommendations
There is a need for a centralized source of reliable information about panelized
housing systems, their performance, attributes, materials, features, etc. Existing
research should be easier to access, and a Central Resource Center would be the
perfect venue for the posting and distribution of such information.
42

The PATH website might be a good place to locate the Central Resource Center.
This Resource Center might be simple to start, a place were one could find links to
research and other information already available on the internet. As more research
is commissioned and collected, it could be posted on the Central Resource Center
site itself. Some of the information that could either be posted on this website, or
accessed through it, might include: modular dimensional protocols for panels and
their sub-elements, including dimensional tolerances; information on panels,
connections, materials and their interconnectivity based on standardized protocols;
and the best ideas, systems, and products from foreign sources. This site could also
link to other professional organizations in industrialized housing.
7. Is training in the use of panelized systems a worthy goal? How would
this help the process?
The general feeling on this subject is that training is the purview of the different
manufacturers and panel systems, and that a “generic” training effort would not be
feasible or helpful. However, it is emphasized that education of those in the
housing industry and potential consumers is a worthy goal, as mentioned in other
topics discussed.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Training in the use of proprietary panelized systems is not necessary (it is already
supplied, for the most part, to builders by the manufacturers). HUD need not
focus on training in the use of panelized systems. Rather education of many others
in the housing field in regard to panelization is a worthy goal. The targets of such
training and education would be appraisers, lenders, insurance companies, utilities,
building officials, architects, builders, and foreign workers new to this market.
8. Should HUD support research in evaluating panel erection,
transportation, and on-site equipment?
Panelized system elements are not as easily moved and manipulated on the project
site as those used in stick building. Thus, panelized house systems often demand
the use of specialized tools and equipment to assemble the house. Familiarity with
these tools is essential, and research into tools and equipment that might facilitate
the use of panelized housing systems might be a worthy research topic.
The interest in manipulating the elements of a panelized system extends to worker
safety and preventing accidents on the job site. For example, the National Institute
of Occupational Safety dedicates several millions of dollars a year to research
worker safety. Panelized housing construction is ripe for injuries to workers, as the
panels are heavy and cumbersome (back injuries are the greatest risk in moving
panels).
The advancement and availability of heavy lifting equipment and similar
technology has made technical advancement in housing possible—the modular
housing market, for one, would not be possible without such equipment.
Technologies such as cost-effective mobile cranes could change the whole nature
of the panelized housing industry. Equipment manufacturers might view the
panelized housing market as an area ripe for expansion if panelization were more
dominant in the housing market. Ironically, if more heavy equipment were
available, panelized systems would no doubt see greater use. This is the vicious
circle of advanced housing technology.
Advanced equipment and tools can serve to make the process of erecting a
panelized home on the job site more efficient, and is an area ripe with research
opportunities. For example, tower cranes are making a huge impact on the
panelized homebuilding industry. They have made the entire process more
efficient. Research into the economics and use of technologies such as small power
cranes, which can be employed all over the site and can contribute to the
panelization process, might be worthwhile.
43

Technology tends to adapt to systems that are desirable in construction. For
example, high-flow concrete is advantageous, and advanced pumping systems have
been developed to further its use, particularly on job sites that have limited access
to concrete trucks. Research on the panelization construction process on site might
yield some insights into tools and equipment that would make the process easier
and more efficient, and encourage the use of the technology.
One approach might be to focus on panelized construction companies such as
NVR, which assembles the roof section on the floor deck, then installs the
panelized walls, and picks up the roof sections after the walls are in place. On-site
crane technology drives the efficiency of this process.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Research into the use of advanced technology for the movement and placement
and panelized elements could yield greater insight into the efficiencies of
panelization, and could encourage the use of this technology. HUD and OSHA
might team together on research initiatives that would look at worker safety and
job efficiency in the use of paneled home systems. The creation of new
technology to satisfy a need on the panelized housing building site might be
another focus. Studying how companies such as NVR employ technologies such as
small and agile on-site mini-cranes might lead to new tools and equipment, and the
promotion of panelized housing systems.
Research might also focus on the development of systems for integrating delivery
and handling systems within the panelized construction cycle, as well as developing
systems for accommodating weather cycles, just-in-time delivery, and other
variables in the field. HUD might support research that would suggest optimized
approaches to panel shipping, storage, distribution, delivery, and handling.
9. Three key strategies identified in the PATH road-mapping activity were:
1) to develop or design advanced panel technology; 2) to develop
common standards and specs; 3) to improve production delivery and
assembly. Should these strategies still be pursued?
These three strategies are still worthy goals. The importance of developing
standards and performance specifications, working directly with the panelized
housing industry, has already been mentioned. It is important that such standard-
setting not be seen as determining the one, best answer, but rather as developing a
range of answers or choices that can serve the consumer, builder, architect, and the
panelization industry. The development of performance benchmarks would allow
comparison of different panelized systems. Such benchmarks do not have to be
complicated and should be performance-based, not prescriptive.
The design and development of advanced panel technology is perhaps best
undertaken by the industry. One way that HUD might foster such development is
to structure a research project similar to those offered as Small Business
Innovation Research grants, which team independent researchers with industry
professionals to explore new innovations in the field. Such research grants are
usually structured as two stages: The initial grant supports research into technical
approaches to new technology—essentially surveying the state of the art and the 

feasibility of different technical approaches. The second stage would devote more
research funding to actually developing a prototype of the most promising
technical approach. Such a prototype would then be tested in the field, results
would be documented, and a plan would be developed for introducing the new
technology to the industry.
The improvement of product delivery and assembly was touched upon in the
above discussion of equipment and tools that could be used on the building site
for assembly. Distribution and delivery of panelized systems is accomplished
through a network of dealerships, usually involving the contractor and an end-
buyer. It is possible that research might focus on raising the profile of the industry
so that more consumers are aware of panelized houses as a market choice.
Promoting the technology should be directed primarily toward documenting the
44

benefits of panelized housing technology compared to stick building. However,
some panel producers might be reluctant to participate in testing, which will
become public information and reveal their proprietary trade practices.
Conclusions and Recommendations
PATH has an opportunity to further the use of panelized housing technology by
supporting of standards and performance measures, supporting the development
of new panelized technology, and promoting the new technology in the housing
market.
The authors suggest that research be supported with the goal of establishing 10 to
12 benchmarks for measuring performance. It is further suggested that HUD
consider supporting research into the design and development of new panelized
technology on a model similar to that used by the SBIR program. Finally, HUD
might team with panelized housing industry representatives to explore ways in
which consumer attitudes about panelized houses could be measured, and how
perceptions of panelized housing might be changed for the better to promote the
technology. Before acting on this recommendation, however, more input and
evaluation is necessary from the industry.
10. How important is it for HUD to support information dissemination on
panelized housing technology?
The dissemination of information about panelized housing technology was
considered somewhat in the discussion about the Central Resource Center (above).
It is agreed that information distribution is key to raising awareness of the
technology and for educating consumers about the options available in panelized
houses.
In most circumstances, an industry trade group best fills the role of information
dissemination. However, the panelized housing industry lacks a trade group. The
organization closest to fulfilling this role is NAHB’s Building Systems Council.
However, the BSC does not focus exclusively on panelized technology; rather, it
represents the broad field of industrialized housing systems (modular, panelized,
etc.). BSC also does not promote research; rather, it is primarily a marketing and
education organization. Having a connection with NAHB is a benefit because it
puts the panel system manufacturers in contact with potential customers, but as
one member of the Technical Advisory Group described the BSC, “It is a very
small tail on a huge dog, and it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves in NAHB.”
Some NAHB members also might see themselves in competition with panelized
builders, which weakens the relationship.
Perhaps the strongest trade group in panelized housing technology is SIPA
(Structural Insulated Panel Association). SIPA offers a wealth of information and
materials on structural insulated panels, which is only one of many panelized
systems now on the market.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The panelized housing industry is in need of a strong, recognizable professional
trade association that will promote the industry and the use of panelized
technology and disseminate information about it. Existing trade groups are either
too narrowly focused on a single panelized system (SIPA), or represent many
different kinds of industrialized housing technologies (NAHB/BSC). HUD could
help support panelized housing technology by funding a third party to organize
and operate a panelized housing trade group. The trade organization would
promote the generic use of panelized systems (not one type of panelized
technology, and not a specific manufacturer). Such a trade group also might
encourage and support research on panelized housing technology and its use.
45

APPENDIX
Panel Types and Manufacturer Matrix
The following inventory matrix of panel systems includes more than 100 individual
systems that were studied in the initial stages of the research. The types of panels
listed represent a broad range of the panel systems currently available to
homebuilders. A few of the systems listed are not primarily for the housing market,
but my offer technologies that could be adapted to the housing industry.
The organization of the matrix allows for a general view of the different types of
panel systems in the market, and a detailed view of the types of systems available.
This benchmark matrix is a helpful tool in the discussion of the state of the art of
the panelized housing system industry.
Dukane precast concrete panel systems in use in Chicago.
46

Panel Types and Manufacturer Matrix

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
1
3-D System ICS (Insteel
Construction
Systems), USA,
GA
Wire Mesh -3-D- This
panel is a welded wire
sandwich panel made of
modified expanded
polystyrene. The EPS is
sandwiched between
welded wire mesh. Once
installed surfaces are
sprayed with shotcrete.
Building- This structural
systems is used in the
construction of residential
and commercial exterior
walls, roofs, and ceilings.
Wire mesh -
shotcrete
EPS - Modified Panels are placed over
rebar embedded in a
concrete grade beam and
fastened to one another
with “hog rings” or wire
ties. Every corner on both
sides is covered with wire
mesh and sprayed with
shotcrete
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Interior +
Exterior
2
3-D TridiPanel Hadrian Tridi-
Systems, USA, CA
Wire Mesh -3-D- This
panels consist of a three
dimensional welded wire
space frame utilizing a
truss concept for stress
transfer and stiffness. Each
surface of the wire space
frame has a 2 inch square
welded mesh pattern of
longitudinal and transverse
wires of the same diameter.
Building-The Sstructural
panel is used for the
construction of exterior
walls in both residential and
commercial projects.
Wire Mesh,
Shotcrete
EPS A small wire mesh sheet
12“ wide and 48” long is
fastened over the panels
with wire. The panels slide
down over rebar which
comes up from the floor,
they are connected to the
floor by concrete.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
The expanded polystyrene
core is placed between the
two layers of welded wire
fabric. The skin is welded &
finished with shotcrete.
47

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
1
3-D System Varies by
project
4“-6” Approx. Wall, roof,
and floor
$1.65 to
$2.10
HUD approved, meet
CABO one and two story
family dwelling codes,
Compliance report No.
NER 0454, satisfies
SBCCI, ICBO and
BOCA requirements,
SEB# 1120
International, popular in
the hurricane region
2610 Sidney Linear
Drive
Brunswick, GA 31525
912-264-3772
Fax 912-264-3774
www.3
dpanelworks.com
Spoke with Ed Hummel
Web Was picked up by an
Austrian company and
brought back to the states.
2
3-D TridiPanel Wall Use recycled
material
909 W. Vista Way
Suite D
Vista, Ca. 92083
www.tridipanel.com
Web Individually welded internal
strut wires or diagonals
extend through the panel
core between each
surface. These galvanized
strut wires are welded
continuously in the
required spacing so they
form, with the welded wire
fabric, into a triangulated
truss, finished with applied
shotcrete
48

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
3
VIP (Vertically
Insulated Panel)
Faromor Inc.,
International,
Canada
A plastic skinned rigidly
insulated panel that was
designed to provide a non-
interrupted opening which
can be installed easily on
new or existing barns.
Manufactured with double
glazed lites to allow extra
light transmission during
the colder months.
Agricultural-A nonstructural
panel systems used to
construct stable doors/walls
both interior and exterior.
The durability and good
ventilation is advantageous.
Plastic- semi-
translucent
Insulation - Rigid Non-
structural
Agricultural Exterior +
Interior
4
Tuff-Lite Aero-Kit Industries
Inc. ,USA, PA
Aluminum/Steel- Rib
System, Aluminum- A
lightweight heavy duty
panel that consists of a
fluted plastic core
surrounded by a rigid
aluminum panel guard.
Automobile- The
nonstructural panels are
used in the construction of
truck side kits.
Aluminum Plastic, fluted Aluminum frame Non-
structural
Automotive Interior +
Exterior
5
Multilock BOSS Motorbodies
Int., International,
New Zealand
Aluminum- Extruded
aluminum wall panels with
internal ribs that are a part
of the panels themselves
Automobile- The
nonstructural panels are
used in the construction of
the walls of a freight
container on a freight truck.
Metal, Extruded
Aluminum
Metal, Extruded
Aluminum
Panels lock into one
another vertically - side by
side - and are attached by
heavy duty fasteners top
and bottom to the system's
cant and coaming rails.
Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
6
Pro-Fab EZ Lok Metals USA
Building Products,
USA, TX
SIP- Aluminum
Cladding/Foam Core - The
expaned poly sytrene panel
is coated with baked-on
enamel finish.
Building- The nonstructural
panel is strong enough to
walk on and is used for
residential roofing, patio
covers, carport covers and
walkway covers.
Aluminum, (heavy
duty) .024“ and
.03”- Driftwood
embossed
EPS- 1lb density EZ lok- snap-lok with
internal gutter. This type of
system allows for panels to
be reversed.
NonStructural Residential Exterior
49

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
3
VIP (Vertically
Insulated Panel)
Stables (519) 625-8000
info@faromor.com
P.O. Box 279
Shakespeare, Ontario
Canada
N0B 2P0
www.faromor.com
emailed for info 12/1
Web
4
Tuff-Lite Truck side
kits
Regional Location
2nd & Grand Street
Hamburg, PA 19526
Web
(610) 562-0260
www.aeroindustries.com
5
Multilock Varies by
project
Approximatel
y 2.8mm
Truck wall PO Box 14 609
Panmure
Auckland
Web
New Zealand
http://www.bossmotorbo
dies.co.nz/pages/conten
t/index.htm
6
Pro-Fab EZ Lok Width 2' and
4'
3-6" Roof, patio
wall ,
5085 W. Park Blvd.,
Suite 300
Ric
Guilbert
carports, and
walkway
Plano, TX 75093
1-800-827-6045
covers
www.buildingproductsus
a.com
50

