PCWS meets all desired attributes, incorporating the best features of CIP sandwich walls and pre-cast panels.
PCWS meets all desired attributes, incorporating the best features of CIP sandwich walls and pre-cast panels.
Insulating the inside face of basement walls can conflict with traditional foundation wall vapor control, leading to potential problems such as mold, odor, decay, and corrosion.
Exterior basement insulation presents practical challenges, including protection, waterproofing, insect control, and thermal bridging issues.
Insulating both sides faces similar challenges to internal and external insulation along with the additional expenses of a fire barrier for the interior layer.
The perfect sandwich wall embeds insulation between two concrete partitions, offering superior protection against moisture, mold, odor, and insects.
Continuous verifiable web, sandwiched between two wythes of concrete.
During construction, insulation is not exposed or damaged. No need for fire-rated assemblies to protect the insulation, as it is already shielded by concrete. Below-grade walls are protected from insects and have simple waterproofing options. No additional exterior finish materials are required. Thermal bridging for brick veneer is eliminated. The 4″ XPS web provides R-20 insulation and durability, sealed within the concrete for long-lasting protection.
Manufacturing panels ensures precise placement of web insulation, shear connectors, and composite horizontal rebar, eliminating field installation errors.
Panel connectors insure air tightness.
Placing all panels and vertical reinforcing before shuttering allows for visual inspection of the entire system.
Accurate reinforcement placement prevents cracking, while the impervious web provides double protection against air and water leaks.
After removing the shuttering, the interior and exterior surfaces of the wall are visually inspected to ensure quality.
No off-gassing of toxic spray foams, glues, or sealants due to their absence.
Building envelope commissioning is facilitated by the ease of visual inspection, allowing for predictable performance. The utilization of minimal mechanical systems contributes to lower energy consumption. With panels manufactured specifically for each project, waste is minimized. The reuse of shuttering on-site reduces the need for trucking, equipment, metal forms, and materials. Concrete, known for its durability, can be found in buildings that have stood for thousands of years. By implementing a long-lasting and sustainable building envelope, operating costs are reduced, leading to lower life cycle costs. Additionally, demand-controlled ventilation can be employed, resulting in additional savings in HVAC systems.
Founder, Joseph Racciua