Superior Walls Newsroom

Superior Walls of North Carolina Provides Foundation for "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" in Lincolnton, NC

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0700

SALISBURY, N.C. - For the third time during the filming of Season 9 of the popular ABC-TV Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Superior Walls of North Carolina has been asked to provide a precast concrete foundation system for a project home. The latest project, in Lincolnton, N.C., features a custom-made Xi^TM precast concrete foundation in a home project being installed on Monday, December 12, 2011.

"Our company truly enjoys supporting the efforts of the cast and crew of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Dave Varner, president of Superior Walls of North Carolina. "For this latest project, installation of the crawl space foundation begins at 9pm on December 12th so that construction of the home can start before the sun comes up on Tuesday morning."

The skilled team from Superior Walls of North Carolina created the 400-linear foot customized insulated Xi^TM panels for the home and transported them to Lincolnton from Salisbury, N.C. on special carriers for this project. The company's certified installation crew is on site to install the energy efficient foundation. Cranes will be used to carefully lower the custom walls onto a bed of clean, crushed stone, where the panels will be permanently fixed into place.

"The speed and efficiency with which we can provide a damp-proof foundation for a home is one of the chief reasons we were selected as a supporter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Keith Weller, CFO of Superior Walls of America. "On this show, speed is king. Fortunately, we deal with fast, professional installation of foundations every day."

Superior Walls foundations systems have been awarded the Green Approved Product designation by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center. The insulated foundation systems can potentially save a family a substantial amount on their total heat losses simply because their home is constructed with the right foundation system.

For more information, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.superiorwallsnc.com.
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About ABC-TV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," now in its 9th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It's executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. Episodes air Fridays from 8:00 - 9:00 p.m., ET on ABC.

The Marriage of Post-and-Beam Homes with Precast Concrete Foundations

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0700

SALISBURY, NC - Architect Ken Wertheim places a high priority on enriching mountain settings with his custom home designs. Once completed, his popular timber-framed homes serve as landscape accents to their natural surroundings.

"My home designs primarily feature timber frame designs that complement their western North Carolina locations," says Wertheim, AIA and principal of his practice in Asheville, N.C. "I specialize in Timberpeg� projects that feature authentic timber framing on both the interior and exterior of the home, using mortise and tenon joinery. Timberpeg packages provide a weather-tight shell, including the timber frame structure, SIPS (structural insulated panel) wall and roof systems, as well as exterior finish materials."

Wertheim has married many of his post-and-beam homes with precast concrete foundation systems that also provide weather-tight packages. To achieve optimum energy-efficiency benefits, he starts by specifying Superior Walls� Xi^TM wall panels for his foundations.

"The 5,000 psi concrete strength of these wall systems is amazing," says Wertheim. "The walls come pre-insulated, so they provide the homeowners with an energy-efficient basement. And, the builders appreciate using them because they install in less than a day. That means a builder can start the construction process the day after the foundation system is installed."

Top-of-the-line Superior Walls Xi wall panels feature steel reinforced concrete and 2-1/2-inches of DOW� Styrofoam^TM insulation. The panels are custom designed and constructed in a factory-controlled setting. Unique features of the Xi wall panels include:

- 5,000+ PSI concrete
- Steel-reinforced top bond beams, concrete studs and footer beams
- Horizontal steel rebar inside top and bottom beams
- Vertical steel rebar inside each stud
- Access holes for ease in wiring and plumbing
- Galvanized steel stud facing ready for drywall finishing
- Insulated corners, studs and bond beams

"Superior Walls products are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations," says Dave Varner, president of Superior Walls of North Carolina. "Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process."

Wertheim has specified Superior Walls systems for several dozen of his home projects over the past 12 years. One of his most recent home designs, in Black Mountain, N. C., used the Xi system as the foundation for the 2,800-square foot timberframe home.

"The family in this home enjoys the sense of ‘connection' with the mountain setting," says Wertheim. "Part of that connection is a sense of stability and security that comes from having a precast concrete foundation. The systems available from Superior Walls of North Carolina complement my overall home designs and bring long-lasting energy-efficiency benefits to the homeowners."

The Superior Walls insulated precast concrete wall systems specified by Wertheim in his projects have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the NAHB Research Center. Builders choosing to use Xi and R-5 foundations can earn up to 13 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

The Green Approved Products Certificate #00071 provides builders the following points for the use of Superior Walls foundation systems:
• Practice 601.2 - 3 points - Structural systems/advanced framing techniques optimize material usage.
• Practice 601.5 (1-3) - 4 points - Precut/preassembled components, panelized, or precast assemblies are utilized for a minimum of 90% of floor, wall, and/or roof system.
• Practice 607.1 - 3 points - Products containing fewer materials are used to achieve the same end-use requirements as conventional products.
• Practice 701.4.3.1 (1) - Mandatory - Insulation is installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or local code. Mandatory for certification.
• Practice 903.2.2 - 3 points - Capillary break is added on footing.

For additional details on Superior Walls products, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.superiorwallsnc.com. For information on Mountain Architecture by Ken Wertheim, visit http://www.mtnarc.com/.

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Students Gain Hands-On Construction Experience

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700

NEW HOLLAND, PA - For students at Ranken Technical College, there's no such thing as a "normal" classroom setting. These students, who are studying the fields of construction, plumbing, HVAC and electrical skills, spend their time in the St. Louis community building homes to gain hands-on training.

"Since 1993 we've had students actively building homes in blighted areas of our community," says John Wood, vice president for student success at Ranken Technical College. "Everyone's a winner with this program. Students gain technical skills and experience while the community gains much-needed affordable housing in the Central West End area of St. Louis."

