How does Tella Firma contribute to sustainability?
We hear a lot about sustainability throughout business, and the construction industry is no exception.As one of the largest components of the industrial sector, construction accounts for as much as 10% of the world GDP and around 12% in the U.S.At Tella Firma, we’re part of a much larger multidisciplinary industry that may have an impact on the environment.As such, the industry as a whole has both the opportunity and the responsibility to seek ways to utilize sustainable processes and minimize this impact.
Looking around the industry, there are several key areas of focus where stakeholders in the building and construction sector are beginning to make an impact in terms of sustainability: building design, use of materials, energy use, and impact on land.
In the area of design, the concept of “cradle-to-cradle” design is gaining traction, based on the principles of using materials that can later be reconstituted into other products, and designing buildings that can serve multiple purposes.For example, designs that allow for reconfiguration, that provide easy access for maintenance, and that facilitate replacement of shorter-life-span components, will support the transition from one use to the next.Cradle-to-cradle builders use production techniques that are not only efficient, but are essentially waste-free.
As construction is believed to consume about half of all resources we take from nature (including about 25% of the wood harvest), building materials are a prime focus in sustainability efforts.Solutions include not only an increased use of recycled and reclaimed materials, but also innovative efforts such as utilizing recycled construction and demolition (C&D) materials in new construction, thus avoiding the need to mine untouched resources while also eliminating the disposal of construction waste.
On a related note, the selection of materials in the building process also has an impact on energy usage.Since much of the energy used in construction relates to the production of bulk materials including steel, cement, paper, plastic and aluminum, designing buildings with alternate materials, or with more efficient use of materials, also will reduce energy consumption.
For example, the production of cement, which is indispensable for construction, accounts for about 5% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.Tella Firma’s process for building a slab-on-grade foundation consumes on average 25-30% less concrete than alternate methods, which not only saves money but also helps reduce the amount of greenhouse gases produced through cement production.
The use of land has many potential effects on the environment, caused by factors including deforestation, agriculture and land development.Some types of land development, such as suburbanization, can contribute to a number of environmental concerns, including increased air pollution and the formation of urban and suburban heat islands.In addition, land pollution caused by the deposition of solid or liquid waste materials, on the land or underground, is a concern in terms of public health and longer-terms effects on the environment.
Introducing chemicals into the environment through the land is one particular area of consideration when thinking about sustainability, and Tella Firma is proud that its innovative process for building an elevated slab-on-grade foundation does not require any type of pre-treatment for the soil, such as water or chemical injections that might change the composition of the soil or harm the environment.
One thing is certain: Responsible construction and development must continue, to keep up with growth in population, communities and businesses.With Tella Firma’s green foundation solution, we’re doing our part to help the construction sector work toward a more sustainable future.
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Commercial builders now have a cost-effective solution for larger size projects based on technology proven successful in light commercial applications
(DALLAS—October 10, 2017) Tella Firma Foundations today announced a new heavy-duty commercial version lifting mechanism that is the cornerstone of its successful and patented elevated slab-on-grade foundation technology that has been used in more than 1,000 building sites in Texas and surrounding states.
The heavy-duty commercial lifting mechanism is designed for heavier commercial structures that are either large in size or have heavy load requirements such as concrete block interior or exterior walls. The heavy-duty lifting mechanism will allow the structural engineer to increase the spacing between piers because each lifting mechanism can carry a heavier load. The increased spacing will reduce the number of piers required for a typical commercial foundation design and make it more cost effective.
The Tella Firma foundation system is based on commercial engineering principles in practice for more than 50 years. The new mechanism can handle approximately double the load of the standard lifting mechanism. Tella Firma has conducted significant testing and analysis to ensure the new heavy-duty commercial lifting mechanism performs well in terms of both axial and lateral load capacity, wind load capacity, and life expectancy.
According to Jim Fontaine, CEO of Tella Firma, the company continues to innovate and collaborate with the commercial construction industry to develop new sustainable solutions for commercial projects based on their expressed needs. “Now commercial builders have a more cost effective means to take advantage of a solution that has been proven successful in the many foundation installations where our company has provided the technology,” he said.
The new product is currently being considered for several new commercial structures under design, including a school and a city municipal building. Many Independent School District (ISD) and other government buildings require either a crawl space or elevated slab solution, making this a primary market for the Tella Firma product.
Innovation through Technology A Tella Firma lifting mechanism is an enabling component for the process of elevating a slab-on-grade foundation above the ground to create a protective void between the slab and the soil. This innovation isolates the foundation, helping to protect it from damaging soil swells, contractions and movements that may occur in many areas of Texas and the Southwest region, where active soils can cause foundation problems due to movement and settlement.
The Tella Firma lifting mechanism consists of a load-bearing imbed plate that sits atop a pile, a lifting bolt, which bears against the imbed plate, a threaded puck, cast in the bottom of the slab, which accepts the lifting bolt, and a sleeve and cap which prevent concrete slurry from fouling the puck threads during slab concrete placement. The new heavy duty mechanism works with either post-tension or rebar reinforced slabs, and includes a larger lifting puck and larger, heavier bolt to withstand the additional load.
The new heavy-grade commercial lifting mechanism increases the lateral load capacity of the foundation by two to three times. Analysis indicates the solution has a life expectancy of over 100 years under normal conditions.
About Tella Firma Foundations Dallas-based Tella Firma is a construction technology firm that is revolutionizing the way foundations are built. Tella Firma gets its name from the Latin words meaning “strong home.” Foundations with the company’s product have been installed in residential and light commercial projects in Texas and Colorado, and the company continues to expand into new markets throughout the region. For additional information, visit tellafirma.com.
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Former PricewaterhouseCoopers executive brings combination of industry and strategic financial experience to board position
(DALLAS—August 22, 2017) Tella Firma Foundations, a company that is revolutionizing the construction industry, today announced that it has added Richard (Dick) Holoman as an independent outside director to its board of directors. Holoman spent more than 30 years with PricewaterhouseCoopers and its predecessor Price Waterhouse, in roles involving strategic finance, consulting, and large account management.
Holoman joined Price Waterhouse in 1976 in Charlotte, N.C., and was admitted to the partnership in 1987. His significant industry experience spans financial institutions, oil field services, construction and engineering, automotive retailing, and U.S. inbound investment. Functionally, he has helped clients with many complex problems (domestic and foreign), including mergers and acquisitions, cross-border and cash repatriation strategies, and tax and financial controversies. Upon retirement in 2010, he continued significant teaching responsibilities for the firm for several years.
According to Jim Fontaine, CEO of Tella Firma Foundations, “We are very pleased that Dick has agreed to lend his significant industry and financial experience to the Tella Firma board, and we look forward to his counsel as we take advantage of market opportunities and manage our growth.”
