architects view

We are currently building an addition for a client in Downers Grove, Illinois and had the opportunity to utilize an unconventional foundation system, known as Superior Walls.  Although this system has been around for almost 30 years, it has come of age with multiple benefits when compared to a conventional poured concrete foundation.

A Superior Walls foundation is a precast foundation system which is fabricated in a factory and then brought out to the jobsite and bolted together.  The system is quick to install, usually a modest size home can be erected in less than a day.  The foundation is installed on a base of compacted stone in lieu of conventional footings.  Advantages include:

• Entire wall has continuous R-12 insulation fabricated into the panel, simplifying the foundation insulation process.
• High strength concrete needs no additional waterproofing system
• The walls are complete with a metal stud space, allowing for a finished basement to be completed with only the need for drywall.  The wall cavity also allows for additional insulation.
• The entire wall system is 10 ½” so if the basement is finished, additional materials and floor space are not wasted with wall furring or studs
• The foundation can be backfilled immediately after installing the first floor deck and basement floor, saving a couple weeks waiting for the foundation to reach sufficient strength for backfill.
• Taller walls are more economical than a conventional system as less concrete is used.
• Since the concrete is cured, a winter foundation project could be more feasible than a conventional system.
• When adding insulation, waterproofing, studs for basement finishes, 9 foot height, the system can be more cost effective and quicker to install.

Our Downers Grove project provided a few challenges, but they were easily overcome.  The first was that we were using this system for an addition, so pre-planning was more critical than a new single family residence.  Dimensions had to work; there was no room for error or adjustment in the field.  The site was the second challenge.  The addition is located on a corner lot, but access was extremely limited.  Therefore a large crane was required to lift each wall panel over the trees and above the existing house, with each panel ultimately placed into its precise position.  Click Here to view more photos of the installation process on our Facebook page.

Based on our experience, we will most likely use this system for future projects.  It meets all of the applicable national code requirements and is recognized by the NAHB Green Building Program as a approved green product, for a variety of reasons.  For further information, you can contact Lisa Sage- Hannagan at Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions, lsage@superiorwallspcs.com, (217) 522-8565.