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
7
Walk-In
Refrigerator &
Freezers
Mortech
Manufacturing
Company, USA,
CA
SIP- Aluminum
Cladding/Foam Core - The
panels are a prefabricated
poured-in-place urethane
(rigid) insulated panel. The
exposed exterior is .032"
thick stucco-embossed
aluminum and the
unexposed exterior is
stucco-embossed
galvanized steel.
Refrigeration- The
structural panels are used
for the walls and floors of
mortuary refrigeration units.
Stucco-embossed
aluminum + Metal
Substrate
Urethane, rigid Cam-lock Structural Commercial Interior
8
Solid Laminated
Panels
Kinetic
Composites, Inc.
USA, CA
Carbon Fiber- This is a
100% carbon/epoxy panel
that uses unidirectional
carbon fibers or woven
graphite in the core of the
laminate. This method of
panel construction
produces a panel with
uniform thickness,
consistent appearance,
unparalleled flatness, and
high durability. The
strength and stiffness of
each layer of the laminate
closely follows the direction
of fiber in that layer. By
varying the direction of
each layer of fiber, the
panel characteristics can
vary to insure desired
performance.
Products- The panel is
used in the construction of
commercial and industrial
products. The ability to
manipulate the
performance of the panel is
a unique characteristic that
allows the manufacturer to
produce various products.
Carbon / epoxy Carbon fiber,
unidirectional OR
graphite, woven
Structural Commercial /
Industrial
Interior
51

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
7
Walk-In
Refrigerator &
Freezers
Varies by
project
3“-5” Mortuary
refrigerators
and freezers
45 La Porte Arcadia,
California 91006
800.410.0100
626.447.8187
Fax: 626.447.0051 E-
Mail:
Info@mortechmfg.com
http://www.mortechmfg.c
om/mort_refrig_freezers.
htm
Web
8
Solid Laminated
Panels
Maximum
sheet size of
48“ x 96”
Standard
Semi
conductor;
Automotive
after-market;
1-800-375-7043
2520 Jason Court
Oceanside, California
92056
Thomas
Register
Not necessarily a
qualifying system but a
strong material type.
Laminate.
panel sizes:
12“ x 18” -
Astronomy
Medical
E-mail: info@kcinc.com
www.kcinc.com
38“ x 50” device;
Sporting
goods
52

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
9
Metal Stud Crete Earl Composite
System, USA, CA
Concrete- Concrete
Skinned Studs - The MSC
composite panels consist of
light-gauge steel studs and
a reinforced concrete facing
or topping on one side of
the studs, with the MSC
metal connector providing a
shear-flow connection
between the steel studs
and the concrete. A wire
mesh provides exterior
reinforcement. GFRC
(glass fiber reinforced
concrete) is supported by
light gauge steel frame.
Building - The structural
panel is used for residential
and commercial walls,
floors and ceilings.
Concrete +
Reinforcing
Steel Frame +
Insulation (upon
request) typically
batt insulation
Panel to panel (variations)
screw, rod and sealant.
Structural Residential /
Commercial
Interior /
Exterior
10
Old Castle,
uninsulated and
insulated
Old Castle, USA,
NY (owned by a
company in Ireland)
Concrete- A Concrete
panel with carbon fibers
(TEchFab) and rebar for
support. The panel is
backed with expanded
polystyrene. A new system
being developed abroad.
Building / Other - A
structural residential interior
and exterior wall and floor
system.
Concrete Concrete
(uninsulated) or
Concrete +
Insulation
Structural Residential Interior +
Exterior
11
Fab-Crete Speed Fab-Crete,
USA, TX
Concrete- A concrete
precast panel system
reinforced with steel.
Building - Structural
commercial and industrial
exterior wall system.
Concrete Concrete + Metal
reinforcement
Steel framework is welded
together and welded to
bottom
Structural Commercial +
Industrial
Exterior
53

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
9
Metal Stud Crete 10’ or less:
±1/8” ,10’ to
20’: +1/8”,
3/16”, 20’ to
40’: ±1/4”
Walls, floors,
and ceilings
MSC is a patented ICBO
approved steel
connector strip
connections. Minimum
steel thickness and
yield.
Technology sold to
various manufacturer.
199 South Hudson Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91101
Telephone: (800) 796
3275, ext. 62
Fax: (626) 796-6194
email:
metalcrete@earlcorp.co
m
www.metalcrete.com
Web Additional detailed
graphics on website.
10
Old Castle,
uninsulated and
insulated
Varies by
project
Varies by
project
Walls, floors,
parking
garages,
bridges
Varies by
project
Insulated: undergoing
testing
International 100 County Route 101
South Bethlehem, NY
12161
Don Clem Insulated: Is a new type of
panel being developed by
CarbonCast Consortium. It
is a very lightweight, non
combustible, highly energy
efficient precast concrete
component for building
systems.
11
Fab-Crete 8' - 14' wide,
various
lengths
3“ - 8” Walls ASTM A 36 P.O. Box 15580, Fort
Worth, Texas 76119
www.speedfab
crete.com
Web
54

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
12
Dukane Precast Dukane Precast
Inc. - involved with
Building America,
USA, IL
Concrete- Sandwich - A
double wall precast
concrete, with steel trusses
girders connecting two
sides. The panel is
insulated with various types
of insulation.
Building - The structural
panel is used for exterior
residential or commercial
walls, and floors.
Concrete Polyurethane,
typically used +
Soybean-based
and other foam
products are being
explored as core
material options.
Grouted together on inside
and caulked on outside.
Floor and ceiling cemented
in.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Interior /
Exterior
13
Ecocrete Wall
Systems
AFS Industries,
LCC, USA, CA
Concrete- A glass-fiber
reinforced concrete (GFRC)
with steel studs panel. The
pre-assembled stud wall is
placed on top of a wet 5/8”
GFRC slab, and molded in
Building - A structural
residential and commercial
exterior wall system,
exterior finished in factory.
Concrete + Finish
(exterior): stucco,
aggregate or other
exterior finish
applied in factory.
Concrete, GFR +
Steel studs
There are no fasteners or
other penetrations through
the exterior concrete wall.
Panels are secured top
and bottom to the structural
steel frame and allow the
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
place with additional GFRC
material.
flexibility needed in a
relocatable structure.
14
Vertical Panel
System
Leofric Buildings,
International, UK
Concrete- A precast
concrete panel. Panel
designed for construction
on a level concrete base.
Building - A Structural
panel used for the
construction of garage and
shed exterior walls.
Concrete Steel
reinforcement
Panels are interlocked and
are bolted together with
rust resistant fixings. Bolts
are screwed horizontally
into the top and bottom of
panels.
Structural Residential Exterior
15
Port-O-Wall Port-O-Wall, USA,
CA
Concrete- A precast
concrete wall in which there
is a “window” (a port) in the
bottom of the panel for the
pour-in-place foundation
and rebar to go through to
fully bond / connect with the
panel.
Landscape- A structural
commercial exterior site /
landscape wall system.
Concrete Concrete Tongue-and-groove aid in
alignment. The foundation
and metal rebar go through
the port (“window”) at the
bottom of the panel and
stabilize it / hold it in place.
Structural Commercial Exterior
55

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
12
Dukane Precast Varies by
project
Varies by
project,
typically two
3“ panels with
2” gap for
insulation
Walls and
floors
In house testing,
approved by local codes
as projects complete
Midwest 1805 High Grove Ln.
Suite 137
Naperville, IL 60540
630-355-8118
bbock@ducaneprecast.
com
www.dukaneprecast.co
m Spoke with Brian
Bock 11/13
Don Clem European technology. Can
select from various
textured external wall
patterns. Unique finished
internal wall. Looking to
lighten up panel with slag
and fly ash
13
Ecocrete Wall
Systems
Walls In accordance with the
latest California Building
Code
United States, United
Arab Emirates, Nigeria,
Mexico, and the Czech
Republic
520 Parkway, Chula
Vista, CA 91910
(619) 425-0044 ext.18
(619) 425-2751 fax
Automate
d Builder,
Novembe
r 2002
www.ecocrete.net
14
Vertical Panel
System
7' high Garage and
shed walls
USA and Europe Panelite Systems Inc.
PO Box 578
Madison AL 35758
Web
256-461-8000
www.garages
sheds.co.uk
15
Port-O-Wall Site /
landscape
walls
585 Fifth Street West
PMB 182
Sonoma, CA 95476
Web
707.938.4516 - PHONE
www.port-o-wall.com
56

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
16
Highway Safety
Barrier Connection
System
Easi-Set Industries,
USA, VA
Concrete- Concrete
Skinned Studs - A precast
concrete walls with an easy
connect systems, JJ
system.
Landscape / Site- Used to
construct highway walls.
Concrete Concrete JJ hooks- wall ends line up
(no male female ends, all
ends fit together) and slide
together completing the
hook (see webpage for
visual).
Structural Industrial Exterior
17
Insulstrux Insulstrux Panel
Company, USA,
CA
Concrete- A prefabricated
structural concrete
insulating panel with
expanded polystyrene core
surrounded by wire mesh
and a cementations skin.
Building - The panel is
available as a load and
nonload-bearing system.
They are used to construct
walls, roofs, floors.
Concrete, field
applied.
EPS + Wire Mesh Continuous high strength
“W” truss with “C” ring
fasteners to secure wire to
trusses and panel to panel.
Structural Residential +
Commercial +
Industrial
Interior /
Exterior
Concrete skin is typically
field-applied, creating a
complete system for
construction of walls, floors,
roofs and other load-
bearing and non-load
bearing structures.
18
ARES Panels Tensar
Corporation, USA,
GA
Concrete- A steel
reinforced precast concrete
panel with compressive
strength. The panel is
made to the desired height,
eliminating the need to
stack panels. This panel
meets AASHTO standards.
Landscape / Site- Used as
retaining walls.
Concrete Concrete Tongue and groove Structural Industrial Exterior
57

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
16
Highway Safety
Barrier Connection
System
Varies by
project
Varies by
project
Highway wall
barriers
Jersey and F-shape
NCHRP-350 Approved
P.O. Box 300 · Midland,
Virginia 227287
Toll Free: 1-800-547
4045
www.easiset.com
Thomas
Registry
It is the JJ hook technology
that is licensed to
manufacturers.
17
Insulstrux Single panel
widths: 2&ldquo; to
12”
Floors, walls
and roofs.
24827 San Fernando
Rd. #137 | Santa Clarita,
CA 91321
Don
Carlson,
Automate
- Single panel
lengths: 8' to
20'+
Tel (818) 612-9430
www.insultruxpanels.co
m
d Builder
Mark David Heath 661
586-6275 see
builder benefits for
information
18
ARES Panels 5' X 5' and 5'
X 9'
5.5“ to 8” Retaining
walls
5883 Glenridge Drive
Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30328-5363
800-TENSAR-1
www.tensarcorp.com
Web Inserts high density
polyurethane grid into the
soil creating a solid mass.
The grid connects to the
panel holding the soil back.
58

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
19
Chameleon Cast
Wall
Chameleon Cast
Wall, USA, MA
Concrete- A thin-set veneer
of architectural concrete
masonry applied as a facer
onto their cast concrete wall
system. The facer may be
any of a number of designs
and can mimic various
appearances, such as
architectural block or thin-
set brick veneer. The
product is typically
customized for the project
as designed.
Building - A nonstructural
exterior commercial facing
panel for tilt-up concrete
walls, which themselves
typically are structural.
Various facers available for
the exterior.
Concrete Concrete Per standard practice for
concrete tilt-up
construction.
Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
20
Hebel AAC Precast
PowerPanels
BABB International
Incorporated,
USA, GA
Concrete- Autoclave
Aerated Concrete,
Concrete- Autoclave
aerated concrete panel
Building - A structural or
non-structural residential
exterior wall system.
Concrete, AAC Concrete, AAC Connect to frame, method
depending on framing
system.
Structural and
Non-
structural
Residential Exterior
system.
21
External Wall
Panel
YTONG,
International, China
Concrete- Autoclave
Aerated Concrete,
Building - A structural
residential and commercial
Concrete, AAC Concrete, AAC Cut to fit Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
Concrete- Autoclaved
Aerated Concrete panel
made of sand, lime,
exterior wall system.
cement, water, and
aluminum.
59

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
19
Chameleon Cast
Wall
$5/ft2 for the
facer itself +
cost of
standard tilt-
up concrete
wall
Mid-Atlantic states, US 233 Harvard Street,
Suite 316
Brookline, MA 02446
(617) 232-3354
http://www.chameleonwa
ll.com/
Web
20
Hebel AAC Precast
PowerPanels
24“ wide and
8' long
2” and 3“ Walls 2” = 1.23/sqft
3"= 1.85/sqft
2400 Hebel Blvd. P.O.
Box 834
Adel, GA 31620
Main Telephone 229
896-1209
Web Can be easily attached to
wooden or metal studs
fitting into ordinary
construction systems.
Spoke with egineer
11/18
21
External Wall
Panel
Walls No 174 WuYi Road
Shanghai, China 200050
021-52399600
Market@ytong.cn
Web
60

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
22
Fanwall Reinforced Earth
Company, USA,
VA
Concrete- Fanwall®
freestanding barriers
consist only of concrete
panels and aircraft-grade
stainless steel cable
connectors. They require
no posts, footings, pilings
or other costly supports
Landscape / Site- These
structural panels are used
for barrier walls, for
example along side
highways.
Their ability to be rotated
varying degrees makes this
technology valuable.
Concrete Concrete Panels fit together in a
hinge like fashion, they are
rotateable
Structural Commercial +
Industrial
Exterior
23
Monotech Monotech, USA,
CA, NC, TX
Concrete Mix- Polystyrene
forms are covered with
Monocrete to create a rigid
form. The interior and
exterior is coated with a
Building - A structural panel
used for exterior residential
walls.
Concrete -
Monocrete
Polystyrene “C” and “H” Tracks: The
panels fit into the “C” and
“H” shaped metal tracks to
compose a secure
structure.
Structural Residential Exterior
1.2" layer of Monocrete.
Monocrete - a structural
material which is almost 3
times stronger than
conventional concrete,
cures to a strength of
approximately 2,000 PSI in
just 2 hours (to a strength
of approximately 7,500 PSI
in 28 days). The Monocrete
can be sprayed or hand
troweled onto the EPS
foam.
61

