DIY Network

Framing and Insulation From "Healthy Household Workshop" episode DHHW-101

Pre-fabricated Walls

Pre-fabricated walls can be installed in a single day. Because the walls are custom made to fit your home's slab, they create a totally sealed -- and healthier -- foundation.

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Pre-fabricated concrete foundation walls

Here are some of the advantages of pre-fab walls:

• Individually manufactured of solid 5,000 PSI concrete with top and bottom steel-reinforced bond beam
  
• Solid concrete studs reinforced with rebar
  
• Each is set into place around the foundation via crane. No footers are poured and no concrete is used. Solid walls are created and sealed.
  
• To prevent biological and bacterial contaminants from entering the home, a poly membrane is added atop compact gravel to separate the foundation from the rest of the house.
  
• Next, built-in hooks and rebar will connect the poured concrete slab to the pre-fab walls.
  
• To attach framing to the pre-cast foundation walls, each wall offers a hole at the top with a carriage bolt to attach to the sill plates.

Wood is the most commonly used building material for framing - but it's not the only material available.

Framing

Steel framing - Eliminates the need for chemically treating to protect against pests and moisture, making it a healthier choice. Not widely used in residential construction, will be hard to find contractors and materials.

Wood framing - As long as the structure isn't compromised, you can minimize the amount of wood used, thereby minimizing toxins.

Existing framing and foundations - Put a continuous vapor barrier around existing frame and close seams with special vapor barrier tape. Use a modified asphalt polymer to seal your existing foundation. To seal floor cracks, caulk to seal leaks and gaps. Cover dirt surfaces with concrete or plastic seal.

Blown-in cellulose insulation

Blown-In Cellulose Insulation

A healthier choice because ...

• 35% more efficient than standard insulation.
  
• Good choice to sound-proof and protect against pests.
  
• Environmentally-friendly insulation made of 80-85% shredded paper and 15-20% flame-retardant material.

RESOURCES :

Pre-fabricated concrete walls
Superior Walls
Web site: SuperiorWalls.com

Blown-in Cellulose Insulation
Pure Energy, Inc.
We apologize no contact information is available.

GUESTS :

Dave Ponder
Pure Energy, Inc.
We apologize no contact information is available.