More than 50 project homes have been coordinated by the non-profit organization Ranken Community Development Corporation (RCDC) since the program started almost two decades ago. Within Ranken's construction program at the college students receive instruction from faculty members and in-field residential building construction experience.

"This program is great because it exposes students to a wide variety of construction techniques they will need to know as they launch their careers in the housing industry," says Wood. "For example, this past summer 82 of our construction students had the opportunity to work on two side-by-side house foundations. For one, they used the traditional poured concrete technique to create the foundation. Then, for a second home they worked with Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions to have precast insulated foundation panels installed at the work site.

"Our students went to the Superior Walls location in Springfield, Ill. to see the specific panels created for the home. Then they witnessed the technical team from Superior Walls lifting the panels with cranes and setting them into place on the job site. After that the students jumped in to help with the sill plate setup.

"Overall, we were all amazed at the speed of installation and overall appearance of the Superior Walls products. With the insulation pre-installed on the wall panels at the factory, the students now understand how advanced technology can produce these energy-efficient foundation systems that save time and labor during the construction process."

Homes created as part of the RCDC are sold locally to help repopulate neighborhoods in hard-hit St. Louis areas. "These homes all meet the stringent ENERGY STAR� for Homes Version 3 guidelines and are created as affordable options for people interested in enhancing St. Louis neighborhoods," says Wood. "Proceeds from the sale of the homes are used to build more homes and involve future students in home building projects."

The Superior Walls insulated precast concrete wall systems used by students at Ranken Technical College have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the NAHB Research Center. Builders choosing to use Xi and R-5 foundations can earn up to 13 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

For additional details on Superior Walls products, visit www.superiorwalls.com. For information on Ranken Community Development Corporation, visit the college's website at http://www.ranken.edu/about-ranken/ranken-community/ranken-community-development-corporation.
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Pathway Homes to Build 55 Homes with Superior Walls Foundations in 2012

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700

HAMILTON, MI - In 2012, Michigan builder Gary Jurkovich's business will celebrate its fifth year of constructing spec and custom homes. To celebrate his continued company growth, he plans to build 55 new homes --- all with R-5 precast concrete foundations from Superior Walls�.

"We switched from poured concrete walls to precast wall panels a few years back because they are more energy efficient and increase our cycle time," says Jurkovich, president of Pathway Homes. "We've constructed more than 40 homes in 2011 with these insulated foundation systems and our goal is to create at least 55 more homes with R-5 foundations in 2012."

The R-5 foundations installed by Jurkovich and his team are custom created by Great Lakes Superior Walls out of Hamilton, Mich. During the manufacturing process, a special high-strength, low-water concrete mix is used to ensure that the basements of Pathway Homes remain dry. Each wall panel is reinforced with steel rebar and polypropylene fibers for added strength. The wall panels include one-inch of continuous DOW� insulation for year-round comfort and energy efficiency.

"The Superior Walls products help start off our projects with an energy-efficient foundation," says Jurkovich. "These walls are more aesthetically appealing both inside and outside than poured concrete, they're easier to finish and they have customizable exteriors. Combine those features with the faster installation time and the built-in thermal breaks in the walls and we've got winning foundations for our homes."

For homeowners, the benefits of Superior Walls foundations systems are substantial. The energy-efficient walls help lower energy costs and reduce energy leakage while providing increased living space in a comfortable setting.

The R-5 Superior Walls insulated precast concrete wall systems used by Pathway Homes in Traverse City and Grand Rapids areas have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the NAHB Research Center. Builders choosing to use Xi and R-5 foundations can earn up to 13 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

"We specialize in using cutting-edge technology to bring energy efficiency and sustainability features to all the homes we create," says Jurkovich. "Our homes are constructed to ENERGY STAR� certification standards. Using these Superior Walls foundations that so clearly add to the energy efficiency of the home is a definite benefit for our customers."

For additional details on Superior Walls products, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.greatlakessuperiorwalls.com. For information on Pathway Homes, visit www.pathwayhomes.com.
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Green Building Leads to Increased Home Sales

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0600

ST. JOSEPH, MI - Despite a challenging economy, builder Greg Powell has experienced growing success in constructing his Cottages at Harbor Shores Hideaway development on the shores of Lake Michigan. With seven units now completed and sold, and seven more under construction, Powell believes his determination to feature only high-performance, low-maintenance products in the homes has led to the project's success.

"We will have 58 homes and a clubhouse in this Jack Nicholas Signature Golf Course community on the Paw Paw River when it's completed," says Powell, owner of Powell Construction Services, LLC out of St. Joseph, MI. "Every one of those homes will feature high-performance Simonton ProFinish� Brickmould 600 windows and patio doors. Many of the entry doors are ENERGY STAR� qualified fiberglass door systems from Therma-Tru. And, the home foundations feature energy-efficient Superior Walls� pre-cast concrete wall panels reinforced with steel and insulated with DOW� Styrofoam^TM to create a permanent barrier against sidewall water penetration.

"I've selected the products I would want in my own personal home to assure that the residents here have the ultimate living experience."

Every home in the Cottages at Harbor Shores Hideaway community is being constructed to the NAHB Green Building Standard. The homes are third-party certified Green Built Homes with a Gold Rating, which exceeds the ENERGY STAR Five-Star Plus certification. Powell Construction homes are certified through Green Built^TM Michigan and follow the national Model Green Home Building Guidelines. The NAHB Green Approved Superior Walls foundations used in the homes are the only foundations approved to contribute points toward certification of a structure under the National Green Building Standard^TM.