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
22
Fanwall Sound
barrier,
transportation
, utility,
industrial and
commercial
installations
Corporate Headquarters
The Reinforced Earth
Company
8614 Westwood Center
Drive, Suite 1100
Vienna, VA 22182-2233
www.reinforcedearth.co
m
emailed requested info
12/4 received 12/9
Web
23
Monotech Varies by
project
Varies by
project
Non-toxic
recyclable
material as
framework
24 Greenway Plaza
Suite 1808
Houston, Texas 77046
USA
Web The walls of the house are
erected using pre-cut and
labeled EPS foam panels
and metal tracks.
Tel: 713 . 888 . 0507
emailed for info, 11/7
Got a phone call from
Dan Diamon 713-888
0507 11/20
62

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
24
Slender Wall Easi-Set, USA, VA Concrete- Open wall panels
composed of architectural
2“ thick precast concrete,
hot-dipped galvanized
welded wire, insulated
Nelson® anchors
(THERMAGUARD™), and
heavy-gauge galvanized or
stainless 6” steel studs to
create a single, efficient
exterior wall system.
Building - A Structural
panel used in commercial
exterior wall systems.
Concrete +
Galvanized welded
wire + 1/2“ air
space (created by
Nelson anchors -
reducing thermal
transfer)
Metal Frame,
galvanized or
stainless steel +
Plus Insulation, as
desired.
Bolted, but frame and
exterior free to move -
alleviates thermal
expansion / contraction
movements
Structural Commercial Exterior
25
Xi Wall (in
progress) & R-5
Superior Walls,
USA, PA
Concrete- Concrete
Skinned Studs -Open-wall
system for below grade
(above grade system as
well) construction with
interior material of DOW
Building - The structural
panel is used for residential
exterior foundations and
above grade foundations.
Concrete +
Styrofoam
Concrete + Rebar Caulk and bolt. Structural Residential Exterior
Styrofoam. The new wall is
monolithically poured and
reinforced with steel rebar
and polypropylene fibers. A
1-3/4” face shell of concrete
is laid over the DOW
Styrofoam insulation. Inside
may be finished per design
on concrete studs (R-5) or
on the galvanized steel
stud facing (Xi).
63

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
24
Slender Wall Varies by
project,
though TYP
is approx. 8'
X 20'.
8-1/2“ Walls Easi-Set Industries
P.O. Box 300 · Midland,
Virginia 22728
Toll Free: 800-547-4045
email:
info@EasiSet.com
www.easiset.com
Thomas
Register
Fairly complete system,
siding and structure.
Systems weighs 28lbs/ft2
(vs. traditional 85lbs/ft2 for
concrete panel).
25
Xi Wall (in
progress) & R-5
Height- 4', 4'
8&rdquo;, 8'-2", 9',
10'
Foundation
and above
grade
foundation
Xi-Meets or
exceeds
energy
conservation
Phone: 800-452-9255 Web
walls requirements
from both the
IECC and the
IRC
64

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
26
Precast concrete Construcciones
Industriales de
Nuevo Laredo ,
International, MX
Concrete- Precast insulated
concrete panels.
Building - Structural
commercial and industrial
wall and floor panels.
Concrete: One
side is hand
worked troweled
mortar finish and
the other is metal
form smooth.
Polystyrene The panels have 6
embedded anchor plates
located on the edges of the
panel facing out.The
panels are welded to each
other at intersections and
middle points. Panels are
also welded to the
columns.The anchor plates
are connected to the
internal steel to transfer the
loads to the main panel
reinforcement.
Structural Commercial +
Industrial
Interior /
Exterior
27
Rastra Rastra, USA, AZ Panelized Framework -
Thastyron, a lightweight
honeycomb mixture of EPS
beads, forms a framework
grid Concrete is poured
through/around the matrix.
Rebar is placed vertically
and horizontally through the
framework to give extra
Building + Landscape / Site-
The structural panel is used
for residential exterior walls,
retaining walls, and
commercial exterior walls.
Thastyron Concrete +
Thastyron Grid +
Rebar
Glue or clamp until
concrete poured. Concrete
then holds panels together.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
support.
65

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
26
Precast concrete Height up to
3.2 mt, width
up to 11 mt
Up to 6“ thick Walls and
floors
$82 US/sqmt
and includes
openings
Mexico border region. 5901 McPhearson Suite
9B Centre Plaza
Laredo, TX 78041
956-728-7003
www.cinl.com
gmartinez.cinl.com
Web CINL's patented insulation
prefab concrete panel walls
are designed to
accommodate future
expansion (expansions will
integrate seamlessly with
the original building) of the
majority of our buildings.
Also construct a
condensation resistant
concrete panels. These are
for buildings that require
low temperature and
humidity environments.
27
Rastra 15” or 30“ X
7.5' or 10'
long
8.5”, 10“, 12”,
14"
Residential,
shear walls,
stem walls,
lintels,
retaining
walls, and
$23
$75/element
85% of
volume is
recycled post
consumer
polystyrene
waste
USA, International 7621 E. Gray Road
Suite A1
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(877) 935-3545
Info@rastra.com
Web Typically, panels are
constructed on site but
prefabricated panels are
also available.
floors www.rastra.com
emailed for info 11/7,
received info 11/11, left
message 11/11
66

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
28
Thermal-Krete Kistner Concrete
Products, USA,
NY
Concrete- Concrete
Skinned Studs - The panel
is a combination of raw
materials and a 5000psi
concrete mixture of
environmentally friendly,
recycled flyash,
strengthening fibers, and
steel rebar. Panels come
with steel framing on the
interior face. Every panel is
“monolithically” poured and
cured by steam. The
header/sill plate, footer,
face and prestudded ribs
are all one solid piece of
concrete. Corners are also
designed and supplied as
one solid piece creating a
seamless panel.
Building- The structural
panels are used for
subgrade exterior walls in
residential buildings.
Concrete, 5000psi Concrete + Steel
Frame
Structural Residential Exterior
29
Cyclone Onecrete Building
Systems PTY
Limited,
International,
Concrete- Autoclave
Aerated Concrete - The
panel is made of
autoclaved aerated
Building- Applications
include medium-density
housing aged care and
tourist accommodation
Concrete, aerated Concrete, aerated Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
Australia concrete (AAC) panels.
This modular, prefabricated
and inexpensive technology
creates highly efficient, self-
insulating structures that
keep out termites and fire
and stand up well to
earthquakes.
industrial cool rooms.
67

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
28
Thermal-Krete Walls Use recycled
flyash
8713 Read Road, P.O.
Box 218
E. Pembroke, New York
14056
(585) 762-8216
www.kistner.com
SWA is
testing
product
29
Cyclone Walls Australia
www.onecrete.com.au
Email:
onecretebuildingsystems
@bigpond.com
68

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
30
SteelCrete Simple Building
Systems, Inc.,
USA, CA
Concrete- The panel is
made of concrete slap with
imbedded wire mesh. The
light gauge metal studs are
attached to the concrete by
an L tab that is punched out
of the side flange of the
studs and plates. The tabs
are embedded into the
concrete by using the
building slab as a casting
bed.
Building- The structural
panels are used for exterior
walls in residential, and
commercial construction.
Concrete Wiremesh and
Light Gauge Metal
Studs
Sent email 1/8/04 Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
31
EIFS Niradia Enterprises
Inc., USA, CA, and
Canada
Concrete- Innovative
Reinforcement -The panel
is a thin shell of concrete
reinforced by wire mesh
and supported by light-gage
steel frame connected to
GFRC (glass-fiber
reinforced concrete) with
stainless steel anchors.
This is an open wall
system.
Building - the nonstructural
system is used for
residential and commercial
exterior foundation and
above grade wall
construction.
Concrete + Metal :
Wire mesh
reinforces GFRC
(glass fiber
reinforced
concrete) and
supported by light
gauge steel frame.
Steel framing Caulk and bolt Non-
structural
Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
32
Drywall Panel with
Concealed Conduit
Shui On,
International, China
Gypsum Drywall -
Conduits, sockets boxes
and switches are precast
into a drywall panel.
Building- Panels are used
in the construction of
industrial walls. This
system reduces the amount
of wasted material created
when digging out chases
for wiring, etc, reduced
panel damage, and allows
for a more accurate
installation of wiring.
Drywall Drywall NonStructural
?
Industrial Interior +
Exterior
69

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
30
SteelCrete 1.5“ to 2” Walls 27280 Jefferson Ave,
Suite 202
Temecula, CA 92590
www.simplecrete.com
Web
31
EIFS Varies by
project
Walls Varies by
project
Canada and California 9424 Chesapeake Drive
Suite 1303 Sandiego
CA 92123 858
499-8970
Web Though “non-structural”
this panel can “hold a little
weight”.
www.niradia.com
32
Drywall Panel with
Concealed Conduit
Varies with
project
Varies with
project
Walls China, The company
works on projects all
over the world; not
certain if panels are
shipped all over.
emailed for info, 11/5.
Information available at
http://202.66.146.82/listc 

o/hk/shuion/annual/2000
/innovation.pdf and
http://www.shuion.com
Web
70

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
33
Genesis Concept I
Hi-Tech
Genesis Building
System, USA, WA
EPS- A “post and beam”
system within extruded
polystyrene panel wall. The
wall is given strength from
the PVC pipes with
concrete and rebar that are
placed within the EPS.
Building - A structural
residential exterior panel
wall system.
EPS,The
polystyrene has
furring strips for
attaching siding.
EPS + PVC +
Concrete- PVC
pipes with concrete
and rebar are
placed within the
EPS as the
structural framing.
Structural Residential Exterior
34
R-Steel R-Steel, USA, ID Foam Composites - An
endoskeleton of
engineered, galvanized 16
20 gauge steel embedded
in molded expanded
polystyrene insulation. The
strength of the panel can
be increased by
incorporating one or more
steel columns in the core
prior to molding.
Building - A structural
residential and commercial
exterior wall panel system.
EPS EPS + Steel - 16
20 gauge
galvanized
corrugated
structural core,
embedded in the
EPS using a
specialized
molding process,
attached at top
and bottom with 18
gauge galvanized
steel tracks
Panels are placed on a
track and then slid into the
adjoining panel “ship-lap”
joint and screwed at base
and top. The R-Steel Panel
System readily integrates
with other construction
types; including Pre-
Engineered Steel Frames,
Block, Concrete, Tilt Up,
and Wood or Steel
Framing.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
35
EcoTherm Eco Therm Panel
Systems, Inc.,
USA, PA
Foam Composites - Panels
consist of rigid planks of
solid expanded polystyrene
(EPS), reinforced with
tubular galvanized steel
struts and angled steel top
and bottom corners.
Building - A structural
residential exterior wall and
roof panel system
EPS + Steel,
galvanized
structural tubular
struts / framing
EPS Screw Structural Residential Exterior
71

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
33
Genesis Concept I
Hi-Tech
PO Box 1996
Shelton, WA 98584
360-426-0145
genesis@olywa.net
Bill
Zoeller
Cut into polystyrene where
you need to place wiring
and piping
34
R-Steel 2' and 4' X 18' 6“ or 8” Walls UBC 26-3, ASTM E455,
ASTM 1592, ASTM
C578
9297 N. Government
Way, Suite G
Hayden, ID 83835
Phone: 1-866-8
Rural
Builder,
Septembe
r 2001
Acsys links to the R-Steel
webpage.
RSTEEL
Fax: 208-772-5942
info@r-steel.com
35
EcoTherm 40' x 9' 7-1/4" thick Walls and
roofs
RR 1, Box 1850
Saylorsburg, PA 18353
http://www.ecothermalpa
nel.com/buildingsystem.
html
Web Can apply various types of
siding. Sheetrock is
screwed directly into the
steel frame
72

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
36
EPS Insulated
Panels
Zero-Loc, USA,
WA
SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core -
Expanded Polystyrene
insulation manufactured by
Zer-O-Loc under the brand
name Zelsius EPS. Interior:
panels cladded with 26
gauge prepainted high-
gloss white (QC5216 White
Appliance Polyester or
approved alternate) G90
galvanized steel (USDA &
CFIA accepted). Exterior:
panels cladded with 26
gauge 8000 series
(QC8317) white, USDA
white, (or approved
alternate), pre painted
stucco embossed G90
galvanized steel.
Building- A nonstructural
panel used in the
construction of exterior and
interior commercial walls,
floors and ceilings.
Steel EPS Tongue-in-groove type
panel connection system,
and is referred to as the
Zer-O-Loc Sleeve-Joint
panel connection system
Structural Commercial-
cooling facilities,
control
environmental
rooms, cladding
Exterior
37
Folding Dividers Panel Systems
Manufacturing,
Inc., USA, WI
Fabric- Hinged wall panels
used for interior room
separation. Core and skin
composed of sound-
absorbing material.
Partition - A nonstructural
commercial interior hinged
wall panel for room
separation.
Fabric OR Custom
/ Other + Frame
Fabric OR Custom
/ Other
Hinged Non-
structural
Commercial Interior
73

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
36
EPS Insulated
Panels
Standard 46”
widths
Wall, floor
and ceiling
9757 Juanita Drive N. E.
Suite #119
Kirkland, WA
98033
425.823.4588
www.zeroloc.com
Web Specs available on website
37
Folding Dividers 6’-6” and an
8’ height
1-1/8" thick Interior room
separation
Panel Systems
Manufacturing INC.
110 Highway 10
Plum City, Wisconsin
54761
Web Hinged technology could
be used for residential wall
panel systems
www.roomdividers.org
74