Holoman has held board positions with Vedero Software, prior to its merger with Murata Electronics (Japan), as well as DxUpClose, an early stage in vitro diagnostic company. He previously held board positions with the Charlotte Choral Society, Orpheus Chamber Singers, The Vogel Alcove, and The Dallas Opera. Holoman was an advanced course instructor for the U.S. Army at the Naval Amphibious Base in Little Creek, Virginia. He earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a bachelor’s degree in music education from East Carolina University.
The Tella Firma foundation system has been used by dozens of builders, with more than 1,000 foundations installed, and is backed by seven issued patents. Tella Firma foundations are designed to protect a building’s foundation from damaging active soil movement with a field-tested process of elevating a slab-on-grade foundation using piers, creating a protective void between the ground and the foundation itself. This application isolates the slab from active soils and guards it from unexpected movement. Tella Firma’s solution is an environmentally friendly, green installation process that avoids the need for any type of chemical or water injection into the soil as part of construction.
About Tella Firma Foundations Dallas-based Tella Firma is a construction technology firm that is revolutionizing the way foundations are built. Tella Firma gets its name from the Latin words meaning “strong home.” Foundations with the company’s product have been installed in residential and light commercial projects in Texas and Colorado, and the company continues to expand into new markets throughout the region. For additional information, visit tellafirma.com.
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All soils are not created equal. And when building a foundation, these differences in soil types become critically important.
Some soils tend to act like a sponge, expanding when water is absorbed and shrinking when they dry out. These soils are known by several names – expansive soils, active soils, shrink-swell soils, expandable clay – but the end result is often the same: Expansive soils can cause foundation problems and threaten the structural integrity of any building constructed on a site with this type of soil composition.
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) estimates that half of all homes in the U.S. are built on expansive soils, and half of those homes will experience some level of expansive soil damage. The estimated damage to buildings, roads and other structures built on expansive soil exceeds $15 billion annually, according to an international engineering study, and the ASCE has stated, historically, that expansive soils account for more home-related damage each year than floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.
Globally, expansive soils create serious engineering problems and economic losses in at least 19 countries. Damage in the U.S. is generally concentrated in certain parts of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Colorado, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, and North and South Dakota.
Of the approximate 1.2M annual U.S. housing starts, Tella Firma estimates that over a quarter million housing starts occur in areas with active soils. Texas alone accounts for over 40% of the housing starts with active clay soils.
What’s Underground in Texas? The Central Texas corridor and coastal areas of Texas have some of the most pronounced regions of expansive soils in the country, and these areas are ripe for enabling foundation damage. Weather itself can pose a problem, with the effects of Texas rain and wind contributing to soil movement and erosion at the base of foundations. Beyond that, rapid population growth, increased urbanization of Texas suburbs, and the expansion into reclaimed farmland are contributing factors to a significant increase in construction where expansive soils are present.
Texas is divided into 21 different Major Land Resource Areas that have similar or related soils, vegetation, topography, climate, and land uses. Here’s what we find in the major metropolitan areas:
Dallas – The Dallas area is in the Blackland Prairie, with soils comprised of three primary types (Austin chalk, Ozan Marl and Eagle Ford), often referred to as “cracking clays” due to the large deep cracks caused by dry weather. The unique blend of soil, with a higher clay content, is susceptible to significant expansion that can lead to foundation issues.
Fort Worth – As part of the Grand Prairie region, Fort Worth soils include both Eagle Ford and Woodbine, a composition that is entirely different from that found in Dallas, but still represents a threat to the integrity of foundations.
Houston – Houston soils are somewhat similar to those found in the Dallas/Fort Worth region, but the presence of sand can create a different type of reaction. Sandy soil presents the unique ability for soil to shift laterally underneath a foundation.
Austin and San Antonio – Central Texas soil conditions can vary significantly from location to location within a community. For example, the east side of Austin and northeast San Antonio both feature very expansive soils compared to the more stable western areas of both cities, where the Hill Country begins. The Hill Country of Texas has a rockier terrain that generally will provide more stability for a foundation.
Foundation Solutions The types of foundations used in homes and other buildings vary by region, climate and building size, but the foundation method used most frequently in new home construction in Texas – the concrete slab-on-grade foundation – registers the poorest performance on expansive soils. When soils expand and contract, pressure can create uplift against concrete slabs, causing damages such as cracking, water leaks, broken pipes or water lines, and interior drywall damage.
While a slab-on-grade foundation generally is less expensive than an elevated solution, builders utilizing this method may be sacrificing quality and creating a higher risk of foundation damage in the future. As an alternative, Tella Firma’s solution offers a cost-effective elevated slab option that protects the foundation against soil movement, but represents a much lower cost than a traditional pier-and-beam.
Even in the presence of volatile Texas dirt, the Tella Firma foundation rests on solid ground.
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Sometimes the proof is in the details. By paying special attention to the home features and options buyers value the most, custom builders can help ensure their projects command the highest price at the time of sale, while also protecting the buyer’s investment and value over the long term.
We’ve identified four primary areas where the addition of extras can really pay off.
Energy efficiency. According to real estate industry research, 80% of homebuyers say that energy efficiency has a somewhat to very important impact on their selection decision. In fact, Energy Star-rated appliances are at the top of the list of most-wanted home features, and an Energy Star rating for the whole home is very high on the list as well.
Beyond appliances, homebuyers prefer energy efficient features such as LED lighting, intelligent HVAC systems, and tankless water heaters. Also, it’s hard to go wrong with high-quality insulation and energy-efficient windows that reduce heating and cooling costs.
Smart home features. Research also shows that between 65-85% of homebuyers are willing to spend more for homes with smart technology installed, with the Millennial generation representing the demographic group with the greatest interest in this area. Think about pre-wiring the home and installing some of the features that tech-savvy consumers want most – wireless home security systems, programmable thermostats, security cameras, lighting control systems, and wireless home audio systems, for example.
Design features. The design of the home itself is another important consideration, as 65% of homebuyers say the most influential characteristic when buying a home is “living space and number of rooms that meet their needs,” according to a study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Prospective buyers tend to focus first on the number of rooms and details of the floor plan: 60% of homebuyers are willing to pay more for a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, for example, and 40% would pay more for an eat-in kitchen. Buyers also appreciate features such as flex rooms, garage storage and outdoor living space.
Beyond considerations related to the layout and flow of the home, buyers focus on quality and appearance when looking at most home components (such as flooring, doors, kitchen countertops, cabinets and carpeting) but also focus on brand name when it comes to appliances. More than 50% of prospective buyers would pay more for granite countertops in the kitchen, and 41% are willing to pay more for stainless steel appliances.
Structure. Finally, certain aspects of the structure of the home itself will appeal to homebuyers looking for long-term value in their investment. Quality materials used in windows, roofing and ventilation are key considerations for many homebuyers.
