In 2009, Superior Walls of America, Ltd. (“SWA”) announced that its foundation system had become approved to earn up to 10 points toward the NAHB Research Center National Green Building Certification. In 2011 the NAHB increased the amount of green points for builders to earn from 10 to 13 total points toward certification.
Superior Walls is the first and only foundation manufacturer whose products are approved to contribute points toward certification of a building under the National Green Building Standard.
This approval from the NAHB Research Center provides third party verification that Superior Walls Xi and R-5 Insulated Precast Concrete foundation wall systems comply with specific product green practice criteria as outlined in the National Green Building Standard.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center first awarded the Green Approved designation to Superior Walls XiTM and R-5 foundations in 2009, allowing builders the chance to earn up to 10 program points towards National Green Building Certification. The organization now has approved the opportunity for builders to add three additional points for practice #903.2.2, “capillary break is added on footing” when foundation walls are set on a minimum of four-inch thick gravel beds with appropriate foundation drainage.
The Green Approved Products Certificate #00071 provides builders the following points for the use of Superior Walls foundation systems:
• Practice 601.2 – 3 points – Structural systems/advanced framing techniques optimize material usage.
• Practice 601.5 (1-3) – 4 points – Precut/preassembled components, panelized, or precast assemblies are utilized for a minimum of 90% of floor, wall, and/or roof system.
• Practice 607.1 – 3 points – Products containing fewer materials are used to achieve the same end-use requirements as conventional products.
• Practice 701.4.3.1 (1) – Mandatory – Insulation is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or local code. Mandatory for certification.
• Practice 903.2.2 – 3 points – Capillary break is added on footing.
Earn up to 13 Green Points Building with Superior Walls Green Points:
Reduces Energy Leakage. Superior Walls concrete wall panels minimize the potential for energy leakage. The combination of pre-engineered built-in insulation and high strength concrete makes a great foundation for energy conservation.
Lowers Energy Cost. Built-in insulation lowers energy loss through the basement walls. The R-12.5 insulation throughout the wall panels minimizes thermal transfer.
Saves Valuable Natural Resources. The foundation panels are engineered and manufactured with insulated concrete studs, thus reducing the amount of lumber, stone, sand and concrete in your new home.
Pre-Engineered for Energy and Strength. Superior Walls 5000 psi concrete, engineered with a lower water-to-cement ratio, ensures durability and helps prevent the transfer of moisture through the wall. A dry basement limits the possibility of mold and other airborne fungi found in other basements, which can affect your air quality.
Reduces On-Site Soil Contamination. Superior Walls are built in an indoor production facility; therefore no form oil is used at the job site. Because damp proofing is built-in (ESR-1662), there is no need to use on-site bituminous coatings.
For more information contact Superior Walls by Advanced Concrete Systems, Inc. in Middleburg, PA at 800-521-3788.