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
38
Composolite Strongwell, USA,
VA
Fiberglass- A fiberglass
panel system consisting of
six interlocking
components, five of which
are used for connecting the
panels. There is nothing
placed between the interior
and exterior of the panel.
Building + Other- The
structural panel is used to
construct enclosure
systems and buildings.
The system allows for
flexibility of structure shape.
The panels are easy to
connect because all
components slide together.
Fiberglass steel
composite
Fiberglass steel
composite
3-way and 45° connectors
allow the system
components to turn corners
and facilitate the joining of
walls or sides. Toggles
lock panels and connectors
together securely. For
added flexibility, the
system also includes a
hanger and an end cap.
Structural Commercial Exterior
39
Fiberglass
Structural Armor
GAFFCO, USA,
NY
Fiberglass- A light weight
bullet-resistant fiberglass
and ballistic steel not
Building + Other- The panel
is used in the exterior and
interior construction of
Fiberglass Fiberglass Panels are screwed
together.
Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior +
Interior
insulated panel. bullet proof buildings and
structures. Sheet-rock and
wood veneers can be
bonded directly to its front
face (the side bullet enters).
75

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
38
Composolite 24“ wide 3” Buildings;
Bridge
enclosure
systems;
Cooling
towers (top
right)
Wastewater
covers
(bottom-right);
Bridge decks;
Tank covers
Platforms &
walkways;
Cellular
enclosures
400 Commonwealth
Ave. P. O. Box 580
Bristol, Virginia 24203
0580 USA
Phone: 276-645-8000
FAX 276-645-8132
e-mail:
webmaster@strongwell.
com
www.strongwell.com
Thomas
Register
Simple but neat.
39
Fiberglass
Structural Armor
Varies by
project
Bank teller
counters; Gas
stations;
6 North Street
Mount Vernon, NY
10550
Web
Convenience Tel: 914-663-9266
stores; Pay
counters
Remote
electronic
gaffco@bullet
proofing.com
www.gaffco.com
buildings;
Secure rooms
76

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
40
Kalwall Kalwall, USA, NH Studs and Skins-
Fiberglass Skins/ Aluminum
Studs or Frame -
Translucent sandwich wall
panel formed by
permanently bonding,
under heat and pressure, a
specially formulated
fiberglass-reinforced face to
the extruded structural
aluminum or composite I-
beams grid core.
Building - A structural panel
used for commercial
exterior translucent walls or
skylights.
Fiberglass Metal Frame Clamp-tite closures at
head, sill, jamb and unit-to
unit serve only a sealing
function.
Structural Commercial Exterior
41
Gas Filled Wall
Panels (GFP)
Lawrence Berkeley
Lab designed and
is currently seeking
private industry for
manufacturing
applications, USA,
CA
Gas- A gas filled panel
made up of thin polymer
film baffle and a bag
sheathing, filled with low-
conductivity gas. Flexible
bags, and structure is given
by the baffle (think polymer
film that is similar to a
Building + Other Polymer Film Gas Application has not gone
that far
Residential +
Other
honeycomb sandwich
panel).
42
SW-400 Skywall
Translucent
Systems, USA, TX
Studs and Skins-
Fiberglass Skins/ Aluminum
Studs or Frame - A glass /
clear or translucent double
paned panel with a hollow
core. Panel is held by
thermally broken aluminum
frame.
Building - A structural panel
used for commercial walls.
Glass + Metal
Frame
Hollow Connectors in which
panels slide in. Metal
connectors bolted to
building - depending on
construction design.
Structural Commercial Exterior
77

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
40
Kalwall Walls,
skylights,
window
systems
See webpage 1111 Candia Road
PO Box 237
Manchester, NH 03105
Phone: 603-627-3861
Email: info@kalwall.com
www.kalwall.com
Web
41
Gas Filled Wall
Panels (GFP)
Predicted use-
residential
wall,
Contact: Rs. Taylor at
Technology Transfer.
510-486-5366 Additional
Web Not sure if the technology
has gone anywhere.
appliances,
cars, storage
and transport
information at:
http://gfp.lbl.gov or
http://eetd.lbl.gov/btp/pa
pers/38093.pdf
42
SW-400 8' tall, 5' long,
TYP - though
can vary
Translucent
panel: 2-3/4",
Glass panel:
depends on
glass used.
Walls Varies with
project
International 750 Airport Road
Terrell, TX 75160
800-259-7941
www.skywall.com
Web Can be glazed from inside
or outside.
78

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
43
NANA Wall WA 67 NANA Wall
Systems, USA, CA
Studs and Skins-
Fiberglass Skins/ Aluminum
Studs or Frame - Large
glass window-like wall
panels that slide open in
various ways. Framing
material can be made of
various metal and wood
products.
Building - A nonstructural
residential and commercial
exterior opening glass-wall
system.
Glass + Metal
(exterior) + Wood
(interior): Exterior:
aluminum,
extruded with
choice of over 200
colors, attached to
the core to protect
and isolate the
wood. Interior:
wood
Glass + Wood:
Varies - pine,
douglas fir,
hemlock, oak, or
tropical hardwoods
Panels are hinged together
and sealed with weather
stripping. The panels ride
along a top and bottom
track; design is based on
desired folding pattern of
panels.
Non-
structural
Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
44
Hollow Core Panel Fintech Precast,
Inc., USA, CA
Concrete- Hollow Core
Precast - With additional of
insulation to the hollow core
areas, wall R-value can
exceed R-25.
Building - A structural panel
system used for
commercial exterior walls. If
insulated, can be used for
refrigeration facilities.
Concrete Hollow Structural Commercial Exterior /
Interior
79

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
43
NANA Wall WA 67 Up to 9' high approximately
3"
Opening
window walls
707 Redwood Highway
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(800) 873-5673
www.nanawallsystems.c
om
info@nanawallsystems.c
om
44
Hollow Core Panel Varies by
project
Varies by
project
Walls 888-837-6522 toll free /
530-241-8397 local
16761 Clear Creek
Web FinTech makes another of
other panel products as
well.
Road, Redding CA
96001
info@fintechprecast.co
m
http://www.fintechprecas
t.com/Default.htm
80

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
45
Honeycomb panels Bellcomb
Technologies
Incorporated,
USA, MN
Honeycomb- Wood Based,
Metal Based, and Plastic
Based -A lightweight
structural panel made of
stiff skins, such as
aluminum, steel, hardboard,
and fiberglass adhered
onto lightweight core
materials like honecombs
urethoane foams and
balsa. The panels are
framed with various
materials including:
aluminum extrusion, roll
formed steel and aluminum,
solid and formed plastics.
Building- A rigid panel used
for high-traffic flooring and
vault covers. Panels can be
used for other projects,
these are the most common
uses.
Varies- Aluminum,
Steel, Hardboard,
Plywood, ABS,
Kydex,
Polyethylene,
Lauan, Paper,
Stainless Steel,
Plastic Laminate,
Fiberglass
Varies- Phenolic
honeycomb,
Aluminum
Honeycomb,
Plastic
Honeycomb, EPS,
Urethane Foam,
Balsa Wood.
Frame: Aluminum
Extrusion, Steel
and Aluminum,
Plastics, and
Wood
Aluminum, wood, steel etc. Structural Commercial Interior
46
Aeronautical
Panels
Euro-Composites,
International,
Germany
Honeycomb- Wood Based,
Metal Based, and Plastic
Based - A non-metallic,
lightweight and extremely
rigid sandwich panel
formed of ECA Honey
comb core with a skin
specialized to suit airplane
construction. The ECA core
has an extremely high
strength-to-weight ratios. It
is also electrically and
thermally insulating,
chemically and corrosion as
well as shock and fatigue
resistant. The ECA-core is
easy to form and is self-
extinguishing.
Aircraft- The structural
panel is used for air plane
floors, ceilings, and
helicopter blades.
Varies Honeycomb - ECA Varies Structural Commercial Interior +
Exterior
81

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
45
Honeycomb panels Up to 13'-6“
high, 8' wide
and 53' long
Floors, vault
cover
More
expensive
than heavy
weight panels
Bellcomb Technologies
Incorporated
70 North 22nd Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55411
www.bellcomb.com
Thomas
Register
46
Aeronautical
Panels
Width (L) :
48” ±2“
Length (W):
96” ±3“
0.12” Aircraft
interiors;
Helicopter
blades
Meeting FAR and ATS
requirements,
depending on specs
International EURO-COMPOSITES®
S.A.
B.P.24
Zone Industrielle
Newport
Partners
research-
Mark
L-6401 Echternach Nowak
G.D. Luxembourg
www.euro
301-889
0017
composites.com
82

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
47
Dimensionally
Stable CFRP
Sapem,
International,
Russia
Honeycomb- Metal Based -
A sandwich honeycomb
panel with skins from epoxy-
based CFRP (carbon fiber
reinforced plastic)
Aeronautics- This structural
panel is used to construct
satellites and space
stations.
Plastic - CFRP Honeycomb Structural Aeronautics External
48
Honeycomb (also
makes SIPs, fire-
rated mineral fiber
panels, injected
foam panels,
laminated panels,
framed panels, and
foam glass panels.
Foamglass panels
worth looking into.)
Panel Projects,
International, UK
Honeycomb- Metal Based
and Plastic Based - A
structural panel with various
facing and core options.
Facing options include:
steel, coated steel,
aluminum, stainless steel,
and PVC. Honeycomb core
options are: aluminum,
polycarbonate,
polypropylene, and paper.
Building- The structural
panels are used in
buildings, boats and ferries,
aerospace, and interior
paneling.
Varies- Steel,
Coated Steel,
Aluminum,
Stainless Steel,
and PVC
Varies-
Honeycomb
options: Aluminum,
Polycarbonate,
Polypropylene, and
Paper
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Interior +
Exterior
49
In-Sulate
Ex-Sulate
AGILE Building
Systems, USA, PA
SIP- Plywood/OSB/
Gypsum/Foam Core - In-
Sulate - Laminated panels
made of gypsum board and
rigid polyisocyanurate foam
insulation.
Ex-Sulate - Laminated
urethane foam and exterior
cement-bonded particle
board.
These products reduce
thermal bridging through
framing in addition to
generally adding insulating
value and a moisture
barrier.
Building - A nonstructural
residential interior- or
exterior-surface insulation
and moisture barrier
system, applied to the
existing wall.
Gypsum (In-
Sulate) OR
Cement Bonded
Particle Board (Ex-
Sulate): These
materials are only
the skin on the
exposed side of
the panel system.
Insulation - Poly
isocyanurate OR
Urethane
Mechanical fasteners and
adhesive.
Non-
structural
Residential +
Commercial
Interior (In-
Sulate) OR
Exterior (Ex-
Sulate)
83

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
47
Dimensionally
Stable CFRP
Satellites and
space
stations
Russia
www.advtech.ru/english
Web
48
Honeycomb (also
makes SIPs, fire-
rated mineral fiber
Varies Varies Buildings,
boats and
ferries,
Portview Road
Avonmouth Bristol
BS11 9LQ
Web Make various types of
panels, see website for
more info,
panels, injected
foam panels,
laminated panels,
framed panels, and
foam glass panels.
Foamglass panels
worth looking into.)
aerospace,
and interior
paneling.
United Kingdom
E-mail:
sales@panelprojects.co
m
Telephone: +44 (0)117
316 7020
www.panelprojects.com
www.panelprojects.com
49
In-Sulate
Ex-Sulate
In-Sulate- 4'
X 8' to 4' X 16
Ex-Sulate- 4'
In-Sulate - ?
Ex-Sulate- 1“
to 4” foam
Walls ASTM E-84, ASTM C
273, ASTM D 1623
ASTM C 518, ASTM D
3500 West Fourth Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
0126
Bill
Zoeller
X 8' to 4' X
10'
1621. Approved by any
and all codes that apply,
BOCA
717-326-5640
www.agilebuildingsyste
ms.com
agilesys@earthlink.net
emailed for info 11/18
84

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
50
StormRoom DuPont, USA SIP- Plastic - The high
strength panels constructed
with a skin of Kevlar, a
material typically used for
cold storage appliances,
and are insulated with
Styrofoam and plywood.
Building - A structural
residential wall and
enclosure system to protect
against impact from flying
objects in a tornado.
Kevlar Styrofoam +
Plywood
Steel connecting system.
Panels must sit on a
concrete floor and be
anchored down.
Structural Residential Interior
51
Versa-King, Pivot-
Lock
Warehouse
Equipment and
Supply Company,
USA, AL
SIP- Plastic - An insulated
laminated wall panel with a
solid polystyrene core for R
13 insulation rating and
superior sound attenuation.
Building - A structural
industrial panel wall system
used for the construction of
interior modular storage
buildings.
Vinyl + Laminated
Wood Fiber Board
Polystyrene Versa-King - screwed
together
Pivot-Lock - pivot and lock
together.
Structural Industrial Interior
52
High Performance
Sandwich Panels
Diab, USA,TX SIP- Plywood/OSB/
Gypsum/Foam Core -
Lightweight sandwich
panels comprised of
various skins and core
materials. Skins include
three-ply Okume plywood,
1205 e-glass/polyester, 8
10 oz. e-glass, and fabric
epoxy prepreg. Core
materials include dinidyell
or probalsa.
Furniture + Recreational-
This high-strength panel is
used for the construction of
furniture, bulkheads and
cabin structures.
Variety- Three-ply
Okume Plywood,
1205 e-glass /
polyester, 8-10 oz.
E-glass, fabric
epoxy
Variety-Cored with
either Divinycell
(foam) or
ProBalsa.
Commercial Exterior +
Interior
85

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
50
StormRoom 4' X 6' to 8' X
8'
7“ Tornado
shelter
enclosure
system,
including 4
walls and a
roof.
$4,000 to
$8,000 for
completed
room
Manufactured in Texas
and Oklahoma
Spoke with a DuPont
Representative
Builder
Magazine
, February
2003
Door must meet CEMA
320 size requirements to
meet its criteria for use as
a tornado shelter.
51
Versa-King, Pivot-
Lock
Pivot-Lock-
typically 8' X
12'. Versa-
King- ?
Typically 3” Interior
modular
building or
storage area.
Regional Sales Office
Montgomery, AL 36106
Phone 800-239-3434
www.warehouseequipm
ent.com
(205) 942-1900
sales@warehouseequip
Versa-King has built in
wiring chase every four
feet and snap on wiring
covers. Both systems allow
for easy replacement of
panels.
ment.com
52
High Performance
Sandwich Panels
Furniture,
decks,
bulkheads,
cabin
ASTM tested International 315, Seahawk Drive,
DESOTO, Texas
75115154 Tel (972) 228
7600
Thomas
Register
structures,
etc.
info@diabgroup.com
http://www.diabgroup.co
m
86