The foundation of the home cannot be overlooked in its importance to the performance of the structure over time. One new option from Tella Firma is an elevated slab foundation, which appeals to buyers in many locations due to its cost-effective solution that protects the foundation against movement in areas with unstable soil conditions.
The Bottom Line. If you keep these four areas in mind when planning your next custom home build, it will likely pay off in the long run – for you and your buyer.
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Innovative Foundation Solution Receives Good Marks at Spanish House Immersion School
The new Spanish House Immersion School in Dallas gets an “A” for design and functionality, but the site it’s built on almost received a failing grade before construction began. “It was one of the most complex type of building sites you could have,” says Richard Atchison, whose firm, FORM studios Architecture, completed the new building for the elementary school after utilizing an innovative solution from Tella Firma to build a solid foundation on unsolid ground.
When FORM studios began planning for the new school near White Rock Lake in Dallas, it found the building site less than ideal for a standard foundation on piers. The site was located in a former flood plain, near a park and golf course, and featured the deep clay soil that is typical of neighborhoods in and around East Dallas. To make matters worse, the low lying elevation required 8 feet of land fill to elevate the building pad above flood plain levels before foundation work could begin.
The construction team was worried about potential soil movement that might cause a traditional foundation to become unstable and fail over time. Soil remediation was one option, which would require a 10-12 foot excavation before layering in new soil and non-expansive fill to prevent further expansion, but this method would add $3-5 per square foot and add more than a month to the construction schedule. Water or chemical injection was not an option for this site because of the high water table and environmental concerns.
The potential vertical rise (PVR) of the soil suggested that a suspended foundation and pier solution were required. In addition, the high water table meant the drillers would probably hit water as they installed the piers. Seeking a more affordable solution that wouldn’t require the additional expense of remediation, the team first considered bell piers to avoid the water table, and also considered a slab-on-void box foundation, which would cost between $25-30 per square foot.
Then the team learned about Tella Firma Foundations from TEXCON concrete contractors, which had experience installing more than 100 foundations utilizing the Tella Firma process in residential construction. Tella Firma uses a field-tested, patented process to elevate a slab-on-grade foundation using piers, to create a protective void between the ground and the foundation itself. Tella Firma’s solution for the Spanish House school would include an 8-inch raised foundation that isolates the slab from active soils and guards it from unexpected movement.
The Tella Firma suspended solution works well when high PVR and settlement are present on a site, which was the case for the Spanish House school. The elevator in the building still required a slab-on-void box foundation on four piers to support the additional weight, with an 8-inch void to match the Tella Firma foundation, which was lifted around the elevator pit. The foundation also was designed to support and counterbalance a scissor-lift platform used during construction and the installation of plumbing and other components.
The project was completed on time and on budget during a 7-month construction schedule, ready to open for the new school year in August 2016. Atchison said he was pleasantly surprised with the outcome of the building’s foundation, and noted that FORM studios would have been unable to complete the project on budget otherwise. In total, the Tella Firma solution saved the builder close to $100,000, and the school was able to consider additional design features based on this savings.
FORM studios is now working with Tella Firma on The Kingdom Life Church project in Frisco,Texas, and Atchison says the excellent report card from the Spanish House Immersion School means his firm will definitely work with Tella Firma on other projects.
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The foundation of a quality constructed home or building is the foundation. While architects and home buyers are typically focused on style, design and features, a builder’s first focus – before construction even begins – is preparing the lot and laying the foundation.
But it’s not quite as simple as just clearing the land and pouring cement. A builder first needs to consider the type of foundation that is best suited for a particular project, which requires evaluating a number of factors that may steer you toward one solution or another. We call these the “Five Cs”:
Composition of soil.Everything starts with a good soils report from a Geotechnical Engineer. This report will tell the builder the composition of the soils on the building site, including the potential activity of the soils over time at your specific site – not just the top layer of soil but also underneath. A soil test that gathers soils samples down 20-30 feet will provide the full picture. Active soils act like a sponge, expanding significantly when wet and shrinking when dry.
Condition of lot.Are there a lot of trees and vegetation on the lot, or is the lot barren? Will you be removing a lot of trees and vegetation or adding trees and landscaping once the house is finished? Both will alter the soil conditions under the foundation, either increasing or decreasing moisture content. You also need to check the drainage and terrain – is it primarily flat or hilly? If the builder needs to level the lot by either removing or adding soil, that will also change the condition.
Construction type.Beyond soil conditions, the type of construction and the specific location will affect the decision about a foundation. For example, some residential areas may be zoned for certain types of construction. Will your home’s exterior be masonry such as stone or brick, or will it have siding? Will the roof be tile or composite or shingle? Masonry exteriors and tile roofs are heavy materials and will increase the load on the foundation. The foundation must be designed to carry the loads of the structure and also withstand any potential movement in the soils.
Clock.The timeframe for construction is usually a factor, particularly when considering weather and potential delays. If the builder needs to perform dirt work such as cutting or filling the existing terrain to create a level building site, that will require additional time. In addition, if soil conditions require the builder to replace active soils with more stable soils, or inject the soils with chemical stabilizing liquids, this will also add significant time to the timeline.
Cost.The cost of the foundation you choose is a key consideration, and your decision may depend on several factors. For example, a lower-cost slab can be installed if remediation is performed to active soils, reducing or eliminating possible soil movement, but that comes at a cost. Alternatively, if the soils are not remediated and a low-cost slab is installed on active soils, there is a high probability that foundation damage could occur in the future, leading to post-construction costs. Although more expensive, the most effective foundation against possible soils movement is an elevated slab, such as a pier-and-beam system that takes soil movement out of the equation.
As you think about each of these factors, there will be a number of tradeoffs to consider. One of the main considerations is installation cost vs. quality, since a higher-quality foundation can often be more expensive and may require more time to install. While a simple slab-on-ground foundation generally is less expensive than an elevated solution, you could be sacrificing quality and creating a higher risk of foundation damage in the future.
For custom or higher-end properties, you and your builder may agree that a quality foundation is worth the investment. Even with elevated foundations, there are options to streamline the process. For example, Tella Firma’s solution offers a cost-effective elevated slab option that protects the foundation against soil movement, but is a much lower cost than a traditional pier-and-beam. In addition, utilizing Tella Firma helical piers in the construction process will allow for very fast pier installation, even in bad weather.
All of these factors are important in the decision about what foundation to use for your project. If you and your builder take time to consider the Five Cs, you will be well on your way toward building the confidence that comes from knowing your project is built on a solid foundation.
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How to Make Sure Your Dream Home is a Sound Investment
After years of wishing, saving and planning, the time has finally come to build the home of your dreams! Most homeowners will spend plenty of time in advance thinking about the floorplan and visual look of the home, with a particular focus on the various surfaces and features that are visible throughout the residence – floors, countertops, appliances, tiles, and more.
