Post-frame residential home built by Integrity Post Structures

An Alternate Method of Homebuilding: The Benefits of Integrity Post Structures’ Approach to Residential

In the world of construction, traditional framing methods have long dominated the landscape, especially in residential construction. However, as the continued demand for efficient, economical, and sustainable building practices grows, the approach taken by Integrity Post Structures is getting attention.

Integrity uses post-frame construction methods combined with innovative design and engineering to alter the way we think about building homes. Backed by a comprehensive study from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), this approach not only promises cost savings but also offers superior thermal performance and long-term durability. In this blog, we will explore the key benefits of Integrity Post Structures’ techniques and why they are an excellent choice for today’s homeowners.

The Evolution of Building Techniques

an unfinished home built by traditional methods of construction

Traditionally, residential homes are built using the stick-frame method, which involves a poured foundation, with all parts of the framed structure being constructed from loose lumber. While this method has proven effective over the years, it is not without its challenges. Skilled labour, extended construction times, and energy inefficiencies are just a few of the realities that builders and homeowners face.

An Integrity residential building under constructionIntegrity Post Structures builds homes to lock-up using alternative methods. We replace the traditional foundation and wall systems with Perma-columns®, frost shields, and advanced wall assemblies. These innovations not only reduce construction costs but can also enhance the overall performance and durability of the home.

Cost Efficiency: Building More with Less

Source: SAIT reportOne of the most compelling reasons to choose Integrity to build your home is the significant cost and time savings during the framing stage of construction. According to the SAIT study, the total cost of constructing a post-frame home is notably lower than that of a traditional stick-built house. The study compared two 1500-2000 square foot residential buildings—one built using the stick-frame method and the other using Integrity’s post-frame technique. The results were clear: post-frame construction saved approximately $20,000 in construction costs.

These savings are primarily due to reductions in site preparation, material costs and labour hours. For instance, post-frame eliminates the need for extensive excavation, cast-in-place concrete, and backfill, all of which are required in traditional foundation systems. Instead, Perma-columns are installed quickly and efficiently, regardless of seasonality. Additionally, the post-frame method requires less lumber for interior load-bearing wall systems, further lowering expenses while also minimizing waste.

Superior Thermal Performance: Keeping the Cold Out and the Warmth In

In regions with harsh winters, maintaining a warm and energy-efficient home is crucial. Integrity’s post-frame construction excels in this area, offering superior thermal performance compared to traditional stick-built homes.

Source: SAIT reportThe SAIT study conducted thermal scans on a residential project built by Integrity near Okotoks, Alberta, using advanced drones and FLIR Tools software. The results were impressive: the post-frame home showed minimal heat loss, due to the innovative wall system and insulation techniques used. This was further supported by R-value calculations, which measure the thermal resistance of building materials. The study found that Integrity’s post-frame home had R-values between 19.99 and 20.74 ft²·°F/BTU, significantly higher than the 14.14 to 15.14 ft²·°F/BTU of the traditional stick-frame home used in the study.

For the homeowner, this means greater energy efficiency –  the home retains warmth in the winter and stays cooler in the summer, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs. Over time, these energy savings can add up, making post-frame homes not only more comfortable but also more economical to live in.

Innovation: Built to Last

Beyond cost and energy efficiency, the durability of a home is a critical factor for any homeowner. One of the key innovations highlighted in the SAIT study is the use of the Integrity Frost Shield system, a patented solution developed by Integrity to address the issue of frost heave. Frost heave occurs when moisture in the soil freezes and expands, causing the ground to shift and potentially damaging the concrete slab in a building. This is a common problem in cold climates, where the ground experiences repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Frost ShieldIntegrity’s Frost Shield system prevents frost heave by raising the frost line. The shield traps heat beneath the structure, protecting the slab and columns from the effects of freezing temperatures. This reduces the risk of costly repairs down the line.

Moreover, the use of the  Perma-Column system is a testament to Integrity’s commitment to innovation. These engineered precast columns, made from a combination of concrete and steel, are designed to resist decay, rot, and insect damage. By incorporating these materials into their structures, Integrity ensures that post-frame homes are built to last, providing homeowners with peace of mind and long-term value.

Conclusion: A Forward-Thinking Approach to Resilient and Economical Homebuilding

In a rapidly evolving construction landscape, the methods used by Integrity Post Structures present a compelling alternative to traditional homebuilding. By embracing post-frame construction and innovative techniques like Perma-columns, Frost Shields, and advanced wall assemblies, they offer a solution that not only reduces construction costs but also enhances thermal performance and long-term durability. The SAIT study underscores the tangible benefits of this approach, from significant cost savings to superior energy efficiency.

For homeowners seeking a resilient, economical, and energy-efficient option, Integrity Post Structures’ method stands out as a forward-thinking choice. Their commitment to innovation and quality construction makes them a strong contender in the future of residential building, providing homes that are built to last, comfortable to live in, and economical to maintain.

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