"Creating an energy-efficient, high-performance home is all about the products you select for the home and the construction practices you employ," says Powell. "These homes are constructed to be just as comfortable during our rough Michigan winters as they are during our perfect summer weather.

"As much as performance is a key goal of ours, aesthetics is also critical when designing and constructing these cottage-style homes. Using the Simonton products with the integral brick mould created as part of each window frame gives us a consistent, stylized look throughout the entire community. Then, complementing those windows with shutters and entry doors that are architecturally appealing with unique accent colors helps us make these cottages stand-out. The glass and color options we selected in the Therma-Tru doors also add to the curb appeal of the home while providing interior accent designs."

The Hideaway Cottages neighborhood developed by Harbor Shores and being exclusively built by Powell Construction is located along the north shore of the Paw Paw River and close to Lake Michigan. Spanning 530 acres and located in Benton Harbor, St. Joseph and Benton Township, the Harbor Shores development is the first beach and signature golf resort community in southwest Michigan. Cottages in the development (which include the lots) range in price from $350,000 to the $600,000's.

"Maintenance-free living is a key feature of this community," says Powell. "The homeowner association fees cover community maintenance along with landscaping and snow removal. There's so much to do here during every season that homeowners don't want to spend time on the mundane chore of maintaining their home exteriors. On any given day, residents can play golf, enjoy the neighborhood clubhouse, swimming pool, fire pit, or canoe and kayak on the river. We've created a ‘community for life' that truly enhances the lives of its residents."

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Resources:
Simonton Windows - www.simonton.com
Therma-Tru - www.thermatru.com
Superior Walls - www.superiorwalls.com
Powell Construction - www.powell-construction.com
Cottages at Harbor Shores - www.cottagesatharborshores.com
Harbor Shores Resort - www.harborshoresresort.com

AG Wall Systems Offered by Superior Walls

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NEW HOLLAND, PA. - Superior Walls�, a leading manufacturer of energy-efficient precast foundation systems, now offers precast concrete wall panels specifically designed for use in above grade applications. The AG^TM Wall Systems allow builders to use the panels in stacked applications to create multiple stories of construction.

"Superior Walls precast concrete wall panels are a fast, efficient way to construct a home or commercial project," says Jim Costello, president of Superior Walls. "Our AG Wall Systems provide an energy-efficient way to construct an entire building from the ground up."

Superior Walls introduced AG Wall Systems to bring the strength and energy efficiency typically found in Superior Walls foundation systems to above grade building applications. AG wall systems are pre-engineered at Superior Walls facilities and custom manufactured for the specific needs of a project. The walls are delivered to the job site and installed within hours of arrival.

"A conventional wall structure with block and wood framing can take weeks to create," says Costello. "When using AG Wall Systems, you can achieve that same framing in just hours on the job site with many energy-efficiency benefits."

AG Wall Systems have already been used in numerous projects, including the creation of a high school, a yoga center, shopping centers and a wide variety of homes. Each Superior Walls panel is custom made to the specifications of an individual project, including built-in openings for windows and doors. Pre-engineered access for wiring or small plumbing elements along with smart stud facing for easy drywall installation are included and help speed up the construction process.

Now celebrating its 30th anniversary year, Superior Walls has more information available at www.superiorwalls.com. Specific AG Wall Systems information and photography of successfully-completed projects are available at http://www.superiorwalls.com/tech_archive/?page_id=193.
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Superior Walls by Weaver Precast Supports Maryland Project for "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0600

EPHRATA, PA. - For an unprecedented third time during the filming of Season 9 projects for Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Superior Walls by Weaver Precast is helping turn homeowner dreams into reality.

On Friday evening, September 29, 2011, a crew of certified installers from Superior Walls by Weaver Precast will arrive in Maryland to install the precast concrete R-5 foundation for a new home belonging to the Johnson-Goslee family. Just hours after receiving the traditional "door knock" with the cast of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the family's old home will be demolished and construction on the new home will begin.

"Our team is scheduled to start work at 7pm on September 29th at the project site and we should have the front wall foundation in place by about 3am so that construction of the house can begin well before sun-up on the 30th of September," says Blake Tomforde with Superior Walls by Weaver Precast. "Our facility has provided and installed three of the foundations during the past 13 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition projects for Season 9. The speed, product excellence and support we bring to the show team have helped them stay on schedule to create dream homes for worthy families."

Superior Walls, the nation's leading pre-cast concrete foundation system manufacturer, is supplying and installing custom-made basement and crawl space foundations throughout the nation for shows in Season 9 for Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. A skilled team from Superior Walls by Weaver Precast created the 351 linear feet of customized insulated panels for the project and transported them to Mardela Springs, Maryland for this project.

"The speed and efficiency with which we can provide energy-efficient foundations is one of the chief reasons we were selected again for another season as a supporter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Keith Weller with Superior Walls. "On this show, speed is king. Fortunately, we deal with fast, professional installation of foundations every day."

About ABC-TV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," entering its 9th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It's executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. Episodes currently air Sunday from 8:00 - 9:00 p.m., ET on ABC. Beginning October 21, 2011, episodes will air Friday nights from 8:00 - 9:00pm, ET on ABC.

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Greystone Homes Uses Superior Walls Foundation for October Parade of Homes Entry

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0600

HAMILTON, MICH. - Greystone Homes has become the first builder in Michigan to install a Superior Walls Xi^TM precast concrete foundation. This home, which is featured in the Midland Home Builders Association Fall Parade of Homes, October 1-2 and 8-9, is part of Greystone's "Cherry Tree" line of semi-custom homes offering energy efficiency, design excellence and enduring craftsmanship at an affordable price.

