At Integrity Post Structures, innovation is more than a buzzword—it’s a core value. We are driven by the opportunities to consistently meet the evolving needs of our customers. This commitment can be seen in our latest development, the Skirt Wall Panel.
A Cost-Effective Alternative to Traditional Foundations
The Skirt Wall Panel is a precast concrete panel specifically designed to safeguard the lower section of a post-frame building from damage that could be caused by equipment, livestock, or even natural elements. With standard panel dimensions of 4’ x 3’, the Skirt Wall Panel can be installed as an exterior or an interior barrier and seamlessly integrates into the post-frame structure using a discreet metal bracket system.
The idea for the panel was originally developed in response to a customer’s need for greater protection around the perimeter of his building. “We were working with a commercial farmer who wanted the benefits of post-frame construction but required a more durable solution to protect the bottom section of their building from potential damage,” explains Jerry M CEO and Founder of Integrity Post Structures. “Our solution at the time was to build a 2’ above grade and 4’ below grade footing and erect the post-frame structure upon it. It was the right solution at the time, but it was quite costly. We knew there had to be a better way.”
Through research and development efforts, the Integrity Post Structures team developed the idea of a pre-cast concrete panel that could be affixed as skirting or wainscoting around the building. Once the customer poured their concrete slab, they’d have the benefit of a full concrete base which would protect the bottom of the building and allow for easy cleaning and maintenance.
A Solutions-Oriented Commitment to our Customers
Some owners require or desire a traditional perimeter foundation. These foundations can significantly increase construction costs due to excavation, materials, and specialized labor requirements. The Skirt Wall Panel is an alternative solution, one that offers many of the benefits of a traditional foundation, but without the cost of excavation and additional labour.
“The skirt wall panel is a cost-effective solution, with the potential for significant cost savings. But the benefits are not only financial,” explains Jerry. “Installation of the panels is efficient, and total build time is less than if constructed with a traditional foundation. Other advantages include increasing the durability of the post-frame building, helping to prevent injuries to livestock and the panels improve the envelope seal which helps prevent rodents from entering the building.”
Additionally, the Skirt Wall Panel offers aesthetic benefits. “When installed on the exterior of the posts, the panels can be used in place of wainscotting, creating a finished and highly durable look that elevates the traditional post-frame building that is fully clad in metal siding,” explains Jerry.
The Skirt Wall Panel has applications across various building types. Whether a commercial, or agricultural structure or adding an exterior design element to a shop or post-frame home, the Skirt Wall Panel offers a winning combination of functionality and aesthetics.
The Integrity Difference: Innovation Built on Customer Focus
The Skirt Wall Panel exemplifies the Integrity Difference – Integrity’s commitment to building better, stronger structures that deliver lasting value for our customers. This patented product, exclusively available from Integrity Post Structures, demonstrates our continued commitment to develop innovative solutions that directly address the challenges faced by our customers. “Integrity was founded on a commitment to do post-frame construction better, to serve our customers better,” explains Jerry Myer, CEO and founder of Integrity Post Structures. “We saw an opportunity to evolve our product offering and better meet our customer’s needs and we acted on it.”
Learn more about how the Integrity Skirt Wall Panel enhances your post-frame building! Contact your local building specialist to learn more.
