POLYSTEEL "FAQ'S" FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is the R-Value of PolySteel?

Walls made of PolySteel perform, on an average, like a wood frame wall constructed for R-30 insulation. But that's not the whole story. The Equivalent R-Value performance of PolySteel consists of three factors: (1) the R-Value of the expanded polystyrene, (2) the thermal stability of massive concrete walls reduces the temperature fluctuations, and, consequently, the heat load requirements, so common to wood-frame buildings. Finally, air leakage (infiltration) can account for 20% to 40% of the heat load requirements of a wood-framed building. PolySteel reduces this air infiltration by 75%! As a result, with the combined performance of the R-Value of the expanded polystyrene, the stabilizing effects of the thermal mass of the concrete, and the reduced air infiltration, PolySteel walls actually perform as high as R-50, or more, in some areas of the country. We even guarantee, in writing, that a homeowner will save at least 33% of their energy costs over 2 X 6 construction with R-19 insulation throughout the United States.

2. How much does it cost to build with PolySteel?

The best way to answer this question is to compare building with PolySteel with the alternative construction you are considering.

• A PolySteel home will cost, on average 2% to 4% more than building the exterior walls of a home with 2 X 6 frame construction. If the alternative is 2 X 4 construction, the difference would be slightly higher.
• A PolySteel basement will cost about the same, or even less, than a poured wall or concrete block basement that is insulated and finished with equivalent insulation. If your alternative is a completely unfinished basement, PolySteel will cost a bit more.
• A PolySteel home will cost about 5 to 6% more than building the home out of concrete block.

3. What kind of footings are required for PolySteel walls?

Footings are generally determined by local building codes and specific soil conditions. You may use a standard size footing for a PolySteel wall, however, if you build all the way to the roof, you might need to build your footing about two inches wider than the standard for your area.

4. How high of a PolySteel wall can you pour at one time?

Generally speaking, you can pour one story at a time (8 to 10 feet). Our recommended pour rate is no more than four vertical feet per hour around the entire perimeter of the building.

5. How do I attach stucco, siding or brick to PolySteel walls?

The five galvanized steel furring strips on each side of PolySteel Forms are securely attached to the welded steel ties inside. These strips are designed to receive self-tapping screws for the attachment of stucco lath, brick ties, and/or siding. The strips are located every 12" on-center and provide an excellent, uniform anchor for virtually any interior or exterior wall covering you desire.

6. What makes PolySteel better than other EPS forms?

Having been in the business longer than anyone else in the industry, we can tell you that EPS forms are an excellent way to build. We believe that our extensive experience, superior technical support, and leadership in obtaining nationwide code approvals, help set us apart from our direct competition. The patented design and construction of PolySteel forms allows them to withstand greater concrete pressure than other EPS forms, and the steel ties and furring strips are completely fire resistant. Our periodic market and field surveys continue to show that we are among the least expensive, most reliable, and easiest EPS forms to use -- adding to the overall cost effectiveness of building with PolySteel. Finally, and most importantly, we pride ourselves on our continuing commitment to provide the best customer service in the industry.

7. How can I learn more?

Complete answers to these and many more questions can be found in our comprehensive PolySteel Users Manual, Training Video, and other technical support materials which are readily available. We want you to build with PolySteel, and we offer you, your builder, architect, and/or engineer the best technical support in the industry.