What is a CoreWall™?
It's a centralized, pre-manufactured Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) that is laser cut to facilitate the integration of electrical appliances, plumbing fixtures, data & communication, water & air quality, water heaters, radiant heat, photovoltaic solar panels, audio/visual components, home monitoring and security systems as well as other state of the art home automation and internet technologies.
Why use SIP instead of conventional framing?
The SIP is custom manufactured with chases and raceways for all of the services. It allows us to route many more pipes and ducts both horizontally and vertically in the wall than conventional framing allows, as the structural integrity of the wall is carried by the surface OSB rather than internal studs.
Are the subcontractors here going to resist working with this system? Example, some plumbers here won't work on a house with metal stud walls...
This is an opportunity to lay the seeds and establish the need for integration in all areas not just plumbing. The trade owners should embrace the CoreWall; we have helped them with the current labor shortage. One of the originating factors in the research and development of the CoreWall concept was "how do we overcome the shortage in skilled labor?" With the CoreWall being built in a controlled environment of the manufacturing facility, we have significantly reduced the need for "Highly" skilled labor. Now the tradesman need only come in to do the finishes and make the connection to the "Grid." CoreWall presents a variety of new business opportunities to contractors through integration and distribution.
What are the dimensions of a CoreWall™?
The Rosen CoreWall™ is a maximum of eight feet tall and up to twenty-four feet long. Typically, it is 6" to 12" thick, but this can vary according to the services contained.
Do you recommend any plans for how the trades in the field are to plumb their systems?
Yes, essentially all of the roughs are completed prior to arrival on the jobsite. Therefore, you have not only reduced the material and labor associated with the shorter horizontal and vertical runs, you have eliminated the need for tradesmen in the early part of construction.
How are warranty issues handled, such as a water leak at the connection to your system from the field?
Our warranty policy of what's covered and what's not. In every situation, human error will be a factor. The warranty from us is based on the CoreWall Design and installation of it; provided the plans that were presented and converted properly. Once the CoreWall has been signed off on; it becomes the integrators responsibility to install properly or be liable for it. Holes can be cut and easily repaired in the OSB to access the services inside the CoreWall™, so repairs are similar to any conventional system. Prior to shipping the CoreWall is tested for quality engineering and installation. At key locations removable panels can be designed into the system for easy access.
What happens if there is a water leak?
With conventional systems this could be a problem. The CoreWall™, insulates the water pipes from electrical and data lines within the non combustible Styrofoam
Who will warranty the system?
The CoreWall™, manufacturer will provide a warranty for all components within the wall, after installation a local certified vendor would provide service and technical support for all software integration. Plumbing, HVAC, and electrical warranties will still be the responsibility of the local trades whom did the finish work
Will the local building inspectors approve this system?
Homes are being built throughout the country using SIPs panels that are running utilities through them and are being inspected either on site or at the factory where assembled.
When in a job schedule is the CoreWall™ installed?
During framing. Since the CoreWall™ is a wall, it should go in at the same time as the other walls. However, since it contains essentially all of the rough-ins, that phase can be skipped prior to installation of fixtures and finishes.
What is the projected timesavings on installation in the field?
Your savings is the entire rough-in phase for all services provided by the CoreWall™.
I am not familiar with SIP technology. How do I fasten this wall to my floor other framing?
The SIP panel incorporates an internal perimeter stud frame for attachment purposes.
What is the projected lead time to deliver a CoreWall™?
A custom CoreWall™ can be delivered within 4-6 weeks from receipt of your plans. Depending on the complexity, 4-7 days to create shop drawings, 3-5 days at the SIPS plant, 2 weeks for installation of services, and 10-14 days for shipping. Average is 36 days. With our standard CoreWalls™, you eliminate the drawing phase, of course.
What range of savings can you project for a house build with CoreWall™ versus conventional techniques?
Based on an average 2000 square foot home we have realized these savings: data: 41% savings, Electrical: 40% savings, Plumbing: 57% savings, HVAC: 42% savings. **Note these are material savings. Estimated total cost reduction on a 2000 s.f. home constructed at $45- $85 per square foot should exceed 15%.
How much does the CoreWall™, cost?
A typical CoreWall™, for a single home that features kitchen, powder room, laundry room on the first floor and two bathrooms on the second floor and is fully integrated will cost under $10,000 including all the rough-ins and couplings required for standard appliances,home automation, HVAC and plumbing fixtures. Prices will vary based on quantity, complexity of technology integration, and distance to nearest manufacturer. Estimated total cost reduction on a 2000 s.f. home constructed at $45- $85 per square foot should exceed 15%.
Where are the HVAC and hwh units located with the Corewall floor plan?
This depends on the house. If there is a basement, a crawlspace or is it on slab. If there is a basement, then in the basement, if not then on the first floor in a mechanical room. (See the Next/Gen Home)