FAQ

Fibrecrete® Structures basics. 

Fibrecrete® structures are extremely strong, energy-efficient and cost effective. They are composed of high-performance structural insulated panels (SIPs) that are ideal for exterior walls, roofs and floors of saferooms, residences and small to midsized commercial buildings. The panels are formed through a patent-pending process that melds wood fiber with Portland cement and proprietary ad mixes. Our mixing process changes the mixture into a foam, creating minute air pockets through the mix which are sealed from one another. The result is a product that is just 30 lbs. per cubic foot and has a greater than R-32 rating per 10” thickness, plus compression strength of over 900 psi. The panels are fabricated in our factory and can be customized to builder specifications.

How are Fibrecrete® structures designed and fabricated? Fabrication of Fibrecrete® panels begins with a structure’s blueprints and architectural specifications. Our team converts the specifications to SIP-panel drawings which are reviewed by the builder, architect, engineer and any other designated parties. Once they are approved, our fabricators construct forms for the panels. Fibrecrete®’s proprietary material is poured into the forms. Once fabrication is complete, the panels are delivered to the jobsite for installation. Panels are welded together at the job site. All joints are sealed with fireproof mastic. 

Are Fibrecrete® panels environmentally responsible? 

Yes. They are one of the most environmentally responsible building materials available. In addition to providing excellent insulation against heat and cold for reduced energy use, Fibrecrete® structures are airtight and sound deadening. The unique construction reduces construction waste, and the use of cement and wood fiber helps save natural resources. Fibrecrete® panels also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Because of the high energy efficiency of Fibrecrete® structures, HVAC needs are minimized, and thus specific needs should be calculated to ensure that the system is adequate but not excessive.

What is the R-value of Fibrecrete® structures? Fibrecrete® structures boast energy savings that exceed R-32 insulation value.

Are Fibrecrete® structures strong? 

Yes. They are extremely strong, which eliminates the need for additional framing and reduces material costs. In addition, panels are sturdy enough to accommodate most design specifications such as archways. Independent tests* have concluded that Fibrecrete® structures have wind resistance of 200- 250 mph.

How do Fibrecrete® structures affect indoor air quality? 

Fibrecrete® structures are extremely airtight. The indoor environment is controlled with ventilation systems that bring in fresh, filtered, dehumidified air and exhaust stale air out. The ability to control the interior environment means Fibrecrete® structures are healthier and more comfortable for inhabitants. 

Are Fibrecrete® structures fire resistant? 

Yes. The burn test was conducted according to ASTM 84-05 criteria, utilizing a 25-foot-long tunnel with a self-supported 4” thick x 25’ long Fibrecrete® specimen. The furnace was fired with 48 cubic ft of compressed gas for a duration of 10 minutes. Red oak decking, used as a control, is completely obliterated in 5 minutes 30 seconds with flame spread to end of tunnel in 30 seconds, reaching a temperature of 980 degrees. Comparatively, Fibrecrete® had a flame spread of 0 and was under test for the full 10 minutes. A slight discoloration was observed, but Fibrecrete® was otherwise undamaged, proving that Fibrecrete® is fireproof. Other in-house tests have proven Fibrecrete® to be a 24 hour+ firewall. 

Are Fibrecrete® structures wind resistant? 

Yes. Architectural Testing Inc. was contracted by R & D Services to perform impact testing per Miami Dade Test Protocols for High Velocity Hurricane zone, Test Protocol TAS 201-94 on three Fibrecrete® lightweight panels. Fibrecrete® excelled. Documented results demonstrated from a 2” x 12” 4 ft. yellow pine missile weighing 9.2 lbs being fired 17 ft at 50.1 fps impact left just a 3.16” indentation in the panel. 

Are Fibrecrete® structures mold, mildew and insect resistant? 

Yes. The airtight exterior provides a successful mold control strategy, and the air filtration systems used for air intake and exhaust coupled with proper dehumidification of incoming air following ASHRAE standards will create an environment where mold physically cannot grow. In addition, there is no cavity in the exterior walls so there is no opportunity for moisture to condense and facilitate mold growth. Inhabitants of our structures don’t need to worry about termites in our panels; our proprietary mixture is insect resistant. 

Are Fibrecrete® structures cost effective? 

Yes, in a variety of ways. Fibrecrete® structures lower costs in primary construction expense, routine maintenance, and fire and special risk insurance rates. The high energy efficiency nature of our structures means HVAC equipment can be downsized and ductwork can be minimized. Conservation minded home owners who incorporate energy-efficient features into their Fibrecrete® homes can enjoy utility savings of 50% or more. 

Is building with Fibrecrete® panels faster than traditional framed construction? 

Yes. Because the panels are pre-fabricated, on site construction time can be reduced by as much as 50%. Framing, insulation and electrical wiring chases are all part of the fabrication process. Once on site, panels are raised into place, then welded to supporting structures with steel wire mesh or perimeter angle iron imbedded in the panels. On-site modifications to fabricated panels can be made using specialized tools. 

Are Fibrecrete® structures compatible with conventional construction components? 

Fibrecrete® panels are compatible with conventional stick framing. They can be installed on a variety of conventional foundation materials; traditional roofing systems can be installed on top of wall units, or Fibrecrete® roofs on traditional stick frame structures; interior walls within a Fibrecrete® structure are generally built using traditional wood framing. Interior walls are generally finished with sheetrock, and we recommend that exterior walls be finished with stucco or a similar surface to maintain optimum fire resistance. 

Special considerations: Plumbing should be located on interior walls rather than in the Fibrecrete® exterior wall panels. A soffit needs to be installed to accommodate recessed lighting. Kitchen and bathroom cabinet placement should be calculated in advance to accommodate anticipated fastener frequency; many cabinet manufacturers have instructions for hanging cabinets on SIP walls. 

Do Fibrecrete® structures meet building code requirements? 

Yes. Construction using structural insulated panels (SIPs) is recognized by the International Code Council body of building codes, which are used by most jurisdictions in the U.S. For residential buildings, specifications are included in Section R614 of the 2009 International Residential Code. Structures beyond the scope of Section R614 typically require a licensed engineer or architect to approve the building plans prior to construction. An engineer’s approval is always required in areas prone to high wind velocity and high seismic activity. 

Can Fibrecrete® structures be repaired if damaged? 

Yes. If damage occurs, a structural engineer will need to assess the damage to determine whether it is cosmetic or structural. If it is only cosmetic, it can be repaired quite easily with a cement ad mix. If it is structural, then the engineer will work with Fibrecrete® to provide recommendations for repair. 

Does a Fibrecrete roof need to be ventilated? 

No. The area inside a Fibrecrete structure is ventilated by the structure’s HVAC system. 

Can siding be attached to a Fibrecrete structure? 

Any type of siding can be attached to a Fibrecrete structure. Siding manufacturer’s installation instructions should be followed to ensure proper moisture management.