The 1,550-sq. ft. home, located at 4655 Talon Drive in Auburn, is just one of 14 homes being showcased in the Midland Home Builders Association Fall Parade of Homes during the first two weekends of October. Features of the home include three bedrooms, a granite kitchen with island, mudroom with pantry closet and bench, and a large great room with stone fireplace.

"The entire home sits on the energy-efficient Xi precast concrete foundation," says Kelly Wall, owner of Greystone Homes. "These walls include 2.5 inches of foam insulation (the equivalent of a 12.5 R value) to provide homeowners with comfortable living space. These are the same top-quality foundation systems that Superior Walls has provided as a supporter for the homes created on ABC-TV's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

Energy-Efficient Foundations
Top-of-the-line Xi wall panels feature steel reinforced concrete and 2-1/2-inches of DOW� Styrofoam^TM insulation. The panels are custom designed and constructed in a factory-controlled setting. Unique features of the Xi wall panels include:

"Superior Walls products are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations," says Jim Costello, president of Superior Walls. "Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process."

"There are many energy efficiency advantages to both homeowners and builders for using this Green Approved product," says Costello. "These wall systems help improve the indoor air quality in a dry basement setting along with enhancing the resale value of a home."

Superior Basement System
"We believe the Superior Walls foundation really sets this home apart in the marketplace," says Wall, an ENERGY STAR� partner builder. "The extra living space allows people to designate the space as a ‘children zone' to remove clutter and noise from the rest of the house or use the space as a home office. Having basement space that's comfortable and functional makes so much sense for homeowners. By making the right decisions at the time of construction to use pre-cast insulated foundation systems, we're providing the homeowners with long-term benefits."

The insulated precast walls systems supplied to Greystone Homes by Great Lake Superior Walls have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center. Built in a factory-controlled environment in Hamilton, Mich., each panel is custom-created for the specific design of the home.

"The unprecedented advantages of using the Xi walls shine through as advantages for our customers and align with our goals of creating quality craftsmanship in all our homes," says Wall.

For more information on Greystone Homes, visit www.greystonehomes.biz. Additional details for the Fall Parade of Homes can be found at http://www.hbamidlandmi.com/sites/courses/custom.asp?id=1027&page=59821 and Great Lakes Superior Walls information at www.greatlakessuperiorwalls.com.
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Superior Walls Supports Springfield, Mass. Project for "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0600

LIMA, N. Y. - When the Walker family of Springfield, Mass. woke up this morning, they had no idea they'd never sleep in their beds again. After being greeted by the cast of ABC-TV's popular show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the Walkers learned they were going to get a new home in just seven days. And, the Superior Walls� foundation that launches this family's dream home will be installed in less than six hours.

"We're on-site and ready to install the 228 linear feet of precast concrete foundation system for the basement of this home," says Keith Weller, CFO of Superior Walls of America. "Our team from Superior Walls of Upstate New York will set this energy-efficient foundation in place beginning at 3am on Tuesday, September 13th and construction on the foundation can begin by 9am that morning."

A skilled team from Superior Walls of Upstate New York created the customized insulated Xi^TM panels for the home and transported them to Springfield for this project. The company's certified installation crew is on site to install the energy-efficient, nine-foot tall basement foundation.

"The speed and efficiency with which we can provide a damp-proof foundation for a home is one of the chief reasons we were selected as a supporter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Weller. "On this show, speed is king. Fortunately, we deal with fast, professional installation of foundations every day."

The first and only NAHB Green Approved foundation system in the country, Superior Walls products are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process.

Installing the Foundation
Superior Walls of Upstate New York manufactured the panels for the Walker's home in a climate-controlled environment in Lima, N.Y. and then transported them to the home site on special carriers. Cranes are used to carefully lower the custom walls onto a bed of clean, crushed stone, where the panels will be permanently fixed into place.

"We're excited to support this home building project," says Dan Nizzi with Superior Walls of Upstate New York. "We know this foundation is the right start for the Walker home. We're installing our popular Xi foundation system with six egress windows so that the basement is code compliant for use with below grade bedrooms. Now they'll have a warm, dry, insulated foundation system that's the perfect platform on which the volunteers will create their dream home."

For more information, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.superiorwallsnypa.com.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: For hi-resolution images of the installation process of Superior Walls panels and installed applications, go to the Superior Walls Newsroom at: http://superiorwalls.newscactus.com/imageslist.php

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NAHB Research Center Increases Green Approved Product Points for Using Superior Walls Products

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NEW HOLLAND, PA - Builders starting new home projects can now earn three additional points (for a total of 13 potential points) towards National Green Building Certification when using energy-efficient Superior Walls� insulated precast concrete foundation panels. Superior Walls is the first and only foundation manufacturer whose products are approved to contribute points toward certification of a building under the National Green Building Standard^TM.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center first awarded the Green Approved designation to Superior Walls Xi^TM and R-5 foundations in 2009, allowing builders the chance to earn up to 10 program points towards National Green Building Certification. The organization now has approved the opportunity for builders to add three additional points for practice #903.2.2, "capillary break is added on footing" when foundation walls are set on a minimum of four-inch thick gravel beds with appropriate foundation drainage.

Energy-Efficient Foundations
Top-of-the-line Xi wall panels feature steel reinforced concrete and 2-1/2-inches of DOW� Styrofoam^TM insulation to create a permanent barrier against sidewall water penetration. The panels are custom designed and constructed in a factory-controlled setting. Unique features of the Xi wall panels include:

Quality Construction
In most U.S. climate zones Xi wall panels from Superior Walls meet or exceed energy conservation requirements from both the IECC and the IRC. The foundation walls can help in the construction of an ENERGY STAR� qualified home. As a custom wall assembly, Superior Walls products contribute to the overall home insulation value and reduce air infiltration into the home, thereby making a huge impact on the overall energy efficiency rating of the home.

