Design, Fabrication, and Installation of Engineered Panelized Walls: Two Case Studies

摘要

Panelized wall construction presents significant opportunities to improve housing quality, safety, and affordability. While panelized wall construction is a well-known building technology, it has seen only limited use and its benefits are largely untapped. In part, this situation may be a result of technical and procedural barriers to optimum use of panelized wall systems. This publication provides an evaluation of current technology used in the design, fabrication, and installation of panelized walls systems, including engineered wood frame walls and an innovative steel frame wall system. In addition, procedures used for regulatory approval and, ultimately, the delivery of products and services associated with panelized wall construction are documented. Where appropriate, recommendations for improved technology and procedures are provided. Two case study projects provided for a real world evaluation of existing panelized wall systems used in the home construction industry. One case study, a custom home, was located in an area subject to hurricane-force winds. The other case study, a production-built home, was located in an area subject to severe earthquakes.