Tried-and-True with a Twist: Extended Plate Wall Systems

The Extended Plate Wall (EPW), also known as Extended Plate and Beam (EP&B), is an advanced wall system developed by Home Innovation Research Labs. The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority, Forest Products Labs, and U.S. Department of Energy have partnered with Home Innovation to test and optimize the system, and have developed a number of practical resources to allow home builders and building contractors to integrate these high-performing walls into the homes they build at a reasonable cost, while meeting or exceeding the Energy Code prescriptive insulation requirements for all U.S. Climate Zones.

This innovative wall system was designed using tried-and-true lumber construction methodologies. The system is composed of familiar wall materials but in a different configuration, integrating rigid foam sheathing with standard framing practices into a system that preserves many conventional construction features and minimizes the risk builders typically face when using a new technology. Check out this recent interview by ProBuilder Editor-in-Chief Rich Binsacca with Home Innovation's Patti Gunderson. The resources below will also be useful for those new to this technology.

Reports:

• DOE Building America - Comprehensive Construction Guide
• DOE Building America - System Evaluation and Test Homes In Grand Rapids, MI
• NYSERDA/FPL - Test Home in Cazenovia, NY 
• DOE Building America - Demonstration House in Lancaster, PA
• DOE Building America - Concept Investigation & Initial Assessment 

Marketing Materials:

• EP&B Overview 
• EP&B Builder's Guide 
• EP&B Sell Sheet for Builders