Superior Walls panels always arrive "dampproof" from the factory and also allow for increasing the amount of insulation without the need for additional framing. The patented wall systems from Superior Walls are custom built to a project's specification in nearly any home style, allowing homeowners to save on energy bills while gaining additional living space in the home.

Now in its 30th year of operations, Superior Walls of America is a proud supporter of ABC-TV's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition television show. For additional details on Superior Walls products, visit www.superiorwalls.com. For more information on the NAHB Green Approved Product program, visit www.greenapprovedproducts.com.
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Builder Starts 35 Green Homes with Superior Walls Foundations

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NEW HOLLAND, PA - Natale Builders is serious about green construction. The 40-year old family-owned business is so dedicated to environmentally-friendly building practices that they are committed to constructing each of the 35 homes in their new Rivera Greens development with energy-efficient precast concrete Xi^TM panels from Superior Walls�.

"We're building New York state's first green/net zero development at Rivera Greens," says Larry LaDuca with Natale Builders out of Williamsville, N.Y. "This is the first development dedicated to conserving energy and green standards to this level in our state. We start off on the right foot with the home envelope constructed of a Superior Walls foundation and DOW� insulation.

"We did our research and determined that Superior Walls products are the complete solution to our building needs. They're green, energy-efficient and cost effective for both us and for our clients."

LaDuca reports that the home designs and construction standards established by Natale Builders for Rivera Green in Clarence, N.Y. will help homeowners save an average of $3,000 to $4,800 each year in energy bills. Homeowners may specify alternative energy sources for their homes including wind turbines, solar panels and/or geothermal energy. The model home for the subdivision, built to Net Zero Specifications, is located at 1 Nicholas Lane in Lancaster, New York and will be open to the public beginning in October of 2011.

"Each home in this development will begin with Xi precast panels to assure the homeowner of a dry, warm and extremely energy-efficient foundation system," says LaDuca. "These Superior Walls systems match up perfectly with our green building goals. They're resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps us reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process."

- 5,000+ PSI concrete
- Horizontal steel rebar inside top and bottom beams
- Vertical steel rebar inside each stud
- Steel-reinforced top bond beams, concrete studs and footer beams
- Access holes for ease in wiring and plumbing
- Galvanized steel stud facing ready for drywall finishing
- Insulated corners, studs and bond beams

The Superior Walls insulated precast concrete wall systems have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the NAHB Research Center. Builders choosing to use Xi and R-5 foundations can earn up to 10 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

Additional green aspects of the Rivera Greens development include LED lighting throughout the home to reduce electric lighting consumption by up to 90 percent, Low-flow plumbing and water saving techniques, ENERGY STAR�-rated appliances, cork flooring, Amish built kitchen, and recycled-content tile interiors. A "low water needs" landscaping will be included for the exterior of each home with rain barrels to assist in the clean capture of rainfall. For more information on the project, visit www.riveragreens.com. For additional details on Superior Walls products, visit www.superiorwalls.com.
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Superior Walls Supports Crawford, NY Project for Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0600

POUGHKEEPSIE, N. Y. - When the Korpai family of Crawford, N.Y. woke up this morning, they had no idea they'd never sleep in their beds again. After being greeted by the cast of ABC-TV's popular show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the Korpais learned they were going to get a new home in just seven days. And, the Superior Walls� foundation that launches this family's dream home will be installed in less than seven hours.

"We're on-site and ready to install the 646-linear feet of precast concrete foundation system for the crawl space of this home," says Keith Weller, CFO of Superior Walls of America. "Our team from Superior Walls of the Hudson Valley will set this energy-efficient foundation in place beginning at 5pm Friday night, August 19th and construction on the foundation can begin by midnight."

A skilled team from Superior Walls of the Hudson Valley created the customized insulated R-5 panels for the home and transported them to Crawford for this project. The company's certified installation crew is on site to install the conditioned crawlspace foundation.

"The speed and efficiency with which we can provide a damp-proof foundation for a home is one of the chief reasons we were selected as a supporter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Weller. "On this show, speed is king. Fortunately, we deal with fast, professional installation of foundations every day."

The first NAHB Green Approved foundation system in the country, Superior Walls products are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process.

Installing the Foundation
Superior Walls of the Hudson Valley manufactured the panels for the Korpai's home in a climate-controlled environment in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. and then transported them to the home site on special carriers. Cranes are used to carefully lower the custom walls onto a bed of clean, crushed stone, where the panels will be permanently fixed into place.

"We're excited to support this home building project," says Tami Ackert with Superior Walls of the Hudson Valley. "We know this foundation is the right start for the Korpai home. Now they'll have a warm, dry, insulated foundation system that's the perfect platform on which the volunteers will create their dream home."

For more information, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.swhv.com.
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Asheville Yoga Center Constructed with Superior Walls

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0600

SALISBURY, N.C. - When Elm Construction & Design broke ground in late July for the new state-of-the-art Asheville Yoga Center, they knew the clock was ticking. They won the construction bid based on speeding up the building cycle. To achieve this, they're relying on an above ground application of Xi^TM precast concrete panels from Superior Walls of North Carolina.

"The AG^TM Wall System is a fast, efficient way to construct homes and commercial projects from the ground up," says Trey Greer, owner of Elm Construction & Design in Asheville. "For the Asheville Yoga Center, this is a great application because we can bury part of the wall below grade, construct sidewalks right up against the wall system and then create the entire building out of the precast wall panels. We're cutting almost a month off a typical construction schedule by using the Superior Walls� products."