Certainly these design features make a big impact. But it’s equally important to think beyond the surface and consider other features that can make a home more energy efficient, more comfortable, more sustainable, and perhaps save money over time. Here are some of the key areas where you can take that look beyond the surface.
Inside the Walls
Think Smart. It helps to plan ahead if you want to incorporate smart-home technology, and you need to make sure you have an adequate number of electrical outlets, in-wall transmitters and data cables to support computers, entertainment systems, home security and the latest technological goodies. Consider asking your builder to add a neutral wire at each wall switch, required for many types of products, as well as deep junction boxes that offer more flexibility when you’re selecting technology. A whole-house surge suppressor is a good idea too.
Don’t Forget the Airwaves. Much of today’s smart home technology runs on Wi-Fi. And with larger homes, installing multiple routers will provide better connectivity throughout the house and ensure a strong signal for each device. Make sure your new home comes with plenty of wires and cables, and think about placement carefully.
Stand Tall. If you’re looking for strength and stability in construction, engineered studs may be the answer. They are more expensive than traditional lumber products, but some contractors believe the outcome may be worth the expense, particularly in rooms where cabinets must hang straight or where an architectural feature takes center stage.
Under the Floors
Nice and Toasty. One of the most useful and luxurious features in a new home may be radiant heating under the floors in certain rooms. Not only can it help save money on heating costs, but most homeowners appreciate this feature in bathrooms and kitchens where cold tile floors can present a chilling experience during winter months.
Quality from the Ground Up. Each new home project begins with a solid foundation, but the performance of the foundation itself may be hindered over time by unstable soil conditions. One solution is a new type of elevated slab foundation from Tella Firma, which protects the foundation against soil movement at a much lower cost than an alternative pier-and-beam foundation.
Above the Ceiling
High and Dry. High-quality insulation in the attic can provide an energy-efficient solution that saves money in the long term by keeping a check on energy usage. Closed-cell foam spray insulation is preferred by many homeowners for its strength, performance and the tight barrier it creates against air and moisture.
The Right Light.LED lighting not only produces a brighter light than conventional bulbs, these bulbs are also more energy efficient and last longer. Homeowners purchase fewer bulbs over time, and see real savings on energy bills and maintenance.
Get Smart. Most HVAC manufacturers offer smart thermostats that allow homeowners to monitor and control temperatures and usage through a phone app, but newer intelligent HVAC systems can go much further by diagnosing problems and improving the performance of heating and cooling technology.
When planning a dream home, if you keep these ideas in mind, your home will not only be a dream to look at, it will also represent a long-term investment that’s efficient, comfortable and strong.
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Tella Firma Foundations Surpasses 1,000th Foundation Milestone, Celebrates Installation at Lennar’s Parkside Development in Irving, Texas
Milestone signifies Tella Firma’s strategic move toward volume home builders
(IRVING, Texas—May 17, 2017) Tella Firma Foundations (www.tellafirma.com) announced today that the company’s elevated foundation solution has been purchased and installed in 1,000 homes to date, as Tella Firma accelerates its growth strategy throughout Texas and the Southwest.
Tella Firma’s partnership with Lennar Homes exemplifies Tella Firma’s strategic transition to work with volume builders of subdivision communities, in addition to the company’s initial focus on custom home builders. Tella Firma signed an exclusive agreement with Lennar in 2015 to bring its elevated slab foundations to the Parkside development in Irving, Texas, marking the first such agreement to work with a volume builder. Subsequent agreements have included volume deals with Pacesetter Homes and Avi Homes, both for the Whisper Valley planned community in East Austin. As Tella Firma continues to ramp up this aspect of its growth strategy, the company expects to reach 10,000 foundation installations per year within the next five years.
“This achievement demonstrates the success of Tella Firma’s innovative solution, not only among custom home builders but among some of the nation’s most prominent production builders as well,” said Jim Fontaine, CEO of Tella Firma. “We are experiencing greater acceptance of our product among all home builders, not only because it represents a cost-effective option, but also because builders recognize that our foundations can be a key selling point for homebuyers based on the quality and long-term value.”
In many areas of Texas and the Southwest region, active soils can cause foundation problems due to movement and settlement. By using a field-tested, patented process of elevating a slab-on-grade foundation using piers, Tella Firma creates a protective void between the ground and the foundation itself. This application isolates the slab from active soils and guards it from unexpected movement. It also significantly reduces the risk of cracks and movement in conventional slabs that typically occur in later years.
“Lennar is known for its commitment to quality, value and integrity as the underlying foundation upon which our company was built,” said John Bishop, Vice President of Construction for Lennar Homes. “These principles are demonstrated further through our partnership with Tella Firma for the Parkside development. We have implemented the Tella Firma system in Parkside for almost two years, and have received positive feedback from our homebuyers.”
The Tella Firma foundation system is based on commercial engineering principles in practice for over 50 years. Tella Firma foundations utilize a green installation process to avoid the need for any type of chemical or water injection into the soil under the foundation. In addition, the air pocket created under the slab provides an insulation layer between the floor of the home and the ground.
About Lennar Homes
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s largest builders of quality homes for all generations. The Company builds affordable, move-up and retirement homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance and closing services for both buyers of the Company’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about the Company may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website, www.lennar.com.
About Tella Firma Foundations
Dallas-based Tella Firma is a construction technology firm that is revolutionizing the way home foundations are built. Tella Firma gets its name from the Latin words meaning “strong home.” Foundations with the company’s product have been installed in residential and light commercial projects in Texas and Colorado, and the company continues to expand into new markets throughout the region. For additional information, visit tellafirma.com.
https://tellafirma.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tella_Firma_Logo_Color_450.png00dustyhttps://tellafirma.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tella_Firma_Logo_Color_450.pngdusty2017-05-17 16:46:342017-05-17 16:46:34TELLA FIRMA FOUNDATIONS SURPASSES 1,000TH FOUNDATION MILESTONE
There are big changes coming that will affect building and construction. In part two of a two-part series, Jim Fontaine discusses future trends, including how technology is poised to transform the construction of foundations for residential buildings.
Start at Ground Level: The Foundation
Foundations represent one area where technology can step in and help eliminate some of the challenges we face in construction. Beyond the scarcity of labor felt throughout the construction industry, foundations are prime for disruption based on several factors. First, building a foundation is an inefficient process, and inefficient markets tend to offer the greatest opportunity for change. Second, costs are increasing – not only labor costs due to demand for higher-paying jobs, but also materials costs including the concrete needed to build foundations. Third, in an attempt to keep up with demand, corners are often cut, reducing the quality of the foundation and potentially leading to foundation failure in the future.