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
53
Full Width Masonry Advanced Masonry
Technology, Inc.,
USA, OH
Masonry - The panel
system is full width
masonry - a wall of bricks
reinforced with horizontal
and vertical steel. The
prefabricated brick wall had
epoxy-coated steel running
horizontally and vertically
throughout. Some wall
systems have galvanized
studded steel backing and
foil faced mineral wool
insulation, creating an
effective air barrier.
Building - A structural
commercial exterior wall
system.
Masonry Masonry + Metal:
Steel running
horizontally and
vertically
throughout the wall
system.
Panel to panel -soft joint
connections, designed for
individual jobs. Gravity
frame connections every
thirteen feet.
Structural Commercial Exterior
54
Composite Wall Kessel
Construction,
USA, PA
SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core - A
composite sandwich panel
with Celotex rigid insulation
and metal skin. This is a
liner panel system.
Building - A nonstructural
commercial and industrial
interior wall system.
Metal Celotex, rigid Non-
structural
Commercial +
Industrial
Interior
55
ReZist-It Building
Systems
GloPac, USA, CA SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core - A
metal framed, cement
board exterior panel
encapsulating urethane
insulating core.
Building - This structural
panel is used to construct
residential and commercial
walls.
Cement Board +
Meta, cement
slurry is poured
into a G-60
galvanized steel
frame
Urethane Top and bottom steel strut.
Steel rod locked down with
a unistrut.
Structural Residential /
Commercial
Interior /
Exterior
87

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
53
Full Width Masonry 2-3 story
projects
Varies with
brick
manufacturer
Walls Most cost effective
within 600 mile radius
PO Box 878
Brunswick, OH 44212
330-225-9496
Steven
Winter
Good product for LEED
projects. Can easily
integrate with other panel
systems
54
Composite Wall Walls Bradford, PA. - Phone:
(814) 362-4696
www.kesselconst.com
Web
55
ReZist-It Building
Systems
Up to 4' wide
to 24' high
2 2/4“ and 4
1/2”
Walls Varies by
project
International Frank and Susanna
MacDonald 925-254
6619
glopac1@comcast.net
Automate
d Builder,
August
2003
Component manufacturer-
uses various panel
systems in projects. Just
created a joint venture with
various system
manufacturers to supply
the best affordable housing
in CA.
88

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
56
APT-O-Lite APT Industries Inc.,
USA, NC
SIP- Aluminum
Cladding/Foam Core
Aluminum sandwich panel
with an 2 1/2 lb. density
U.L. Class I
polyisocyanurate core. The
connecting systems creates
a tight seal between panels.
Ducts - The structural
panels are used to
construct insulating rooms
around ducts.
Metal - Aluminum Polyisocyanurate,
2 1/2 lb. density
U.L. Class I
Panels are joined by no-
thru metal extruded
aluminum structural
members. All panel joints
are sealed air and
watertight with a specially
formulated silicone sealer
and will be mechanically
fastened with drill point
screws or pop rivets.
Structural Industrial Interior
57
Panel Wall
Enclosures
Industrial Noise
Control, USA, IL
Steel- With Ribs - The
metal acoustical panel
system with
interchangeable panels is
made of 18 gauge solid
steel outer skin and welded
Building- The structural
panel is used for exterior
walls of commercial and
industrial facilities such as
interior office, control pits,
and shelters.
Steel Steel H-joiner, basically a sheet I-
beam connection with top
and bottom tracks
Structural Commercial +
Industrial
Interior
to an 18 gauge channel
frame and a core of 22
gauge perforated inner
skin.
58
Provide Dri-
Design®
Exterior
Technologies
Group, Inc., USA,
MI
Metal- The solid panels are
made of various types of
metal. The panel is a dry
joint, rain screen, pressure
equalized wall panel
system.
Building - A nonstructural
commercial wall surface,
rain screen system.
Metal, Varies:
aluminum,
rheinzink, copper,
stainless steel,
embossed
stainless, painted
aluminum
Metal, Varies:
aluminum,
rheinzink, copper,
stainless steel,
embossed
stainless, painted
aluminum
Panels have a dry joint
design with an integral
interlocking gutter. Panels
interlock and over lap to
create a rain-tight
connection. Corners are to
be welded.
Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
89

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
56
APT-O-Lite Approximatel
y 2.5“
Duct
insulation
P.O. Box 7486
Charlotte, NC 28241
(704) 598-9100
sales@aptair.com
www.aptair.com
Thomas
Register
2” thickness of acoustical
fiber enclosed in a
perforated aluminum liner
for sound dampening
57
Panel Wall
Enclosures
Noise control,
Personnel
shelters
Control
401 Airport Road • North
Aurora, Illinois 60542
Phone: (800) 954-1998
sales@industrialnoiseco
Thomas
Register
pulpits
Soundproof
walls
ntrol.com
www.industrialnoisecontr
ol.com
Shop offices
Test cells
Machine
enclosures
emailed for info on
turnkey assembly 12/11.
Called gave me info
58
Provide Dri-
Design®
10' wide and
24“high
.063” for
panel
dimensions
from 30“ - 36”
and .080“ for
Walls Air ASTM E283 -
passed 6.24 psf
Water ASTM E331 -
passed 15.00 psf
Structural ASTM E330 -
P.O. Box 264
Zeeland, MI 49464
Call Direct: (616) 355
2970
E-mail: Sales@Dri-
Web Patents pending.
panel
dimensions
36”-48“.
passed 65 psf Design.com
www.dri-design.com
Overall depth
of panels to
be 1-¼”.
90

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
59
Deltec Deltec Homes,
USA, NC
Studs and Skins- Wood
Studs/ Wood or Drywall
Skins -Open wall system
with optional 1" foam board
insulation or fiberglass
batting. 2x4 or 2x6 wall
construction with double
2x10 headers on all wall
panels. Skin is spruce or
Southern Yellow Pine wood
with optional foam board or
fiberglass batting.
Building- Structural panel
used for residential exterior
walls.
Wood Optional Foam
Board or
Fiberglass Batts
and wood framing
Panels connected using a
strapping system that is
nailed down.
Structural Residential External
60
Forest Homes Forest Homes,
USA, PA
Studs and Skins- Wood
Studs/ Wood or Drywall
Skins -Open wall system
with OSB sheathing and 2
X 4 framing. Each panel is
equipped with insulated
windows and predrilled for
electrical wiring.
Building- Structural panel
system used for residential
exterior and interior walls.
OSB Wood- 2 X 4
framing
Panels are nailed together.
Panels span floor joists
and are nailed down.
Mechanical fasteners are
used to strap panels on-
varies regionally, built to
code
Structural Residential Exterior +
Interior
61
Environmental
Enclosure
National Partitions,
USA, FL
Panels are seamless in
height and are 3-ply
sandwich construction.
Facings of 26 gauge G90
hot-dip galvanized steel
with smooth white finish.
Building- Structural panel
system used for rooms that
need precise temperature,
humidity and contamination
control.
Steel Polystyrene or
optional
isocyanurate
Bolted to connecting posts.
Fasteners are concealed
and panels are easily
removed.
Structural Commercial Interior
They are pre-painted with
baked acrylic enamel and
have a thermal insulated
core of polystyrene or
optional isocyanurate for
energy efficiency up to R
44.
91

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
59
Deltec Width of 8'
Height of 8',
9' 10'
6 5/8“ or 8
5/9”
Wall 30-35$/ sq ft International 604 College Street
Asheville, NC 28801
800-642-2508
Spoke with a project
Mgr. 11/17
www.deltechomes.com
NAHB
Building
Systems
Council
Polygonal shape. Although
the walls are load baring,
they do not bare a load
because the roof is self
supporting.
60
Forest Homes Varies by
project
4-9/16“ with
drywall
Wall Varies with
project
Built to regional code Northeast and Mid
Atlantic
RR 1, Box 131k
Route 522
Selinsgrove, PA 17870
Phone: 800-872-1492
Alex
Grinnell
Fax: 570-374-6093
61
Environmental
Enclosure
40' high 3”-6" Environmenta
l enclosures
305.822.3721 • 340 W.
78th Rd Hialeah, FL
33014
www.n-p.com
Thomas
Register
92

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
62
DuFLEX Thai-Kiwi Marine
Company Limited,
International,
Thailand
Honeycomb- Wood Based -
Panels made of high-fiber
fraction composite
materials laminated with a
high performance epoxy
resin reinforced with
multiaxial E-glass or carbon
fiber, and peel-plied. The
core is a phenolic
impregnated paper
honeycomb. The skin is a
rigid end grain balsa w/
structural linear or cross
linked foam.
Boat- The structural panel
is used to construct
recreation boats, walls and
floor.
Wood, a rigid
balsa + Foam
Honeycomb,
phenolic
impregnated paper
honeycomb
Z-Joint on both edges; a
Z-Press is used to adhere
the panels
Structural Recreational External
63
PolyCore- FRP Contemporary
Storage Systems,
USA, NY
Plastic- A high impact
polypropylene copolymer
substrate panel. The panel
is a corrugated/fluted core
panels made of FRP (fiber
reinforced plastic) board.
Building - A nonstructural
commercial, industrial,
institutional and agricultural
interior wall system.
FRP + Plus, finish
as desired.
FRP Non-
structural
Commercial +
Industrial +
Agricultural
Interior
93

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
62
DuFLEX Standard size
4' x 8'
Boats phone
[6636] 231023
2/21 Soi 7, Phaholyothin
Road, Saraburi 18000,
Thailand
boat@thaiboating.com
www.thaiboating.com
Web
63
PolyCore- FRP Width: 3', 4' &
5'
Lengths: 5',
6', 8', 9', 10' &
Interior walls
and ceilings
of
institutional,
PO Box 29- 892 Route
11
Kirkwood, NY 13795
888-673-8540
Web
12' agricultural,
commercial
and industrial
info@cssystems.us
www.cssystems.us
buildings
where
sanitation,
durability,
aesthetics
and safety
are critical.
94

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
64
Prestowall Design Affordable Building
Systems, USA,
Texas
Straw -Prestowall panels
are long fibrous soft red or
white wheat straw extruded
with heat and pressure to
create a high-density,
durable, and fire-resistant
product. The natural resins
of the wheat create an
extremely strong panel that
can withstand a heavy
impact.
Building- The nonstructural
panel is used in
replacement of drywall.
Reduces the need for
additional studs with steel
frame construction.
Paper - Recycled Straw Nailed down to bottom
plate and connected
together with connection
disks and adhesives
NonStructural Unspecified Interior
65
R-Control R-Control Building
Systems- licensed
to local
manufacturers,
USA, International
SIP- Plywood/OSB/
Gypsum/Foam Core - A
strong structural system
consisting of Perform
Guard Expanded
Polystyrene (EPS)
insulation laminated to
Building- A structural
systems used for walls,
roofs, and floors in all types
OSB EPS- Perform
Guard Expanded,
termite resistant
Diamond snap-tie
connectors
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
oriented strand board
(OSB) forming a structural
panel. The EPS is coated
with a termite resistant
product.
95

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
64
Prestowall Design Varies by
project
2-1/4“ Walls ASTM tested for various
specs
2750 State Hwy 160 S
Whitewright, Texas
75491
Toll Free 866.364.1198
www.affordablebuildings
ystems.com
Web
65
R-Control 4' X 8' to
8' X 24'
4.5”, 6.5“,
8.25”, 10.25“,
12.25”
Residential
and
commercial
Varies by
region
No CFCs,
HCFCs,
HFCs or
See print out for details USA, Japan, UK Local Manufacturer
Branch River Foam
Plastics
Web
walls, roofs,
and floors
including
office
formaldehyde
. Energy Star
Partner
15 Thurber Blvd.
Smithfield, RI, USA,
02917
800-336-3626
buildings,
schools,
emailed for info, 11/5
churches,
apartments,
strip malls,
and
community
buildings.
96

97
Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
66
Insulspan Insulspan, USA, ID SIP- Plywood/OSB/
Gypsum/Foam Core -
Panel are made of an
Expanded Polystyrene
(EPS) core bonded
between two outer layers of
rugged Oriented Strand
Board (OSB). Contains one
pound of Expanded
Polystyrene (EPS) for every
cubic foot of core.
Building- The panel is
suitable for many
residential and commercial
building applications. They
are solid, one-piece
structural components that
can be used in walls, floors
and roofs.
OSB EPS- one Lb for
every cubic foot of
core
Nailed together. The use of
USP structural connectors
are recommended. See
binder.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
67
Murus Murus, USA, PA SIP- Plywood/OSB/
Gypsum/Foam Core -
Panels available as
polyurethane (PUR) panel
with unique tongue and
groove edge profile and
patented cam-lock
connectors. Also available
is the Expanded
Polystyrene (EPS) panel.
Both panel types are
available in various
Building- Structural panel
used for residential and
commercial exterior wall,
roof, and floors.
OSB Varies- PUR or
EPS
PUR- Cam-locking
Connector works with the
tongue and groove edge
profile. Once one or two
locks are engaged, the
panel is supported
correctly in place and is
ready to be secured to the
framing members.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
thicknesses, lengths and
skin configurations. Both
panels are sheathed with
OSB.
68
Agriboard Agriboard,
engineered by
Raytheon
Engineers and
Constructors,
Straw -A panel system with
a core made of
compressed agricultural
fibers (wheat, rice, straw)
and an OSB skin. The fiber
Building- Structural panel
used for residential exterior
and interior walls, floors,
and roofs. Panels are also
used in commercial
OSB Agrifibers- wheat,
rice, straw
Nail (* see print out for
more)
Structural Residential +
Commercial +
Industrial
Exterior +
Interior
USA, TX board incorporates a
natural mineral to resist
construction
termites, carpenter ants
and other pests. The board
provides up to a 2-hour fire
resistance.