The one-story building will combine with an existing building, adding more bathrooms, changing rooms and classrooms to the popular Asheville facility.

"We'll be moving from our current space with 1,400-square feet to more than 3,400-square feet combined which gives us so much more room for our classes and training," says Sunny Keach, co-owner of Asheville Yoga Center with his wife, Stephanie Keach. "Our growth comes from providing a very high level of service and being responsive to market needs. We were on the forefront of yoga's popularity on the East Coast right from the start, and now we've developed an exceptional following based on our yoga teacher training certification and the daily usage of our facility by Asheville area residents.

"We're very pleased to have the ability to expand our facility by having the new building constructed with environmentally-friendly wall panels. These energy-efficient walls will help lower our long-term energy costs by reducing energy leakage."

Problem/Solution

"This new building sits on a gently sloping lot with the floor level three-feet below grade at the back of the building," says Keach. "We knew we didn't want to build with block, but we wanted a tight and well-insulated structure. We also knew we wanted a single plane on the interior walls, which proved a challenge in the detailing with block below grade and stick framing above.

"Superior Walls was the ideal solution to the particular challenges on this building. We had considered them early in the process when Elm Construction & Design recommended them to help sort out water infiltration issues. The fact that this impressive product actually helps reduce waste, installs quickly and eliminates the need for a foundation sold us on the product."

The Xi wall panels used to construct the new Asheville Yoga Center have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the National Association of Home Builders Research Center. Manufactured by Superior Walls of North Carolina, the walls systems can earn up to 10 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

The top-of-the-line Xi wall panels feature steel reinforced concrete and 2-1/2-inches of DOW� Styrofoam^TM insulation to create a permanent barrier against sidewall water penetration. The panels are custom designed and constructed in a factory-controlled setting. Unique features of the Xi wall panels include:
- 5,000+ PSI concrete
- Horizontal steel rebar inside top and bottom beams
- Vertical steel rebar inside each stud
- Steel-reinforced top bond beams, concrete studs and footer beams
- Access holes for ease in wiring and plumbing
- Galvanized steel stud facing ready for drywall finishing
- Insulated corners, studs and bond beams

The Superior Walls wall panels are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new structure than conventional concrete walls. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new building's construction process.

For more information Elm Construction & Design visit www.elmconstruction.com. Additional details on Superior Walls by North Carolina, an authorized dealer of Superior Walls, can be found at www.superiorwallsnc.com. And, details on the new Asheville Yoga Center project are located at www.youryoga.com.
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Wearing Pink Tutu Helps Raise $2896 in Funds

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NEW HOLLAND, PA. - Was that really Superior Walls Operation Director Marcus Blomeier dancing around the company's annual barbeque outing wearing a pink tutu, boa and wig?

Yes indeed, the six-foot tall Blomeier, weighing in at a beefy 265 pounds, spent the afternoon today in the fashionable pink outfit. The Marine Corp. veteran was the "winner" of having the most funds pledged to see him dressed in pink as a fundraising effort for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure� organized by the company's corporate controller, Liz McQuiston. More than $800 was raised by company employees, vendors and licensees to see the 37-year old Blomeier outfitted from head-to-toe in pink for the afternoon.

"All our male executives at Superior Walls were great sports and helped us raise almost $2,900 in total for breast cancer awareness and research," says McQuiston, who will be walking in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure event in Philadelphia this October. "The support that the entire company has given to this fundraising effort and to my work at raising awareness for breast cancer are extremely encouraging."

Dozens of people voted with their wallets for several weeks to select the Superior Walls executive they'd most like to see dressed in pink at work. Each dollar pledged received a vote for a specific person at Superior Walls.

"Breast cancer is a very serious disease so I'm happy to do my part to raise funds," says Blomeier, who has worked at Superior Walls for seven years. "I'm blessed with a wonderful wife, daughter and mother who have all been tested and cancer free. I think it's important for everyone to get screened or checked to see if they carry the gene and for early detection. If dressing up in pink helps this cause, I'm ready to do it again!"

Superior Walls�, a leading manufacturer of precast foundation systems, is based in New Holland, Pennsylvania with licensee manufacturing operations around the country. Each location was invited to participate in the competition by helping raise funds for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure.
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Images: Contact Kathy Ziprik, 828-890-8065 or kziprik@aol.com.

Green Foundation System Saves Builder ONE WEEK on Jobsite

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0600

SPRINGFIELD, ILL. - When builder Timothy Koontz decided to have a Superior Walls� Xi^TM panel foundation system installed in his latest home project, his research prepared him to expect product excellence. What he didn't expect was how much time he'd save by using the precast concrete system.

"We saved almost a week of time by starting the construction process using these custom-made prefabricated foundation walls," says Koontz, president of Dale Koontz Builder, Inc. out of Quincy, Ill. "The crew from Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions installed the entire foundation in about six hours. That saved time translates to money in our pockets with the extra bonus that we're using a more environmentally-friendly product than we have in the past."

The energy-efficient Xi wall systems have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the National Association of Home Builders Research Center. By using the Superior Walls product, Koontz earned 10 points on his home project toward a National Green Building Certification.

"This is the first NAHB certified green home constructed in Adams County," says Koontz. "I spent almost a year researching the Superior Walls product to make certain it was a strong match for my project.

"The feedback and research I did convinced me that these foundation walls would make my final product better. I like the fact that the entire basement is insulated, that the basement outside walls were immediately ready for drywall, and that the company offers such a strong warranty. I'm anxious to use this product again and I believe my custom home clients will add it to their ‘want list' for future projects."