Almost half the cost of installing a residential slab foundation is related to the cost of concrete, with the remaining costs from steel rebar, cables, and slab make-up labor. Over half the cost of installing a concrete pier is driven by labor. But what if there was a way to consistently install a high-quality foundation while reducing both concrete and labor costs?
Our company’s work during the past few years proves that an advanced foundation solution – utilizing technology to reduce both labor costs and the amount of concrete used – can offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional construction methods. This approach utilizes a hybrid model featuring an elevated slab-on-grade foundation that introduces a commercial quality solution to residential construction.
One key to this solution has been the introduction of a helical pier rather than a concrete- or steel-cased pier, which offers a number of benefits: faster installation, less dependence on weather, and reduction of labor-related errors. It also uses less concrete and is less dependent on labor than other methods. As such, the cost is reaching the tipping point where the investment in technology is cost-competitive with more traditional options.
Is There a Drone in Your Future?
Are there other areas of construction where we should be looking for similar solutions? Most certainly, and we should embark in that direction. We’re already seeing an impact from the use of drones for surveying and tracking progress at building sites, and some builders are beginning to examine the potential for pre-fabricated construction more seriously. 3D printing may hold promise for future construction of various types of projects, while other advancements in automation – robotic bricklayers, for instance – could one day improve productivity on site.
These developments hold some promise. And while some builders may choose a trade-off, perhaps sacrificing quality and reliability for lower cost, our goal as industry leaders should be to achieve the highest quality available for every project. I’m convinced we can achieve this result, while also reducing materials and labor costs, through improvements in technology.
The impending housing shortage indicates that demand for construction will be strong for the foreseeable future, yet the building industry will be competing with other sectors of the economy for a limited labor supply. The time is right for us to harness solutions that can revolutionize the building industry, reducing costs while improving quality.
https://tellafirma.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tella_Firma_Logo_Color_450.png00dustyhttps://tellafirma.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tella_Firma_Logo_Color_450.pngdusty2017-05-15 18:17:532017-05-15 18:17:53DISRUPTION FOR CONSTRUCTION? Part 2
SUSTAINABILITY IN BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION – WHERE DO WE FIT IN?
Blog, Commercial Construction, Environment, Residential ConstructionHow does Tella Firma contribute to sustainability?
Looking around the industry, there are several key areas of focus where stakeholders in the building and construction sector are beginning to make an impact in terms of sustainability: building design, use of materials, energy use, and impact on land.
In the area of design, the concept of “cradle-to-cradle” design is gaining traction, based on the principles of using materials that can later be reconstituted into other products, and designing buildings that can serve multiple purposes. For example, designs that allow for reconfiguration, that provide easy access for maintenance, and that facilitate replacement of shorter-life-span components, will support the transition from one use to the next. Cradle-to-cradle builders use production techniques that are not only efficient, but are essentially waste-free.
As construction is believed to consume about half of all resources we take from nature (including about 25% of the wood harvest), building materials are a prime focus in sustainability efforts. Solutions include not only an increased use of recycled and reclaimed materials, but also innovative efforts such as utilizing recycled construction and demolition (C&D) materials in new construction, thus avoiding the need to mine untouched resources while also eliminating the disposal of construction waste.
On a related note, the selection of materials in the building process also has an impact on energy usage. Since much of the energy used in construction relates to the production of bulk materials including steel, cement, paper, plastic and aluminum, designing buildings with alternate materials, or with more efficient use of materials, also will reduce energy consumption.
For example, the production of cement, which is indispensable for construction, accounts for about 5% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Tella Firma’s process for building a slab-on-grade foundation consumes on average 25-30% less concrete than alternate methods, which not only saves money but also helps reduce the amount of greenhouse gases produced through cement production.
The use of land has many potential effects on the environment, caused by factors including deforestation, agriculture and land development. Some types of land development, such as suburbanization, can contribute to a number of environmental concerns, including increased air pollution and the formation of urban and suburban heat islands. In addition, land pollution caused by the deposition of solid or liquid waste materials, on the land or underground, is a concern in terms of public health and longer-terms effects on the environment.
Introducing chemicals into the environment through the land is one particular area of consideration when thinking about sustainability, and Tella Firma is proud that its innovative process for building an elevated slab-on-grade foundation does not require any type of pre-treatment for the soil, such as water or chemical injections that might change the composition of the soil or harm the environment.
One thing is certain: Responsible construction and development must continue, to keep up with growth in population, communities and businesses. With Tella Firma’s green foundation solution, we’re doing our part to help the construction sector work toward a more sustainable future.
TELLA FIRMA FOUNDATIONS ANNOUNCES NEW HEAVY-DUTY COMMERCIAL LIFTING MECHANISM FOR ITS PATENTED ELEVATED FOUNDATION PROCESS
News ReleaseCommercial builders now have a cost-effective solution for larger size projects based on technology proven successful in light commercial applications
(DALLAS—October 10, 2017) Tella Firma Foundations today announced a new heavy-duty commercial version lifting mechanism that is the cornerstone of its successful and patented elevated slab-on-grade foundation technology that has been used in more than 1,000 building sites in Texas and surrounding states.
The Tella Firma foundation system is based on commercial engineering principles in practice for more than 50 years. The new mechanism can handle approximately double the load of the standard lifting mechanism. Tella Firma has conducted significant testing and analysis to ensure the new heavy-duty commercial lifting mechanism performs well in terms of both axial and lateral load capacity, wind load capacity, and life expectancy.
According to Jim Fontaine, CEO of Tella Firma, the company continues to innovate and collaborate with the commercial construction industry to develop new sustainable solutions for commercial projects based on their expressed needs. “Now commercial builders have a more cost effective means to take advantage of a solution that has been proven successful in the many foundation installations where our company has provided the technology,” he said.
The new product is currently being considered for several new commercial structures under design, including a school and a city municipal building. Many Independent School District (ISD) and other government buildings require either a crawl space or elevated slab solution, making this a primary market for the Tella Firma product.
Innovation through Technology
A Tella Firma lifting mechanism is an enabling component for the process of elevating a slab-on-grade foundation above the ground to create a protective void between the slab and the soil. This innovation isolates the foundation, helping to protect it from damaging soil swells, contractions and movements that may occur in many areas of Texas and the Southwest region, where active soils can cause foundation problems due to movement and settlement.
The Tella Firma lifting mechanism consists of a load-bearing imbed plate that sits atop a pile, a lifting bolt, which bears against the imbed plate, a threaded puck, cast in the bottom of the slab, which accepts the lifting bolt, and a sleeve and cap which prevent concrete slurry from fouling the puck threads during slab concrete placement. The new heavy duty mechanism works with either post-tension or rebar reinforced slabs, and includes a larger lifting puck and larger, heavier bolt to withstand the additional load.
