Process of Manufacturing

Panelized wall components are the same as those used in site-built construction, including studs, top and bottom plates, cripple studs under and above openings, window sill plates, and headers. In both panelized and site-built construction, dimensional lumber, typically 2”x 4” and 3” x 6”, is used for framing. Some manufacturers use finger-jointed studs since they have fewer defects and are more dimensionally stable than solid lumber. The wall sheathing can be constructed using Oriented Strand Board (OSB), particleboard, plaster, gypsum, plywood, hardboard, fiberboard, to name but a few.

As soon as the building design is complete and meets all building codes and special requirements, the wall panels can be manufactured in accordance with detailed shop drawings. The shop drawings include all the basic information for each wall, including the framing and sheathing layout, dimensions, and references to the building plan.

Panel manufacturing is organized in a linear production process, which includes the following steps:

1. Lumber is precut using automated computerized machines.
2. Sheathing panels are precut.
3. Components are arranged on a framing table where framers nail the elements together using pneumatic nail guns. (Fig. 3.2)
4. Sheathing panels are nailed to the frame. (Fig. 3.3)
5. A router is used to create square openings. (Fig. 3.4)
6. Doors and windows are installed, if needed.
7. Finished panels are hoisted from the production line, packaged, and bundled together.(Fig. 3.5)