Koontz, who is the first certified green professional in Adams County, built the NAHB Certified Green spec house in Quincy using a passive radon system, an energy-efficient furnace, low flow toilets and WaterSense� faucets.

"In the 38 years since my father started this business there have been an abundance of changes in the housing industry," says Koontz. "I believe the focus on green products and systems is one of the smartest advances our industry has ever made. And, with products and services offered by companies like Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions, I can see the absolute value that these types of products bring to homeowners."

Superior Walls foundations systems are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process.

For more information on Dale Koontz Builder, Inc., visit www.koontzbuilder.com. Additional details on Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions, an authorized dealer of Superior Walls located in Springfield, Ill., can be found at www.superiorwallspcs.com.

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Precast Concrete Radius Walls Form Foundation for Unique New Jersey Home

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0600

MILLVILLE, N. J. - Crushing the idea that concrete house foundations have to be constructed with straight walls, Northeast Precast has constructed a variety of radius prefabricated walls for a custom home in New Jersey. The unique Xi^TM panel walls, created in various heights with radius lengths of nine feet, were pre-assembled at the company's manufacturing facility in Millville, N. J.

"We transported these massive radius walls along with more than 400 linear feet of Xi straight wall panels on a special trailer and installed them as single units to form the foundation of the home in Lakewood, N. J.," says Mark Gorgas, project manager for Northeast Precast. "A brick ledge was attached during the manufacturing process and the radius walls feature the same energy-efficiency features as our standard Xi products. Our ability to custom-create these radius walls perfectly aligns with the design of the home and the developer's desire to have the most energy-efficient foundation possible for this home."

The Superior Walls� Xi panels are the first green approved foundation systems in the country. The wall systems have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the National Association of Home Builders Research Center. Builders choosing to use Superior Walls Xi foundations can earn up to 10 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

"One reason we chose Superior Walls for this specific project was due to the three radii needed for the custom home's foundation," says Jeff Melcer, owner of MDR Developers in Lakewood, N. J. "From our experience, we've seen that Superior Walls products can beat out the competition quite easily when the job is complicated. Quite simply, the Northeast Precast team can do things with concrete that turn out looking really good."

The home, which is expected to be completed in September, 2011, got its start during a snowstorm in January. "The postal service isn't the only organization that delivers in all types of weather," says Gorgas. "We were on site creating this large basement foundation during a wicked snowstorm. That's the great thing about this product. It installs quickly in any kind of weather and provides a fast start for any new construction project."

Superior Walls foundations systems are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process.

For more information on Northeast Precast, an authorized dealer of Superior Walls, can be found at www.northeastprecast.com.
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Back-to-Back Superior Walls of North Carolina Foundation Projects for "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0600

SALISBURY, N.C. - There's been little rest over the past two weeks for teams at Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Superior Walls of North Carolina. Both crews were busy last week on a project home in Madison, Ga., and today started work on a home for the Marshall family in Fayetteville, N.C.

Superior Walls, a proud supporter of ABC-TV's popular show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, will supply the custom-made Xi^TM precast concrete foundation for two basements in the Marshall home. Installation starts at midnight on Friday, July 15th after demolition of the family's old home.

"We're running on adrenaline right now just like the cast of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Dave Varner, president of Superior Walls of North Carolina. "It's critical that the foundation get installed as efficiently and quickly as possible for these projects so the home construction can begin. From the time of the door knock, we feel the pressure and know the clock is ticking."

The skilled team from Superior Walls of North Carolina created the 400-linear foot customized insulated Xi^TM panels for the home and transported them to Fayetteville from Salisbury, N.C. on special carriers for this project. The company's certified installation crew is on site to install the energy efficient basement foundations starting at midnight on July 15th. Cranes will be used to carefully lower the custom walls onto a bed of clean, crushed stone, where the panels will be permanently fixed into place.

For more information, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.superiorwallsnc.com.
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Builder Hides Secret in the Basement

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0600

SPRINGFIELD, ILL. - In today's challenging housing market, builders need to have a "few tricks up their sleeves" to stay competitive and grow their businesses. Not home builder Bill Doud. He keeps his secret selling tool in the basement.

"We've used Superior Walls� foundations as the starting block for more than 70 of our home projects in the last six years," says Doud, president of Doud Builders, Inc. out of Bloomington, Ill. "These precast wall panels make a tremendous difference in creating a home that's comfortable and energy-efficient. Using these basement foundations has helped me offer homebuyers more value for their investment, establish our company as a leader in the energy efficient home building arena in our area, and grow our business.

"This is an evolving industry right now because of the economy. While it's challenging, it's also exciting. The advances made by manufacturers --- like the insulated Superior Walls products --- were not around when my great-grandfather got started in the construction industry more than a century ago. I believe that by using these products we're setting ourselves apart in our market and providing homeowners with true value."

Started in 1993, Doud Builders Inc. constructs energy-efficient homes in subdivisions throughout the Bloomington/Normal area. The company focuses on creating homes that insure livability and sustainability.

The Superior Walls R-5 and Xi^TM panels used by Doud Builders in their homes are the first green approved foundation systems in the country. Manufactured by Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions in Springfield, Ill., the wall systems have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the National Association of Home Builders Research Center. Doud and other builders choosing to use Superior Walls Xi and R-5 foundations can earn up to 10 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

The Superior Walls foundations systems are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations. Stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process.