The new heavy-grade commercial lifting mechanism increases the lateral load capacity of the foundation by two to three times. Analysis indicates the solution has a life expectancy of over 100 years under normal conditions.
About Tella Firma Foundations
Dallas-based Tella Firma is a construction technology firm that is revolutionizing the way foundations are built. Tella Firma gets its name from the Latin words meaning “strong home.” Foundations with the company’s product have been installed in residential and light commercial projects in Texas and Colorado, and the company continues to expand into new markets throughout the region. For additional information, visit tellafirma.com.
TELLA FIRMA FOUNDATIONS NAMES RICHARD HOLOMAN, FINANCIAL INDUSTRY VETERAN, TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
News ReleaseFormer PricewaterhouseCoopers executive brings combination of industry and strategic financial experience to board position
Holoman joined Price Waterhouse in 1976 in Charlotte, N.C., and was admitted to the partnership in 1987. His significant industry experience spans financial institutions, oil field services, construction and engineering, automotive retailing, and U.S. inbound investment. Functionally, he has helped clients with many complex problems (domestic and foreign), including mergers and acquisitions, cross-border and cash repatriation strategies, and tax and financial controversies. Upon retirement in 2010, he continued significant teaching responsibilities for the firm for several years.
According to Jim Fontaine, CEO of Tella Firma Foundations, “We are very pleased that Dick has agreed to lend his significant industry and financial experience to the Tella Firma board, and we look forward to his counsel as we take advantage of market opportunities and manage our growth.”
Holoman has held board positions with Vedero Software, prior to its merger with Murata Electronics (Japan), as well as DxUpClose, an early stage in vitro diagnostic company. He previously held board positions with the Charlotte Choral Society, Orpheus Chamber Singers, The Vogel Alcove, and The Dallas Opera. Holoman was an advanced course instructor for the U.S. Army at the Naval Amphibious Base in Little Creek, Virginia. He earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a bachelor’s degree in music education from East Carolina University.
The Tella Firma foundation system has been used by dozens of builders, with more than 1,000 foundations installed, and is backed by seven issued patents. Tella Firma foundations are designed to protect a building’s foundation from damaging active soil movement with a field-tested process of elevating a slab-on-grade foundation using piers, creating a protective void between the ground and the foundation itself. This application isolates the slab from active soils and guards it from unexpected movement. Tella Firma’s solution is an environmentally friendly, green installation process that avoids the need for any type of chemical or water injection into the soil as part of construction.
About Tella Firma Foundations
Dallas-based Tella Firma is a construction technology firm that is revolutionizing the way foundations are built. Tella Firma gets its name from the Latin words meaning “strong home.” Foundations with the company’s product have been installed in residential and light commercial projects in Texas and Colorado, and the company continues to expand into new markets throughout the region. For additional information, visit tellafirma.com.
FIND OUT WHY TEXAS HAS SOME OF THE MOST EXPANSIVE SOILS
Blog, Commercial Construction, Residential Construction, Structural EngineeringThe Dirt on Soils in Texas
All soils are not created equal. And when building a foundation, these differences in soil types become critically important.
Some soils tend to act like a sponge, expanding when water is absorbed and shrinking when they dry out. These soils are known by several names – expansive soils, active soils, shrink-swell soils, expandable clay – but the end result is often the same: Expansive soils can cause foundation problems and threaten the structural integrity of any building constructed on a site with this type of soil composition.
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) estimates that half of all homes in the U.S. are built on expansive soils, and half of those homes will experience some level of expansive soil damage. The estimated damage to buildings, roads and other structures built on expansive soil exceeds $15 billion annually, according to an international engineering study, and the ASCE has stated, historically, that expansive soils account for more home-related damage each year than floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.
Globally, expansive soils create serious engineering problems and economic losses in at least 19 countries. Damage in the U.S. is generally concentrated in certain parts of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Colorado, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, and North and South Dakota.
Of the approximate 1.2M annual U.S. housing starts, Tella Firma estimates that over a quarter million housing starts occur in areas with active soils. Texas alone accounts for over 40% of the housing starts with active clay soils.
What’s Underground in Texas?
The Central Texas corridor and coastal areas of Texas have some of the most pronounced regions of expansive soils in the country, and these areas are ripe for enabling foundation damage. Weather itself can pose a problem, with the effects of Texas rain and wind contributing to soil movement and erosion at the base of foundations. Beyond that, rapid population growth, increased urbanization of Texas suburbs, and the expansion into reclaimed farmland are contributing factors to a significant increase in construction where expansive soils are present.
Texas is divided into 21 different Major Land Resource Areas that have similar or related soils, vegetation, topography, climate, and land uses. Here’s what we find in the major metropolitan areas:
Foundation Solutions
The types of foundations used in homes and other buildings vary by region, climate and building size, but the foundation method used most frequently in new home construction in Texas – the concrete slab-on-grade foundation – registers the poorest performance on expansive soils. When soils expand and contract, pressure can create uplift against concrete slabs, causing damages such as cracking, water leaks, broken pipes or water lines, and interior drywall damage.
While a slab-on-grade foundation generally is less expensive than an elevated solution, builders utilizing this method may be sacrificing quality and creating a higher risk of foundation damage in the future. As an alternative, Tella Firma’s solution offers a cost-effective elevated slab option that protects the foundation against soil movement, but represents a much lower cost than a traditional pier-and-beam.
Even in the presence of volatile Texas dirt, the Tella Firma foundation rests on solid ground.
4 OPTIONS THAT DELIVER THE GREATEST RETURNS TO CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS
Blog, Custom Home, Residential ConstructionCustom Home Options that Pay Off
We’ve identified four primary areas where the addition of extras can really pay off.
Energy efficiency.
According to real estate industry research, 80% of homebuyers say that energy efficiency has a somewhat to very important impact on their selection decision. In fact, Energy Star-rated appliances are at the top of the list of most-wanted home features, and an Energy Star rating for the whole home is very high on the list as well.
Beyond appliances, homebuyers prefer energy efficient features such as LED lighting, intelligent HVAC systems, and tankless water heaters. Also, it’s hard to go wrong with high-quality insulation and energy-efficient windows that reduce heating and cooling costs.
Research also shows that between 65-85% of homebuyers are willing to spend more for homes with smart technology installed, with the Millennial generation representing the demographic group with the greatest interest in this area. Think about pre-wiring the home and installing some of the features that tech-savvy consumers want most – wireless home security systems, programmable thermostats, security cameras, lighting control systems, and wireless home audio systems, for example.
Design features.
The design of the home itself is another important consideration, as 65% of homebuyers say the most influential characteristic when buying a home is “living space and number of rooms that meet their needs,” according to a study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Prospective buyers tend to focus first on the number of rooms and details of the floor plan: 60% of homebuyers are willing to pay more for a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, for example, and 40% would pay more for an eat-in kitchen. Buyers also appreciate features such as flex rooms, garage storage and outdoor living space.