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
66
Insulspan 4' X 8' to 8' X
24'
3.5“ or 5.5” Walls, roofs,
and floors.
No CFC's use
in production.
Free from
volatile
formaldehyde
National Evaluation
Report # NER-520. See
binder.
Also sold in Japan due
to earthquakes.
www.insulspan.com Web and
SWA
The strength of this
adhesive makes these
panels structurally
analogous to an I-beam.
Nailable
67
Murus PUR- 4' X 4',
6', 8', 9', 10',
12', 14',
16',18', 20'.
EPS- 4' X 8',
9', 10', 12',
14', 16',18',
20', 24'
PUR-4-1/2“, 5
1/2” & 6-1/2“.
EPS-4-1/2”, 6
1/2“, 8-1/4”,
10-1/4“ and
12-1/8”
Walls, roofs
and floors
International Email: murus@epix.net
PO Box 220 Rt. 549
Mansfield, PA 16933
570-549-2100
www.murus.com
Spoke with Chris Bloom,
Sales Rep. 11/11.
Web Molded Tongue and
Groove Edge Profile
assures quick, proper
alignment of panel-to-panel
joints. - FIND NOTES AND
PRINT OUTS
68
Agriboard up to 9' long
and 24' wide
4-3/8“ to 7
7/8”
Walls, roofs,
and floors.
$5.50 to
$8/ft2
All natural
insulation,
and non-toxic
and non
corrosive.
* see print out regarding
certifications
P.O Box 151 Bectra, TX
76360 940-495-3590
www.agriboard.com
fcoble@agriboard.com.
Sent email 11/11
Automate
d Builder,
Novembe
r 2002
Primarily Residential
98

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
69
ThermaSteel ThermaSteel,
USA, VA
SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core - A
panel with a core of EPS
and framed with 24-gauge,
G-90 galvanizing steel,
typically finished on interior
with appropriate gypsum
composite although any
type of cladding may be
field applied to the interior
and exterior sides of the
panel similar to traditional
construction methods.
Building - Used for
structural residential and
commercial interior or
exterior wall systems.
Metal + EPS,
Structural grade
double steel frame,
and EPS core is
exposed over
major area of
panel.
EPS + Metal
Studs, Steel “C”
studs, thermally
broken, @ 16“o.c.
Shiplap joints and self-
tapping tech screws.
Preferred method: metal
tracks for top and bottom
plate.
Structural Residential +
Commercial +
Industrial
Interior /
Exterior
70
Structure Wall,
Wood Clad
Winterpanel, USA,
VT
SIP- Plywood/OSB/
Gypsum/Foam Core -
Comprise of 7/16” OSB, 3
11/16“ polyisocyanurate, a
minimum 2-lb/ft3 density,
Class I, closed-cell foam.
Building- A structural panel
used for the construction of
interior and exterior
residential wall
construction.
OBS, 7/16” Isocyanurate, 3
11/16" +
Polyisocyanurate,
a minimum 2-lb/ft3
density
Spline, nail and expanding
foam sealant
Structural Residential Exterior
The foam insulation
contains no formaldehyde
or formaldehyde-related
chemicals.
99

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
69
ThermaSteel 4' X 8', 10',
12'
3.5', 5.5', 7.5' Panels made
for
foundations,
floors, walls,
roofs and
ceilings
Quoted
based on
architectural
spec's for
specific
project
Energy Star,
100%
recyclable
steel and
EPS
ICC-ES, ICBO, BOCA,
SBCCI, and HUD.
International 609 West Rock Road,
Radford, VA 24141
USA
Phone: 1-540-633-5000
Fax: 1-540-731-3712
www.thermasteelcorp.co
m
Web
70
Structure Wall,
Wood Clad
48“ X 8, 9,
10, 12, 14,
16, 18, 20,
4-9/16”, 5
9/16“, 6-9/16”
Residential,
light
commercial
WINTER PANEL
CORP.
74 Glen Orne Drive,
Jackie
Lampiasi,
Davis
22, 24 Brattleboro, VT 05301 Frames
(802) 254-3435 • Fax:
(802) 254-4999
sales@winterpanel.com
100

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
71
Pacemaker
Plastics Co., Inc
Pacemmaker
Plastics Co., Inc,
USA, OH and PA
SIP- Comprised of APA
rated OSB facers
adhesively bonded to UL
certified expanded
polystyrene (EPS)
insulation cores. (R-16) to
12 9/16” (R-45) to meet
insulation and structural
requirements.
Building- A structural panel
system used for exterior
walls and floors in all
building types.
OSB-APA rated EPS- UL certified Nail base-Long screws Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
72
Korwall Korwall, USA, TX SIP- Korwall Foam Core
Panels are structural
building components made
with two layers of wafer
board laminated under
pressure to a core of
expanded polystyrene
(foam).
Building- A structural panel
system used for the
construction of residential
exterior walls, roofs, and
floors. Widely used across
the US.
OSB- wafer board EPS Lumber spline Structural Residential +
Commercial
Interior (?) +
Exterior
73
Norse Building
Systems
Norse Building
Systems, USA, WI
SIP- Panels are
constructed with 7/16“ OSB
exterior sheathing glued
and nailed with fiberglass
insulation – R-19. Walls are
Building- Structural panel
system used for residential
exterior walls.
OSB and GWB
Interior
Insulation -
Fiberglass + Vapor
Barrier
Structural Residential Exterior
framed with 2 X 6 – 16” o.c.
and have 2 X 6 – bottom
plate and double top plate.
All panels have an
infiltration barrier house
wrap (Tyvek). Where
available, panels come with
siding installed.
101

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
71
Pacemaker
Plastics Co., Inc
4' X 8' to
8' X 28'
4 9/16“ to 12
9/16”
Used as
roofs, exterior
walls, and
floors in
virtually all
building types-
religious, fast
food,
educational,
residential,
and light
commercial
$3 per sq. ft.
for a 4-1/2“
panel and
typically add
$.40 for each
step up in
thickness.
NER and
Comprehensive Testing
Program reports
available on line
emailed for info, 11/5
126 New Pace Road
P.O. Box 279
Newcomerstown, OH
43832-0279
Ph: 1-800-446-2188
info@pacemaker.com
Web
72
Korwall Up to 8' X 24' 4”, 6“, 8”, 10“,
12”
Floor, wall,
and roof
National and
International
326 N. Bowen Road
Arlington, TX 76012
(817) 277-6741 FAX:
(817) 277-6743
www.korwall.com
Automate
d Builder,
February
2002
73
Norse Building
Systems
8’ height Wall Minnesota, Wisconsin,
and Upper Midwest
1100 Barnett Rd.
Ladysmith, WI 54848
715-532-0600
sales@norsehomes.com
,pmyers@myersgroup.n
et emailed
for info11/17
www.norsehomes.com
NAHB
Building
Systems
Council
102

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
74
Better Building
Products
W.A. Brown, USA SIP- Panels are
manufactured in a solid
frame fixture allowing the
inclusion of structural metal
members, molded in
splines, and the Cam-Lock
closure, and the exterior
skins. The panels are
injected under pressure
with a two part urethane
foam that expands and fills
the core, bonding to the
exterior skins. Skins can be
various products including
OSB and metal
Building- The structural
panel is used for exterior
residential walls and
industrial storage facilities.
Varies- OSB,
Metal
Polyurethane Cam-lock Structural Residential +
Industrial
Exterior
75
SIP
Insul-Lam
Premier Building
Systems, USA,
WA
SIP- Panels consist of an
EPS core laminated
between two sheets of
engineered wood. These
panels are simple to install.
Featured on Bob Vila and
Habitat for Humanity, PBS
panels are the next
generation of engineered
building systems.
Building- Structural panels
used in floors, walls and
roofs from high end
residential (log homes,
timber frames and custom
homes) to affordable
housing and commercial
construction (schools,
hospitals, retirement
centers) as well as multi
family units. The Premier
Panels used in conjunction
with other engineered
systems and engineered
building products.
OSB EPS Panels are screwed
together with long screws.
Structural or
Nonstructural
Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
103

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
74
Better Building
Products
9' X up to 16' 4.5“ Walls /
freezers /
storage
structures
Varies with
project
Energy Star
Partner
National Reid Brodie 704-636
5131
rbrodie@wabrown.com
Sending information on
Monday 11/17
ICC-ES
75
SIP
Insul-Lam
4' X 8' up to 8'
X 24'
4”, 6“, and 8” Walls 4“ thick=
$3.12
Carry code reports from
national and
International Northwest Region
4609 70th Ave. E
ICC-ES
6” thick= international model Fife, WA 98424
$3.40
8“ thick =
$3.75
10”thick =
building authorities 800-275-7086
fife@pbspanel.com
Spoke with on 11/14
$4.00
12" thick =
$4.40
104

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
76
Panels-Plus
Post and Beam
Normerica,
International,
Canada
SIP- Panels-Plus- Panels
are 2 X 6“ site assembled
pre-engineered walls with
7/16” OSB, batt insulation,
Tyvek building paper, 1 X 3
strapping and 6mil poly
vapor barrier supplied for
site insulation
Post and Beam- Panels
are 2 x 4's with 7/16“ OSB,
1-1/2” of EPS insulation,
batt insulation, 1x 4
strapping and 6mil poly
vapor barrier supplied for
site installation.
Building- Panels-Plus are a
structural panel used in the
construction of residential
exterior walls. Post and
beam are a non-structural
panel used in the
construction of residential
exterior walls. Panels are
connected to large structure
supporting beams.
OSB Wood + Batt or
EPS. Panels-Plus-
2 X 6“ framing.
Post and Beam- 2
X 4” framing.
Structural
(Panels Plus)
or
Nonstructural
(Post and
Beam)
Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
105

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
76
Panels-Plus
Post and Beam
Varies by
project
Approximatel
y Panels-Plus
8“
Post and
Beam- 6”
Residential
wall and roof,
commercial
wall
150 Ram Forest Road
Gormley, Ontario
Canada
L0H 1G0
905-841-3161 Canada
& U.S. 1-800-361-7449
or send us e-mail at
info@normerica.com.
Emailed for info 11/17,
email was forwarded to
sales rep. 11/18
NAHB
Building
Systems
Council
106

107
Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
77
Snap-N-Lock
System
Structural Building
Systems, USA, FL,
LA, and TX
SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core - The
panel is made of expanded
polystyrene (EPS) foam
insulation sandwiched
between two structural
skins of steel. Skin options
include: custom laminated
from white or ivory .024 or
.032 stucco embossed
aluminum coil 3105-H-194,
.024 cedar wood grain
embossed aluminum coil
3105-H-194, .032 smooth
aluminum coil 3105-H-14 or
.26 gauge smooth or stucco
embossed coated
galvanized steel composite
The unique feature of this
system is the Snap-N-Lock
system used to snap panels
together.
Building- Structural system
currently used to construct
the exterior walls of
residential and commercial
buildings.
Metal-Aluminum,
laminated.024 or
.032 stucco
embossed 3105-H
194, .024 cedar
wood grain
embossed, coil
3105-H-194, .032
coil 3105-H-14 or
.26 gauge, or
stucco embossed
galvanized steel .
EPS Snap-n-Lock system with
sealant
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
78
ICS Insulated
Component
System, USA, NC
SIP- The structural panel is
composed of a variety of
skin materials including
OSB, fiber cement, fiber
reinforced plastic, plywood,
or metal. The panels are
insulated with two-part
polyurethane class 1 foam.
Door and window openings
can be pre-engineered into
a panel or as a factory
option. Panels are framed
with 2 X 4 and 2 X 6 wood
Building- The structural
panel is used for
residential, commercial,
and industrial external
walls. What is interesting
about this systems is that
the panels are constructed
in varying angles. There is
a 90deg and 130deg panel
available for the various
corners and building
shapes.
Varies- OSB, Fiber
Cement, Fiber
Reinforced Plastic,
Plywood, or Metal
Two-part
Polyurethane
Class 1 foam, and
2 X 4 and 2 X 6
wood framing.
Cam-Lock-Double spline
on each side that fits into
the adjacent panel
Structural Residential
+Commercial +
Industrial
Exterior
framing.

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
77
Snap-N-Lock
System
up to 32' in
length
2“-8” Walls ASTM-1929, ASTM-119,
ASTM-E84-95, ASTM
A527 #G-90
350 Burbank Road
Oldsmar, FL 34677
800-969-3706
www.structall.com
Web
78
ICS Maximum
width 4'.
Maximum
height 16'
3“, 4-1/2”,
and 6-1/2"
Walls,
schools,
storage
homes
Energy Star
Rated
(Panels are
not rated,
they can only
be ES
partners)
323 Farmington Road
Mocksville, NC 27028
(336) 940-2575 • Fax:
(336) 940-2508
info@ics-sips.com
www.ics-sips.com
Automate
d Builder,
February
2003, pg
14
108

109
Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
79
FISCHERSIP® FischerSIPS, Inc.,
USA, KT
SIP- Two sheets of oriented
strand board (OSB), with
expanded polystyrene foam
laminated between them.
The panel gets its strength
because the OSB and foam
act together as a structural I
beam.
Building- A structural panel
system used for the
construction of exterior
residential building walls.
OSB EPS foam Panel Screws
Panel Caulk
Expanding Foam Sealant
Structural Residential Exterior
80
Sol Univision S.A.,
International,
Greece
SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core -Sol is a
light weight Sol is a
composite insulated panel
made from two skins of
Building- Structural system
currently used for the
exterior walls of storage
facilities for animals, boats,
food etc.
Metal - Steel, two
skins of coated,
galvanized steel
Polyurethane Structural +
Non-
structural
Commercial +
Agricultural +
Recreational
Exterior +
Interior
coated, galvanized steel
with a core of polyurethane
insulation. Panels are
designed to span between
main steel column
externally or from floor to
ceiling when used for
internal partition walls.
They are manufactured
according to international
standards.
81
Thermal Panel Eagle Panels,
USA, OH
SIP- Mineral Fiber - A steel
insulated closed wall
panels. Two sheets of
either galvanized or
aluminized carbon steel
Refrigeration- The
structural panels are used
for the construction of
refrigeration and heating
units.
Steel, Galvanized
or Aluminum
Carbon Steel and
Stainless Steel
Mineral Fiber Tongue and Groove. Also
featuring “ThermalTrak”
perimeter channel design
for superior heat transfer
reduction.
Structural Industrial Interior
and stainless steel
surround an insulating
mineral fiber. The panel is
supported with vertical steel
channels.

