FAQ
Do You Have Questions About GS Panels?
We have the answers.
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What is the cost comparison of an GS Panel building vs other methods?
GS Panels are competitively priced with other construction systems of equal thermal efficiency and likely the most cost effective solution when seeking to achieve more than R34.
How are utilities installed into GS Panels?
There are a couple of options:
- Vertical cuts and boxes are made using a hot knife or Chainsaw with a depth gauge, with the exposed chases sealed with spray foam after.
- Furring, strapping or a stand-off system can be used to create a utility chase.
Are GS Panels compliant with building code?
Yes. GS Panels have completed a third party evaluation by a Standards Council of Canada accredited laboratory to determine their compliance to the 2020 National Building Code of Canada.
What kind of buildings can you do?
Single Family Residential, Multi-family Residential, Commercial, Institutional
What is thermal bridging and why is it a problem?
Thermal bridging is solid conductive materials that are continuous from the inside to the outside of your building envelope. This is the path of least resistance for energy to escape your building.
Does Greenstone have house plans designed for GS Panels?
Yes! We currently have two GS Panel packages available! Click here to learn more. Stay tuned as we add more packages to our catalogue.
Do you have fire testing for GS Panels?
Yes, GS Panels can be used in 1 hour load bearing wall assemblies or 2 hour non-load bearing wall assemblies.
Who can build with GS Panels?
Anyone who receives the Greenstone Builder Training can be an installer for the GS Panel product.
Can you make site modifications or repairs?
Yes. After consultation with Greenstone and the project engineer, on site alterations may be possible.
Do GS Panels need special materials for finishing?
No. Fasteners are typical to steel frame construction and finishes used are the same as typical residential construction.
Will I need special engineering?
GS Panels are engineered specific to your project; similar to pre-engineered steel structures. Engineer of Record requirements vary from region to region. Greenstone will be able to assist you regarding the specific requirements in your region, based on your building classification.
Some projects/regions have additional requirements for high wind load, heavy snow loads, seismic activity, or any combination of these. GS Panels can be engineered to meet these additional requirements effectively.
What are the lead times for an GS Panel project?
There are no production lead times for a GS Panel project. Our manufacturing plant has been optimized for top production efficiency, so once we have all the information required, and once the drafting has been completed, we can begin producing your GS Panels.
What is the difference between EPS & GPS?
Greenstone offers two selections for the GS Panel core — EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) and GPS (Graphite Polystyrene). Other than the difference in color of the resin bead, the main difference is the superior R-values offered by the GPS option. GPS includes graphite which increases the emissivity of the EPS over standard white EPS, making it more energy efficient.
What GS Panel thicknesses are offered and what R-values are associated with each?
GS Panels come in four thicknesses.
- 5.5″ Panel = R22 (EPS) R26 (GPS)
- 7.5″ Panel = R30 (EPS) R36 (GPS)
- 9.25″ Panel = R37 (EPS) R44 (GPS)
- 11.5” Panel = R46 (EPS) R55 (GPS)
How do I get a price for an GS Panel project?
We need a to-scale pricing set of plans including rough openings, dimensions, and elevations to be able to prepare an estimate for your project. The best way to get started is to call the Greenstone office at 204-726-1426 or email sales@gsbp.ca with your full set of plans.
Can GS Panels be used for below-grade applications?
Yes! GS panels can be used in below grade applications with a maximum backfill of 6 feet.
How do GS Panels stand up against high winds?
GS Panel building envelopes are constructed using steel connector plates and screws to fasten the panels together through steel framing. This combination will resist pull-out better than the traditional framing of nails-into-wood. The core of the GS Panel is also a key element when dealing with increased wind speeds. It allows the wall to flex when hit with strong winds rather than fighting the force and being damaged.
How are GS Panels considered a sustainable building product?
A GS Panel building envelope significantly cuts down the amount of energy required to heat and cool the building, reducing the building’s carbon footprint, allowing builders to reach Net Zero standards. GS Panels are also 100% recyclable, they’re made in a zero-waste manufacturing facility, and GS Panel job sites experience less waste making for less trips to the landfill.
Do GS Panels off-gas?
The GS Panel core is a closed-cell insulation. This makes it very stable with no off-gassing. The EPS used in the GS Panels is expanded using steam which activates pentane. After the EPS is expanded, the pentane is completely off gassed in a highly controlled environment, leaving just the expanded EPS bead filled with atmospheric air. By the time the GS Panels leave our plant, no further off-gassing will occur.