Beyond considerations related to the layout and flow of the home, buyers focus on quality and appearance when looking at most home components (such as flooring, doors, kitchen countertops, cabinets and carpeting) but also focus on brand name when it comes to appliances. More than 50% of prospective buyers would pay more for granite countertops in the kitchen, and 41% are willing to pay more for stainless steel appliances.
Structure.
Finally, certain aspects of the structure of the home itself will appeal to homebuyers looking for long-term value in their investment. Quality materials used in windows, roofing and ventilation are key considerations for many homebuyers.
The foundation of the home cannot be overlooked in its importance to the performance of the structure over time. One new option from Tella Firma is an elevated slab foundation, which appeals to buyers in many locations due to its cost-effective solution that protects the foundation against movement in areas with unstable soil conditions.
The Bottom Line.
If you keep these four areas in mind when planning your next custom home build, it will likely pay off in the long run – for you and your buyer.
NEW SCHOOL BUILDING GETS AN “A” FOR FOUNDATION
Blog, Building Foundation, Commercial ConstructionInnovative Foundation Solution Receives Good Marks at Spanish House Immersion School
The new Spanish House Immersion School in Dallas gets an “A” for design and functionality, but the site it’s built on almost received a failing grade before construction began. “It was one of the most complex type of building sites you could have,” says Richard Atchison, whose firm, FORM studios Architecture, completed the new building for the elementary school after utilizing an innovative solution from Tella Firma to build a solid foundation on unsolid ground.
When FORM studios began planning for the new school near White Rock Lake in Dallas, it found the building site less than ideal for a standard foundation on piers. The site was located in a former flood plain, near a park and golf course, and featured the deep clay soil that is typical of neighborhoods in and around East Dallas. To make matters worse, the low lying elevation required 8 feet of land fill to elevate the building pad above flood plain levels before foundation work could begin.
The construction team was worried about potential soil movement that might cause a traditional foundation to become unstable and fail over time. Soil remediation was one option, which would require a 10-12 foot excavation before layering in new soil and non-expansive fill to prevent further expansion, but this method would add $3-5 per square foot and add more than a month to the construction schedule. Water or chemical injection was not an option for this site because of the high water table and environmental concerns.
The potential vertical rise (PVR) of the soil suggested that a suspended foundation and pier solution were required. In addition, the high water table meant the drillers would probably hit water as they installed the piers. Seeking a more affordable solution that wouldn’t require the additional expense of remediation, the team first considered bell piers to avoid the water table, and also considered a slab-on-void box foundation, which would cost between $25-30 per square foot.
Then the team learned about Tella Firma Foundations from TEXCON concrete contractors, which had experience installing more than 100 foundations utilizing the Tella Firma process in residential construction. Tella Firma uses a field-tested, patented process to elevate a slab-on-grade foundation using piers, to create a protective void between the ground and the foundation itself. Tella Firma’s solution for the Spanish House school would include an 8-inch raised foundation that isolates the slab from active soils and guards it from unexpected movement.
The Tella Firma suspended solution works well when high PVR and settlement are present on a site, which was the case for the Spanish House school. The elevator in the building still required a slab-on-void box foundation on four piers to support the additional weight, with an 8-inch void to match the Tella Firma foundation, which was lifted around the elevator pit. The foundation also was designed to support and counterbalance a scissor-lift platform used during construction and the installation of plumbing and other components.
The project was completed on time and on budget during a 7-month construction schedule, ready to open for the new school year in August 2016. Atchison said he was pleasantly surprised with the outcome of the building’s foundation, and noted that FORM studios would have been unable to complete the project on budget otherwise. In total, the Tella Firma solution saved the builder close to $100,000, and the school was able to consider additional design features based on this savings.
FORM studios is now working with Tella Firma on The Kingdom Life Church project in Frisco, Texas, and Atchison says the excellent report card from the Spanish House Immersion School means his firm will definitely work with Tella Firma on other projects.
WATCH YOUR STEP!
Blog, Elevated Foundation, Residential ConstructionJim Fontaine, CEO, Tella Firma Foundations
The foundation of a quality constructed home or building is the foundation. While architects and home buyers are typically focused on style, design and features, a builder’s first focus – before construction even begins – is preparing the lot and laying the foundation.
But it’s not quite as simple as just clearing the land and pouring cement. A builder first needs to consider the type of foundation that is best suited for a particular project, which requires evaluating a number of factors that may steer you toward one solution or another. We call these the “Five Cs”:
As you think about each of these factors, there will be a number of tradeoffs to consider. One of the main considerations is installation cost vs. quality, since a higher-quality foundation can often be more expensive and may require more time to install. While a simple slab-on-ground foundation generally is less expensive than an elevated solution, you could be sacrificing quality and creating a higher risk of foundation damage in the future.
For custom or higher-end properties, you and your builder may agree that a quality foundation is worth the investment. Even with elevated foundations, there are options to streamline the process. For example, Tella Firma’s solution offers a cost-effective elevated slab option that protects the foundation against soil movement, but is a much lower cost than a traditional pier-and-beam. In addition, utilizing Tella Firma helical piers in the construction process will allow for very fast pier installation, even in bad weather.
All of these factors are important in the decision about what foundation to use for your project. If you and your builder take time to consider the Five Cs, you will be well on your way toward building the confidence that comes from knowing your project is built on a solid foundation.
PLANNING YOUR DREAM HOME – REMEMBER TO LOOK BEYOND THE SURFACE
Blog, Custom Home, Residential ConstructionHow to Make Sure Your Dream Home is a Sound Investment
Certainly these design features make a big impact. But it’s equally important to think beyond the surface and consider other features that can make a home more energy efficient, more comfortable, more sustainable, and perhaps save money over time. Here are some of the key areas where you can take that look beyond the surface.
Inside the Walls
Think Smart. It helps to plan ahead if you want to incorporate smart-home technology, and you need to make sure you have an adequate number of electrical outlets, in-wall transmitters and data cables to support computers, entertainment systems, home security and the latest technological goodies. Consider asking your builder to add a neutral wire at each wall switch, required for many types of products, as well as deep junction boxes that offer more flexibility when you’re selecting technology. A whole-house surge suppressor is a good idea too.
Don’t Forget the Airwaves. Much of today’s smart home technology runs on Wi-Fi. And with larger homes, installing multiple routers will provide better connectivity throughout the house and ensure a strong signal for each device. Make sure your new home comes with plenty of wires and cables, and think about placement carefully.
Stand Tall. If you’re looking for strength and stability in construction, engineered studs may be the answer. They are more expensive than traditional lumber products, but some contractors believe the outcome may be worth the expense, particularly in rooms where cabinets must hang straight or where an architectural feature takes center stage.