110
System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
79
FISCHERSIP® 4' x 8' up to 4'
x 16'
Wall 1843 Northwestern
Parkway - Louisville,
Kentucky 40203
Phone: (800) 792-SIPS
(7477)
Fax: (502) 778-0508
E-Mail:
sales@fischersips.com
emailed for info 11/17
NAHB
Building
Systems
Council
“wood, drywall and nail
base”
80
Sol Storage
areas, barns,
Use
“environment
93 El.Venizelos Str.,
Chania, Crete, 731 32,
Web
boat storage,
arenas,
swimming
pools.
ally friendly
technology”
GREECE. Tel: (0821)
69-368, 54-825. Fax:
(0821) 52-416.
http://www.angelfire.com
/biz/steelframe/panels.ht
ml or
http://www.angelfire.com
/biz/steelframe/
81
Thermal Panel Varies by
project
2“-10” Industrial cold
or hot
storage.
2500 Brookpark Road,
Cleveland, OH 44134
800.988.0632
info@eaglepanels.com
www.eaglepanels.com
Thomas
Register

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
82
Hurricane
Resistant Textured
Wall Panels
Structural
Northwest, USA,
ID
Steel- A layered panel with
a textured elastomeric
interior finish, cement board
layer, insulation layer, and
a steel exterior wall panel.
Building - A nonstructural
commercial exterior wall
system.
Steel +
Elastomeric
interior finish
Cement Board +
Insulation
Drilled to framing. Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
83
Modutherm Dynabilt, USA, FL Steel- A panel composed of
a polymeric insulated core
and galvanized steel skin.
Building - A structural
residential interior and
exterior wall system.
Steel, galvanized. Insulation,
polymeric
Structural Residential Exterior
84
Energy Lok
(Also make SIPs)
Energy Panel
Systems is a
division of the
MacArthur
Company, USA, IA
Steel- A panel constructed
of EPS sandwiched
between G90 galvanized
steel, with 20 year
siliconized polyester paint
Building - A structural
commercial and industrial
exterior wall system.
Steel , G90
galvanized - with
20 year siliconized
polyester paint
system.
EPS Tongue and groove Structural Commercial +
Industrial
Exterior
system.
85
Tempcon Zamil Steel,
International, Saudi
Arabia
SIP- Steel/Metal
Sheet/Foam Core - A
sandwich steel wall panel
with injected polyurethane.
The rigid foam core has a
density of 40 kg/m3.
Building - A nonstructural
commercial exterior wall
system.
Steel, pre-painted Polyurethane,
Foamed-in-place
“Self drilling” fasteners. Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
86
Econ/O/Cold Refrigerator
Manufacturing Inc.
(RMI), USA, CA
Steel- A steel skins,
foamed in place
prefabricated panel.
Building - A structural
industrial interior
refrigeration wall panel
system.
Metal, Varies:
aluminum,
stainless steel or
galvanized steel
sheet surface, fully
adhered to core.
Urethane: Foamed
in place
Cam-action-locks Structural Industrial Interior
111

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
82
Hurricane
Resistant Textured
Wall Panels
40' long, 18'
20' wide
1.5“ Walls PO Box 592
Boise, ID 83701
208-280-1840
Web
83
Modutherm Walls Energy Star
partner
SWA
84
Energy Lok
(Also make SIPs)
46” wide by
up to 55' long
Walls Graettinger, IA 51342
Phone 800-967-2130
www.epsbuildings.com
Rural
Builder
Magazine
, Scott
SIPs are for residential.
Tapa
85
Tempcon Varies by
project
65 mm, 80
mm, 105 mm
and 130 mm
Walls www.zamilsteel.com
emailed a from from
website 11/18
966 (3) 847 1840
PEBMarketing@ZamilSt
eel.com
Web
86
Econ/O/Cold Varies by
project
4“-6” Walk-in
refrigeration
units.
323-838-5506
7421 Slauson Avenue,
Commerce, California,
Web
90040, USA
Information: sales@rmi
econocold.com
www.rmi-econocold.com
112

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
87
Acsys Panel
System (R-Steel
System)
Acsys Inc., USA,
ID 

Aluminum/Steel- Rib
System, Steel- An insulated
steel-core wall panel made
of 16-20 gauge galvanized
corrugated structural core
welded to a top and bottom
18 gauge galvanized steel
track. A 18 gauge
galvanized steel tracks
embedded in expanded
polystyrene skin using a
specialized molding
process.
Building - A structural
residential and commercial
exterior insulating panel
wall system.
EPS EPS + Metal, 16
20 gauge
Panels slide together to
mate the “ship-lap” joint
with the adjacent panel.
Panels are screwed in
place using a self-drilling
screw at the top bottom
and mid section of panel.
The product is supplied
with the mounting track,
fasteners, and corner
connectors.
Structural Residential +
Commercial
Exterior
88
Soloflex Wall
System
Soloflex
Corporation, USA,
OR
Steel- Steel Studded wall
system, sheathed and
unsheathed
Building- Structural panels
system. Out of business
due to codes. The panel
was designed by an
exercise equipment
company. Panel appears
durable.
Steel-steel studs Nailed Structural
113

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
87
Acsys Panel
System (R-Steel
System)
2' and 4' food
widths and up
to 18' long.
6“-12” Walls ASTM E455
ASTM 1592
ASTM C578
1677 E Miles Ave. Suite
101
Hayden, ID 83835
(208) 772-6422
Fax: 208-772-5942
acsys@acsys.net
www.acsys.net
Web
88
Soloflex Wall
System
Length- 1', 2',
3', 4' Height
up to 8'
503-640-8891
Stuart Wilson
Phone tag, left message
11/20
Automate
d Builder,
February
2002
Out of business due to
codes and trades people.
Technology may still be of
use.
114

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
89
LEEP- CORE, &
LEEP Free
Standing
Frameless Building
System using
LEEP- CORE
LEEP (Leading
Earth Edge
Products), USA,
PA
Steel- The panel is a 2'
wide, structural, lightweight,
composite material
component that is
configured as a highly
insulating, load-bearing,
structural building panel
.The panel is composed of
steel skins that sandwich a
polyurethane core.
LEEPCORE is used to
fabricate wall, roof and floor
sections for pre-engineered
buildings. The systems is
fire resistant, water proof,
rot, mildew and corrosion
resistant, termite proof, and
wind and seismic force
resistant.
Building - A structural
residential and commercial
interior and exterior wall,
floor and roof panel system.
Steel, polyester
coated
“galvanized”
surfaced.
Polyurethane Structural Residential /
Commercial
Interior /
Exterior
90
Operable Patrician
6000
Hufcor, USA, WI Steel- The panel is
constructed with a steel
frame and skin. It is filled
with an acoustical
substrate. The panel is
moveable on tracks.
Partician- This
nonstructural panel is used
for interior room separation.
Often used in conventions
centers and areas of high
stress. This panel is
durable.
Steel Steel frame,
acoustical
substrate.
Interlocking vertical seals.
A slight turn of a handle
activates the locking of the
seals
Non-
structural
Commercial Interior
115

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
89
LEEP- CORE, &
LEEP Free
Standing
Frameless Building
System using
LEEP- CORE
Up to 12'
long, 2' wide
4“ Walls, roofs
and floors
Non-toxic
earth friendly
ICBO ES AC04 and
ASTM E72. Reports
available on line
Pensylvania,Info@LEEP
inc.com emailed for
info, 11/10/03
Web Panel specs are online in
the testing reports
90
Operable Patrician
6000
60' high,
width
unlimited
4” Internal wall
partitions
Various ASTM testing
and registered with ISO
P.O. Box 591 / 2101
Kennedy Road
Janesville, Wisconsin
Thomas
Register
53547; 800-542-2371
Ext. 214
E-Mail-
info@hufcor.com
www.hufcor.com
116

117
Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
91
Stucc on Steel
Building System
Stucc on Steel,
USA, VA
Steel- The panel is framed
with a light gauge
galvanized steel and
receptor pockets. The
internal component is a self
setting expanded metal
lath, 20-22 gauge. On site
the panel is covered with
two layers of high-strength
structural coating. The
coating is a combination of
stucco and a new age
technology. Thermal
reflective foil is used for
added insulation, thermal
break between siding and
metal. Use gasket on studs
for thermal break and
sound control. This system
is currently under patent.
Building- Structural panel
used for the exterior wall
construction of residential,
commercial and industrial
buildings.
Steel Metal, Self-setting
expanded metal
lath, 20-22 gauge
Screw panels together.
Use stud and track to hold
panel down on the ground.
Structural Residential +
Commercial +
Industrial
Exterior
92
Anchorpanel Fast Track
Foundation
Systems, USA, CA
Aluminum/Steel- Rib
System, Steel- The panel
is made of heavy-duty
galvanized and polymer or
epoxy coated steel.
Building- The nonstructural
panel is currently used as a
foundation in residential
construction.
Polymer or Epoxy Steel, galvanized Interlock at at adjoining
edges.
NonStructural Residential Exterior
93
Thermotech 21 Techbuilt Systems
Inc., USA, OH
SIP- Stud - Thermotech
21™ panels are highly
insulated building panels
which have a core of EPS
supported with exterior and
interior steel framing
members made from 1“ x 2”
18 gauge galvanized
steel. Steel framing is 24“
o.c.
Building - A structural
residential exterior wall and
roof system.
EPS + Steel -
structural tubing /
framing
EPS The steel framing
members are joined
together with self-tapping
screws to provide a warp-
free integral structure.
Adjacent panels are joined
with top and bottom 1-1/2”
x 1-1/2" steel angles which
are secured with self-
tapping screw.
Structural Residential Exterior

118
System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
91
Stucc on Steel
Building System
Varies by
project
3-5/8“, 6”,
and 8“
Walls Varies with
project
International Donald Stevens
540-678-4159
contact@stucconsteel.c
om
Sending info on Monday
ICC-ES Use thermal reflective foil
for added insulation,
thermal break between
siding and metal. Use
gasket on studs for thermal
break and sound control.
Working on two additional
systems, patents in
progress--- Information on
new system available on
CD.
92
Anchorpanel Foundation
and above
grade
foundation
31078 Turner Road, Fort
Bragg, CA 95437 800
789-9694
www.fasttrackfoundation
Automate
d Builer,
January
2004
walls s.com
93
Thermotech 21 4' X 4' to 40' 7 1/4” Walls and
roofs
ASTM 119 941 Clark Avenue
Cleveland, Ohio 44113
Phone: 216-621-4340
Fax: 216-687-8780
Email:
info@techbuilt.com
Rob
Aldrich

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
94
Self Storage Panel Betco Inc., USA,
Eastern Half
Steel- Uninsulated solid 22
or 29 gauge steel panels,
having no substantial
thickness or insulating
properties.
Building - A nonstructural
commercial exterior wall
panel, to attach to wall.
Steel, 22 or 29
gauge
Steel, 22 or 29
gauge
Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
95
Multi Wall Sheets Crystalite
Incorporated,
USA, WA
Structured transparent
polycarbonate panel.
Building / Structures - A
nonstructural commercial
exterior glazing, roofing and
cladding system.
Polycarbonate Polycarbonate Connected to frame
structure with a four sided
clamp. All four edges of
panel must be clamped.
Non-
structural
Commercial Exterior
96
Open-built Bensonwood
Homes, USA, NH
The open-wall OSB panel
has a 16" on-center framing
and is insulated with
Building- This panel is used
in the construction of
external residential walls.
OSB Urethane Horizontal joints- gaskets,
vertical joints- gasket and
foam
NonStructural Residential Exterior
urethane. The panels
comes with wired chasing.
It is the framing of the
home that is load bearing
not the panel. This makes it
easier to change the skin of
the house while keeping the
same frame.
97
Ultratex Mantex, USA, MI The panel is made of
Ultratex, a
polyurethan/polyester
formulation. The Ultratex
can be used with various
skins such as drywall and
plywood. Ultratex can also
impregnate thin layers of
OSB greatly increasing its
strength. Ultratex is an
insulating, sound barrier,
and structural material.
Building-The structural
panel is used in the
construction of floors walls
and roofs of buildings that
need extra strength.
Varies- OSB,
Plywood, Drywall
Ultratex Structural Commercial Exterior +
Interior
119

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
94
Self Storage Panel Up to 36“
wide, cut to
any length
Large storage
facilities
Eastern half of US. 800-654-7813
www.betcoinc.com
Web
95
Multi Wall Sheets Varies by
project
1” Structural
ceilings such
as bus stops,
pavilions, etc.
3307 Cedar Street
Everett, WA 98201
(800) 666-6065
www.crystaliteinc.com
Web
96
Open-built Customizable
, up to 9'-6“ X
28'.
4.5” Walls Less material
wasted
emailed for info, 11/5
reply-already contacted
by HUD-11/7
Web Because each panel is cut
and configured with Open-
Built flanges first, including
all rough openings, only
the necessary areas are
insulated, eliminating the
usual waste.
97
Ultratex 4' X 8' and 5'
X 10'
1/4“, 3/8”,
1/2“, 5/8”,
3/4“, 7/8”, 1“,
1.5” and 2"
Floor, wall,
and roof
More
expensive
than wood,
but only
require one
layer of
material so
some cost is
absorbed.
Nontoxic Just starting up 611 Industrial Parkway
Imlay City MI, 48444
e-mail
sales@mantex.net or
call 800-66MANTX
Automate
d Builder,
October
2003
Sound dampening, sizes
tailored to job spec,
watherproof, fire resistant
and/or code rated
incombustible, waterproof,
mold and mildew proof,
light weight, non-toxic,
workable as wood, long
lasting
120