"When I'm explaining the benefits of the Superior Walls foundation to homebuyers and realtors, I tell them how this system helps reduce a home's energy bills while eliminating moisture problems in the basement," says Doud. "I enjoy telling why I've selected this product for so many of my home projects. Most importantly, I like when the ‘light bulb goes on' for people as they figure out that their basements will now provide them with comfortable, added living space in their homes."

For more information on Doud Builders, visit www.doudbuilders.com. Additional details on Superior Walls by Precast Concrete Solutions, an authorized dealer of Superior Walls, can be found at www.superiorwallspcs.com.
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Superior Walls Supports Madison, GA Project for Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0600

SALISBURY, N.C. - When the Rucker family of Madison, Ga. woke up this morning, they had no idea they'd never sleep in their beds again. After being greeted by the cast of ABC-TV's popular show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the Ruckers, who live in the historic town of Madison, Ga., just an hour east of Atlanta, learned they were going to get a new home in seven days. And, the Superior Walls� foundation that launches this family's dream home will be installed in less than six hours.

"We're on-site and ready to install the 400-linear feet of precast concrete foundation system for the crawl space of this home," says Keith Weller, CFO of Superior Walls of America. "Our team from Superior Walls of North Carolina will set this energy-efficient foundation in place during the middle of the night so that when the sun comes up on July 11th the construction process can begin."

A skilled team from Superior Walls of North Carolina created the customized insulated Xi^TM panels for the home and transported them to Madison for this project. The company's certified installation crew is on site to install the conditioned crawlspace foundation starting at 8:00pm on Sunday, July 10th.

"The speed and efficiency with which we can provide a damp-proof foundation for a home is one of the chief reasons we were selected as a supporter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," says Weller. "On this show, speed is king. Fortunately, we deal with fast, professional installation of foundations every day."

The steel-reinforced concrete panels created by Superior Walls are matched up in the manufacturing process with DOW� Styrofoam^TM boards, providing excellent rigid foam insulation. The resulting Xi^TM wall panels are constructed with a concrete face shell, backed by 2-1/2-inches of extruded polystyrene insulation. In addition, the steel reinforced concrete walls create a permanent barrier against sidewall water penetration.

Installing the Foundation
Superior Walls of North Carolina manufactured the panels for the Rucker's home in a climate-controlled environment in Salisbury, N.C. and then transported them to the home site on special carriers. Cranes are used to carefully lower the custom walls onto a bed of clean, crushed stone, where the panels will be permanently fixed into place.

"We're excited to support this home building project," says Dave Varner, president of Superior Walls of North Carolina. "We know this foundation is the right start for the Rucker home. Now they'll have a warm, dry, insulated foundation system that's the perfect platform on which the volunteers will create their dream home."
For more information, visit www.superiorwalls.com or www.superiorwallsncs.com.
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New City of Akron Energy Efficient Homes Begin with Superior Walls Foundations

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NORTH EAST, PA. - When Calvin Smith became involved in the City of Akron Energy Efficient Homes project, he was pleased to learn that Ferut Architects had been secured to design the two homes his company, Calvin Smith Builders, Inc. would construct. Why? Because, according to Smith, he and lead project architect Joe Ferut share the common belief that energy-efficient homes should start with Superior Walls� foundations.

"I've used Superior Walls for four years and found they provide the ideal energy-efficient foundation for our new home projects," says Smith, owner of Calvin Smith Builders, Inc. out of LaGrange, Ohio. "Our company focuses on green building practices and the precast concrete foundation panels from Superior Walls complement our construction efforts."

Smith will also be using straw bales and earth plaster to help increase the energy efficiency of the two homes under construction on North Maple Street in Akron. "It's all about energy efficiency," says Smith. "We're building conventional 2 x 6 construction walls with blown-in cellulose insulation. Then we add straw bales set on two-inch foam to produce an unheard of R-71 value in the exterior walls. The earth plaster --- which is literally mud mixed with chopped straw --- is applied over an inch thick to create a zero percent air infiltration factor."

Smith believes that the energy efficient construction details he incorporated match up perfectly with the goals of the City of Akron Energy Efficient Homes Project. In Akron, 20 energy-efficient homes will be constructed in a renewal area with rebates of up to $25,000 per home made available based on the HERS (Home Energy Rating System) value of each home constructed.

To encourage the use of energy-efficient products in these newly-constructed single-family homes, the city established financial incentives to assist prospective private property homeowners with energy efficiency benchmarks. Rebate funding for the homes has been available from January 2011 through June 2011, with construction of the homes being completed by December 2011. Smith hopes to take advantage of the city's program by using Superior Walls products and other energy-efficient products in the homes he is constructing.

According to architect Joseph Ferut Jr., who specified the Superior Walls foundations into the two homes Smith is constructing, the precast basement systems perfectly complement the energy efficiency needs of this project. "We've been impressed with the results of including Superior Walls products in previous homes we've designed," says Ferut, principal of Ferut Architects in Vermilion, Ohio. "The products install quickly --- usually in less than a day --- by certified company crews. This means the builder has a firm foundation to begin construction on immediately. The thermal barrier that is created by the precast concrete wall foundation absolutely supports our goals of designing the homes for this project as energy efficient as possible."

Custom-made of durable, insulated concrete panels by the team at Superior Walls of Upstate New York in Lima, N. Y., the Xi^TM panel walls supplied to Calvin Smith Builders for this project assure the future homeowners of having reliably-constructed homes that are energy-efficient and help reduce noise infiltration into the home.

Superior Walls� insulated precast concrete wall systems have earned the Green Approved Product designation by the NAHB Research Center. Builders choosing to use Superior Walls Xi foundations can earn up to 10 points on a project toward a National Green Building Certification.

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