Nice and Toasty. One of the most useful and luxurious features in a new home may be radiant heating under the floors in certain rooms. Not only can it help save money on heating costs, but most homeowners appreciate this feature in bathrooms and kitchens where cold tile floors can present a chilling experience during winter months.
Quality from the Ground Up. Each new home project begins with a solid foundation, but the performance of the foundation itself may be hindered over time by unstable soil conditions. One solution is a new type of elevated slab foundation from Tella Firma, which protects the foundation against soil movement at a much lower cost than an alternative pier-and-beam foundation.
Above the Ceiling
High and Dry. High-quality insulation in the attic can provide an energy-efficient solution that saves money in the long term by keeping a check on energy usage. Closed-cell foam spray insulation is preferred by many homeowners for its strength, performance and the tight barrier it creates against air and moisture.
The Right Light. LED lighting not only produces a brighter light than conventional bulbs, these bulbs are also more energy efficient and last longer. Homeowners purchase fewer bulbs over time, and see real savings on energy bills and maintenance.
Get Smart. Most HVAC manufacturers offer smart thermostats that allow homeowners to monitor and control temperatures and usage through a phone app, but newer intelligent HVAC systems can go much further by diagnosing problems and improving the performance of heating and cooling technology.
When planning a dream home, if you keep these ideas in mind, your home will not only be a dream to look at, it will also represent a long-term investment that’s efficient, comfortable and strong.
TELLA FIRMA FOUNDATIONS SURPASSES 1,000TH FOUNDATION MILESTONE
News ReleaseTella Firma Foundations Surpasses 1,000th Foundation Milestone, Celebrates Installation at Lennar’s Parkside Development in Irving, Texas
Milestone signifies Tella Firma’s strategic move toward volume home builders
Tella Firma’s partnership with Lennar Homes exemplifies Tella Firma’s strategic transition to work with volume builders of subdivision communities, in addition to the company’s initial focus on custom home builders. Tella Firma signed an exclusive agreement with Lennar in 2015 to bring its elevated slab foundations to the Parkside development in Irving, Texas, marking the first such agreement to work with a volume builder. Subsequent agreements have included volume deals with Pacesetter Homes and Avi Homes, both for the Whisper Valley planned community in East Austin. As Tella Firma continues to ramp up this aspect of its growth strategy, the company expects to reach 10,000 foundation installations per year within the next five years.
“This achievement demonstrates the success of Tella Firma’s innovative solution, not only among custom home builders but among some of the nation’s most prominent production builders as well,” said Jim Fontaine, CEO of Tella Firma. “We are experiencing greater acceptance of our product among all home builders, not only because it represents a cost-effective option, but also because builders recognize that our foundations can be a key selling point for homebuyers based on the quality and long-term value.”
In many areas of Texas and the Southwest region, active soils can cause foundation problems due to movement and settlement. By using a field-tested, patented process of elevating a slab-on-grade foundation using piers, Tella Firma creates a protective void between the ground and the foundation itself. This application isolates the slab from active soils and guards it from unexpected movement. It also significantly reduces the risk of cracks and movement in conventional slabs that typically occur in later years.
“Lennar is known for its commitment to quality, value and integrity as the underlying foundation upon which our company was built,” said John Bishop, Vice President of Construction for Lennar Homes. “These principles are demonstrated further through our partnership with Tella Firma for the Parkside development. We have implemented the Tella Firma system in Parkside for almost two years, and have received positive feedback from our homebuyers.”
The Tella Firma foundation system is based on commercial engineering principles in practice for over 50 years. Tella Firma foundations utilize a green installation process to avoid the need for any type of chemical or water injection into the soil under the foundation. In addition, the air pocket created under the slab provides an insulation layer between the floor of the home and the ground.
About Lennar Homes
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s largest builders of quality homes for all generations. The Company builds affordable, move-up and retirement homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title insurance and closing services for both buyers of the Company’s homes and others. Lennar’s Rialto segment is a vertically integrated asset management platform focused on investing throughout the commercial real estate capital structure. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. Previous press releases and further information about the Company may be obtained at the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website, www.lennar.com.
About Tella Firma Foundations
Dallas-based Tella Firma is a construction technology firm that is revolutionizing the way home foundations are built. Tella Firma gets its name from the Latin words meaning “strong home.” Foundations with the company’s product have been installed in residential and light commercial projects in Texas and Colorado, and the company continues to expand into new markets throughout the region. For additional information, visit tellafirma.com.
DISRUPTION FOR CONSTRUCTION? Part 2
Blog, Residential ConstructionJim Fontaine, CEO, Tella Firma Foundations
There are big changes coming that will affect building and construction. In part two of a two-part series, Jim Fontaine discusses future trends, including how technology is poised to transform the construction of foundations for residential buildings.
Start at Ground Level: The Foundation
Foundations represent one area where technology can step in and help eliminate some of the challenges we face in construction. Beyond the scarcity of labor felt throughout the construction industry, foundations are prime for disruption based on several factors. First, building a foundation is an inefficient process, and inefficient markets tend to offer the greatest opportunity for change. Second, costs are increasing – not only labor costs due to demand for higher-paying jobs, but also materials costs including the concrete needed to build foundations. Third, in an attempt to keep up with demand, corners are often cut, reducing the quality of the foundation and potentially leading to foundation failure in the future.
Our company’s work during the past few years proves that an advanced foundation solution – utilizing technology to reduce both labor costs and the amount of concrete used – can offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional construction methods. This approach utilizes a hybrid model featuring an elevated slab-on-grade foundation that introduces a commercial quality solution to residential construction.
One key to this solution has been the introduction of a helical pier rather than a concrete- or steel-cased pier, which offers a number of benefits: faster installation, less dependence on weather, and reduction of labor-related errors. It also uses less concrete and is less dependent on labor than other methods. As such, the cost is reaching the tipping point where the investment in technology is cost-competitive with more traditional options.
Is There a Drone in Your Future?
Are there other areas of construction where we should be looking for similar solutions? Most certainly, and we should embark in that direction. We’re already seeing an impact from the use of drones for surveying and tracking progress at building sites, and some builders are beginning to examine the potential for pre-fabricated construction more seriously. 3D printing may hold promise for future construction of various types of projects, while other advancements in automation – robotic bricklayers, for instance – could one day improve productivity on site.
These developments hold some promise. And while some builders may choose a trade-off, perhaps sacrificing quality and reliability for lower cost, our goal as industry leaders should be to achieve the highest quality available for every project. I’m convinced we can achieve this result, while also reducing materials and labor costs, through improvements in technology.
The impending housing shortage indicates that demand for construction will be strong for the foreseeable future, yet the building industry will be competing with other sectors of the economy for a limited labor supply. The time is right for us to harness solutions that can revolutionize the building industry, reducing costs while improving quality.