Panelized Wall Systems: Making the Connections

The broad purpose of this research is to understand and document the connection systems of panelized home construction systems currently on the U.S. market with the goal of developing Performance Standard Criteria to help builders and manufacturers. Such criteria can also aid in the development of new panel systems and in the coordination among different types of panel systems.

The Performance Standard Criteria are based on a careful study of existing panel systems. Approximately 30 panelized construction systems were reviewed and 12 were selected for further study. The systems include concrete panels, metal panels, wood structural insulated panels (SIPs), and wood open-wall panels. Performance information on the 12 different systems was collected and then analyzed to develop the criteria. The criteria cite performance standards based on current codes as benchmarks for connections and system performance. Conventional construction practice is considered as the implicit performance baseline at the system level.

The criteria format makes it easy for builders or manufacturers to compare and contrast different system types and the performance of the various elements of the connection systems. A key to maximizing the use of the criteria is to provide builders and panel manufacturers with easy access to the information, through outlets such as the PATH website and trade organizations.