Hardwall Structures
Description
Hardwall structures involve an insulated sandwich panel system that uses composite fibre rods to tie the two leaves of the wall together. These rods are stronger, less thermally conductive, less corrosive and more elastic than the traditional steel connectors. The insulation extends to the edges of the panel to eliminate cold bridging. The panels are turned vertically, so that the inner wall is used as a structural load-bearing member to support the roof in a column-free solution. In addition, hardwall cladding can serve a structural purpose, such as bracing a frame or combining with a roof structure as a diaphragm to transfer wind forces.
Benefits
Hardwall structures
- Enable life-time energy costs to be reduced
- Provide high levels of fire and impact residence - safer and more durable
- Keep inner and outer faces clean as there is no requirement for columns, sheeting rails or sag rods
- High-quality finish can be left untreated, further contributing to energy efficiency and requiring low maintenance
- Speeds up construction time - not affected by weather or labour shortages; large panels result in quick build time.
- Improves buildability - no need for scaffolding.
Process
The outer leaf is cast first at the bottom of the mould around the necessary reinforcement. The styrofoam insulation layer is then compacted on top of this, and the rods are inserted into the polystyrene before the reinforcement for the inner wall is placed above. The inner leaf is then cast, forming the last layer of the sandwich.
Please see our case studies.