In the north end industrial section of Fergus there is a new, white building that will soon be the home of Acorn Stairways.
At first glance the woodworking shop is a simple, white commercial structure, rectangular with a gable roof. On closer inspection though, you’ll notice something different: it shines.
The builder, Herman Post of POST Farm Structures Inc., is impressed by the looks but he is more impressed by the energy conservation potential and sustainability of the structure.
The building is made from concrete, tied with rebar and cased in lightweight PVC panels known as the Octaform System. Up to four inches of insulation on the exterior side allow the concrete to act as a natural heat sink, radiating heat back into the interior for a warm working environment. “It could even be an option to add hydronic radiant tubes in the wall to assist with heating the building,” says Post. The bonus of the continuous wall system is that it reduces the thermal breaks in the wall – those areas around the traditional studs where heat usually escapes.
On the inside, the shiny white walls are as solid as concrete, resistant to damage and fire, reflecting light for a brighter working environment. Post has used LED fixtures to reduce energy consumption. The in-floor heating will circulate a mixture of glycol and water, while the blown cellulose above the steel ceiling will provide R-50 insulation up above.
“This building system could pose very unique opportunities for buildings in numerous agricultural and commercial fields,” says Post, such as the ‘cooler’ market for food processing and fruit and vegetable storage where the walls would provide a food grade finish.
“It’s an odd-looking construction process,” admits Post, all done on-site. The majority of time is spent setting up the interlocking panels that are then filled with concrete. What about cost? Post says that the Octaform compares favorably with steel frame construction.
For more information visit www.octaform.com.