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
98
ThermalDRY-used
with existing
foundation
ProTech
T. Clear
Corporation, USA,
OH
ThermalDRY-A below
grade panel made of
Styrofoam brand insulation
with vertical and horizontal
drainage channels that
provide a path for moisture
to drain. A bonded filter
fabric covers the panel to
prevent these channels
from being blocked.
ProTech- An above grade
panel insulated with 4“
rigid insulation (made by
DOW) and covered with
1/4” of Util-A-Crete. Wire
chases cut into panels.
Building- Nonstructural
ThermalDRY is used in
below grade residential wall
construction. Pro Tech is
used in above grade
construction of residential
exterior walls.
Varies-
ThermalDRY-
Bonded fabric
ProTech- Util-A-
Crete
Styrofoam, made
by DOW
ThermalDRY-Tounge-and
groove ProTech-Steel H-
connection for panel to
panel, steel C-channel for
top and bottom. Panels are
nailed into steel.
Varies-
ThermalDRY-
Non-
structural
ProTech-
Structural
Residential Exterior
99
T-Mass
Precast
DOW, USA Concrete- Sandwich -
Using traditional concrete
form system Styrofoam
insulation is inserted and
Building - Structural panels
used for residential exterior
walls.
Concrete Styrofoam Varies with project and
type of concrete system.
Structural Residential Exterior
concrete is poured on either
side. Once concrete has
cured, remove forms.
Concrete held together with
composite connectors.
121

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
98
ThermalDRY-used
with existing
foundation
ProTech
ThermalDRY
2' X 8'
ProTech
width 3'
length 8 1/8',
9 1/8' and 10'
( to
accommodat
e internal
stick framing)
ThermalDRY
1“, 1.5”, 2.25“
ProTech- 4.5”
Walls International 2704 NY7
Valley Falls, NY
www.tclear.com
Brian Gleason
Dick Crawford 1800-544
7398 Spoke with him
11/20
ICC-ES,
Don
Carlson
Has wire ways cut in. HfH
projects.
99
T-Mass
Precast
Varies by
project
T-Mass-
concrete 4“,
insulation 2”
Walls Varies by
project
National Frederico Montaner
989-638-6337
Robb
Aldrich
SWA is working with T-
mass in Wisconsin.
Precast-
concrete 7“,
insulation 2”
122

123
System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
100
Versa Wall I
Versa Wall II
Pacific
Environmental
Technologies, Inc.,
USA, CA
Vera Wall I - The system
utilizes easy to configure
and install aluminum
extrusions to hold the
panels in place. The
system may be
reconfigured, expanded or
relocated . Different surface
finishes and core options
are available. The wall
system can be load bearing
under certain
configurations.
Versa Wall II - a structural,
steel sandwich modular
system for wall and ceiling
panels, specifically
manufactured for controlled
environmental applications.
Building - Both of the
systems are used for
commercial structural and
non-structural wall and
ceiling construction.
Buildings include
environmental and climate
controlled facilities.
Varies
- Melamine; Vinyl;
Fiberglass
reinforced plastic
;Aluminum ;Steel
;Stainless steel
;Antistatic coating
;Sheets of 20
gauge metal pre-
stiffened by tongue
and groove
construction.
Varies:
- Polystyrene
foam; Polystyrene
foam w/ 1/2“
gypsum wall board
on both sides;
Paper honeycomb
core (fire
retardant);
Aluminum
honeycomb;
Insulation -
Urethane
Vera Wall I - aluminum
extrusions
Vera Wall II- joined and
sealed by a silastic and
fastened together by
structurally approved
concealed metal screws.
Ninety degree (90°) corner
sections are used to
provide proper alignment
and additional strength.
Structural +
Non-
structural
Commercial Interior
101
Plywood Doors Todco, USA, NY Wood- A wood panel that
contains a patented
Transportation Core™- a
3/4”, 7-ply, premium-grade
plywood that forms the
foundation of our doors.
Panels have a hardwood
outer veneer that virtually
eliminates wood grain
“telegraphing,” giving a
smoother, more uniform
look that lasts.
Transportation- This strong
panel is used for cargo
truck doors.
Hardwood Plywood NonStructural Commercial Exterior

124
System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
100
Versa Wall I
Versa Wall II
Vera Wall I -
Heights - 8' to
16'
Wall heights
over 10 ft.
typically have
a splice joint
at 8' or 10'
Vera Wall II -
up to 20' clear
span
Vera Wall I-
2“
Vera Wall II-
3”, 4“, 5 ”or 6"
Walls Vera Wall I- Meets most
local building codes for
interior partition loads
and seismic conditions.
Manufactured to meet
the various code
requirements for flame
spread and smoke
development. Vera Wall
II-report RR-24961
135 Enterprise Court,
Corona, California,
92882
Phone: 909.582.9306 -
Fax: 909.582.9946
Toll Free Phone:
800.660.9676
Toll Free Fax:
800.581.7942
Inquiries:
info@peticleanair.com
Web
101
Plywood Doors Truck doors Affordable Dave Pettengill
5371 Dutch Hill Rd
Web Doors are equipped with
the TOUGHSHELL™
Hinsdale, New York
14743
Office: 716 557-02091
Emailed from website for
info 12/2
http://www.todco.com/ud
ef_floorsply.cfm
system. The system is a
multi-layered formulation of
liquid polymers that are
specifically designed to
work together on wood
substrates, and provide a
state-of-the-art defense
against moisture, abrasion,
temperature extremes,
harsh chemicals, even UV
damage. (Link was down,
may want to ask company
about this component)

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
102
Harvest Homes Harvest Homes,
Inc, USA, NY
Wood- An open wall
system- 2 X 6 studs at 16“
o.c., single sole & double
top plates, assembled into
panels with 7/16” OSB
sheathing applied. All door
and window units are
installed except bay and
bow window units, sliding
patio doors, and garage
service doors.
Building- Structural panel
system used in the
construction of residential
exterior walls.
OSB Wood- 2 X 6
framing
Structural Residential Exterior
103
No name yet,
under review for
patent
Big Timber Works,
USA, MT
Wood- An open wall timber
framed wall with the new
Open Stud component.
Open Stud is a structural
wall truss made of small
dimension lumber and
oriented strand board
Building- Structural panel
will be used for residential
external wall construction
Wood - Recycled Wood- Open Stud
framing, spray
foam insulation
upon request
No panel-to-panel
connection because panels
come in length of wall.
Corners are connected
beneath the overlapping
siding.
Structural Residential Exterior -
unknown if
interior
because
patent still
under review.
gussets glued into an I-joist
configuration. Will insulate
with spray foam upon
request
104
Northern Design Northern Design
Building
Associates, USA,
NY
Wood- Open wall 2 X 6
wood panel, not insulated.
Building- Structural panel
system used for residential
exterior walls.
OSB or PLYWD Wood- 2 X 6
framing; open wall
system
Entire wall constructed at
shop therefore no wall to
wall connections. Top and
bottom have plates that
attach them to floor and
Structural Residential Exterior
ceiling. Corners attached
on site with a turn stud
105
Octastructure Octa-Structure
International Inc.,
USA, FL
Wood- Open wall wood
panel
Building- Structural panel
used for the construction of
exterior residential and
commercial walls.
Wood Wood framing Panels are nailed together. Structural Residential +
Commercial
External
125

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
102
Harvest Homes 6“ Wall 185 Railroad Ave.
Delanson, NY 12053
0189
(518) 895-2341
info@harvesthomes.co
m
emailed for info 11/17
www.harvesthomes.com
NAHB
Building
Systems
Council
103
No name yet,
under review for
patent
Up to 49' long
and 12' tall
Varies with
insulation
requests
Wall Use recycled
wood
Local, MT and WY PO Box 368
Gallatin Gateway, MT
59730
406-763-4639
Nancy
Wilkins,
Timber
Frame
Use recycled wood,
technology pending patent.
www.bigtimberworks.co
m
Business
Council
btoffice@bigtimberworks
.com
Spoke with Merle
Adams
104
Northern Design Varies by
project
3/4” OSB Walls Varies by
project
Northeast, Mid-Atlantic,
International
PO Box 47 Hudson
Falls, NY 12839
Building
Systems
800-576-0557 Magazine
Spoke with Rep 11/20 , 9-10/03
105
Octastructure Varies by
project
Walls International 1-800-448-4062
2516 West 23rd St
Panama City, Fl 32405
www.octastructure.com
NAHB
Building
Systems
Council
126

System Name Manufacturer Description
Current & Potential
Application Skin Material Core Material Connections
Structural /
Non-
Structural
Residential /
Commercial /
Industrail
Interior /
Exterior
106
American Standard
Building System
American Standard
Building System,
USA
Wood- Open wall wood
panel with double top plates
and single bottom plates.
The skin and construction
is intermediate density
fiberboard. 2x4 studs 16"
on center framing
constructed with spruce-
pine-fir stud grade kiln
dried.
Building- Structural panel
used for the construction of
exterior and interior
residential walls.
Wood- MDF Wood- 2 X 4 studs Structural Residential External
107
Sliding and Folding
Wood Doors
Hafele,
International, USA,
Canada, and
Mexico
Wood- Sliding wood
panels.
Partician- This
nonstructural panel is used
for interior and exterior
movable walls. Used in
commercial applications.
Wood Wood Steel guide tracks NonStructural Commercial Interior +
Exterior
127

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
106
American Standard
Building System
Wall Wall sheathing-
complies with Federal
Spec #LLL-I-535B
USA, Canada,
Guatemala, Spain,
Canary Islands, Hawaii,
Korea, Taiwan, Japan,
Germany, Israel,
Argentina, Chile and
Caribbean Islands
www.asbsystems.com
emailed online
form11/17
Web
107
Sliding and Folding
Wood Doors
Maximum
height- 16“ 4
7/8”, width is
approximately
1/3 of height
2 1/4" www.hafeleamericas.
com
128

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
108
Wausau Homes,
Inc and Sterling
Building Systems
Wausau Homes
and Sterling
Building Systems,
USA, WI
Wood-System is comprise
of floor panels, interior &
exterior wall panels, and
roof trusses.Floor panels
use solid lumber joists or I-
joist, plywood or osb
sheathing plant
applied.Interior wall panels
are open frame.Exterior
wall panels are open frame
on the inside surface. The
outside surface has
plywood, osb or foam
sheathing & house-wrap
plant applied, windows &
entry doors plant installed
with weatherization
flashing.Engineered roof
trusses are designed for
continues load transfer and
is an integral part of the
whole-house design.
Building- The structural
panel system is used in
construction of residential
homes and light
commercial structures with
floors, walls and roofs.
Wood- frame
with panel
sheathing;
plywood, osb or
foam.
Wood framing Nails, spikes, plates,
hangers and other
conventional mechanical
fasteners. Meets
requirements for high wind
load design and foundation
anchorage.
Structural Residential +
Light
Commercial
Exterior +
Interior
109
Strong-Wall
Shearwall
Simpson Strong
Tie, USA, CA
Wood- This panel is an
open wall prefabricated
wood shearwall. The panel
achieves high design loads
proven by cyclic testing.
Building- The structural
panel is used in the
construction of residential
exterior walls and garages.
This type of panel is used
when the area requires high
load bearing.
Wood Insulation- upon
request
Templates locate the
required holdown and
mudsill anchor bolts
accurately in the
foundation. The walls are
then placed over the
anchor bolts followed by a
simple top and bottom
plate attachment.
Structural Residential Exterior
129

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
108
Wausau Homes,
Inc and Sterling
Building Systems
Floor: 8-feet
wide by up to
36-feet long.
Interior Walls:
Full wall
height and
varying
lengths up to
28-feet.
Exterior
Walls:
Varying
lengths up to
28-feet
Walls:
Conforms to
standard
framing sizes;
2x4, 6,8,10 &
12. Floors:
Conforms to
standard
framing sizes;
Lumber - 2x8,
10, 12 in solid
lumber. I-joist
- 8-in, 12-in,
14-in & 16-in
Floors, Walls
and Roofs
Varies by
project
Conforms to
Energy Star®
Homes and
Green Built
Homes™ as
a total system
science
structure.
Conforms to all local,
state and national model
codes. Third party
certification compliance.
• West, Mid-West and
South East.
PO Box 8005, Bus Hwy
51/I-39, Wausau, WI
54402
Phone: 800-735-1812
Fax: 715-359-8097
Website:
www.wausauhomes.com
E-mail:
opatikf@wausauhomes.
com Frank Opatik, Vice
President
TAG Distribution is through
independent builders who
coordinate the on-site
construction and after sale
service. The building
system is designed and
engineered on a 3-D
integrated modeling
platform to assure
structural integrity and
generate complete bills of
materials.
109
Strong-Wall
Shearwall
8', 9', 10', and
12' wall
heights
Walls and
garages.
Areas that
need extra
support in the
event of an
earthquake.
Recognized by Code
Agencies, ICBO (PFC
5485), COLA (RR
25427), and California
DSA (PA-110).
4120 Dublin Blvd.
Suite 400
Dublin, CA 94568
800-999-5099
Fax: 925-833-1496
www.simpsonstrongwall.
com
Web,
toolbase
130

Structural / Residential /
Current & Potential Non- Commercial / Interior /
System Name Manufacturer Description Application Skin Material Core Material Connections Structural Industrail Exterior
110
American Barn Premier Stabling
and Sectional
Buildings,
International, UK
Wood-Not insulated wood
panels that clad externally
with selected high quality
Ex 19 X 125 redwood
shiplap.
Agricultural- Nonstructural
panel used for the
construction of exterior barn
walls. Redeeming value is
that it is light and easy to
work with.
Wood Open wall system,
no framing
Panels nailed with
galvanized steel nails, and
bolted together
NonStructural Commercial External
131

System Name Panel Size
Panel
Thickness
Application
Focus Cost/ sqft
Environment
al Quality Certs Distribution / Region Contact Information
Info
Source Notes
110
American Barn Barn walls Church Farm, Kemps
Road, Pulham St Mary,
Diss, Norfolk, IP21 4YH.
01379 608 579
01379 608 579
info@premiersectionalb
uildings.co.uk
www.premiersectionalbu
ilding.co