Walls made of PolySteel perform, on an average, like a stick frame wall constructed for R-30 insulation. But that's not the whole story. The effective 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 stick-frame buildings. (3) air leakage (infiltration) can account for 20% to 40% of the heat load requirements of a stick-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.

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. In comparing costs, it is important to remember that a PolySteel wall is far superior in strength, comfort, and energy efficiency than even the best insulated stick-framed or masonry wall. In all cases, you will get more than you pay for in energy savings alone!

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. We offer footing design tables to assist you or your builder in determining the proper sizing for your project.

Generally speaking, you can pour one story at a time (8 to 10 feet). Our recommended pour rate is four vertical feet per hour around the entire perimeter of the building. PolySteel has been used for many multi-story residential and commercial applications, including a 7 and 9 story project in Missouri.

PolySteel features recessed steel furring strips (attachment studs) every 12" on center. NEW PolyPro features composite studs every 6" on center with the largest attachment area in the industry. These attachment studs are designed to receive self-tapping screws for the attachment of stucco lath, brick ties, and/or siding. PolySteel and PolyPro's attachment studs provide an excellent, uniform anchor for virtually any interior or exterior wall covering you desire.

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.

American PolySteel has licensed the patented termite-resistant technology, Perform Guard® AFM Corporation, becoming the only major insulating concrete form (ICF) block manufacturer in the industry to incorporate this technology into its product. PerformGuard is the only code-recognized method that allows foam plastic insulation to be installed below grade in the heavily infested termite areas of the country.

Contact Eco-$mart to learn more about building with PolySteel. Eco-$mart offers support and consultation throughout all phases of your green construction project.