Our Prefabricated Panel Offerings

What are Prefabricated Panels?

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Prefabricated panels are a type of building product manufactured off-site and assembled on-site, offering an alternative to traditional construction methods. These panels allow for faster construction times, improved quality through a more coordinated supply chain, and factory-controlled manufacturing conditions. However, detailed designs must be provided early in the process, as inaccuracies or late changes can significantly impact costs.

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Types of Structural Panels

There are two main types of structural panels: open and closed.

• Open Structural Panels:
  These are pre-assembled wall frameworks to which other elements—such as insulation, vapor barriers, and external cladding—are added on-site. Although open panels allow for quicker and more flexible construction compared to traditional methods, a significant amount of work still needs to be completed on-site.

• Closed Structural Panels:
  Closed panels are fully pre-assembled, including components like pre-fitted windows, doors, internal services ducting, and finishes. These panels are typically larger and heavier, often requiring cranes for on-site assembly.

 

The long-term performance of prefabricated panels depends on the use of suitable materials, the accuracy of connections between panels, and their integration with floors and roofs.

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For more information, see Off-site Prefabrication of Buildings: A Guide to Connection Choices.

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Common Types of Prefabricated Panels

1. Concrete Insulated Panels
   These panels consist of robust insulated concrete with a brick outer leaf and can be manufactured with external windows and doors. They are designed for a service life of over 60 years.

2. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)
   SIPs are a form of sandwich panel system incorporating an insulating foam core between two structural facings. Predominantly used in residential and light commercial construction, SIPs are manufactured off-site under factory-controlled conditions and can be installed quickly on-site. They offer high strength and performance and can be customized for various building designs.
   For more information, see Structural Insulated Panels.

3. Timber Frame Panels
   Timber frame systems range from open "stick-built" systems to closed panels pre-fitted with insulation, wiring, and plumbing. Open timber frame walls are composed of studs fixed in place with sheets of plywood or OSB (Oriented Strand Board). Once the frame is complete, insulation is added on-site, followed by a waterproof barrier and external cladding. Closed panels, however, arrive on-site with these components already installed, minimizing on-site labor.

4. Lightweight Steel Frame Panels
   Typically open panels, lightweight steel frames are designed to avoid cold bridging by placing insulation on the external side of the frame.

5. Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF)
   ICF, also known as Permanently Insulated Formwork (PIF), is an insulated concrete system constructed using hollow lightweight block components. These blocks, usually made of expanded polystyrene, lock together without the need for mortar. Concrete is then poured into the formwork to create the structure. While ICF is not strictly an off-site technique, it offers quicker installation and better insulation than many traditional construction methods.

Why Choose Beam Panels Inc.?

• Speed and Efficiency: Our prefabricated panels are manufactured off-site, significantly reducing construction time and labor costs.

• Quality Assurance: Every panel is meticulously crafted in a controlled environment to ensure superior quality and performance.

• Energy Efficiency: Our structural insulated panels (SIPs) help reduce energy costs by improving insulation and reducing air leakage.

• Sustainability: We are committed to using eco-friendly materials, including renewable wood sources and recyclable components, to minimize environmental impact.

• Customizable Solutions: Need something specific? We offer customizable panel sizes, insulation types, and finishes to meet your unique project requirements.

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