Jan. 2, 2007 — Steel Panel Foundations announced today that Design Dynamics of Dallas and Farabaugh Engineering and Testing of Pittsburgh will begin testing on its concrete foundation substitute technology.

Utilizing proven technology and a patented design, Steel Panel Foundations’ basement foundation paneling system is a complete, end-to-end structural foundation system offering superior value, durability, strength and construction. The system incorporates galvanized steel studs and track with galvanized painted steel siding covered with a waterproof insulating membrane.

Building on the application of this technology in more than 100 newly-constructed homes in the Midwest, additional testing is intended to help to further establish the basement system as a viable environmental alternative to concrete.

Design Dynamics, which specializes in evaluating the structural integrity of building construction specifications, will assure the long-term structural performance and durability of the steel panel foundation system. Tom Shingler, President of Design Dynamics, will oversee the structural engineering and design aspects of the testing and will rate the Steel Panel Foundation systems against optimal structural engineering requirements.

Farabaugh Engineering and Testing will administer physical testing and product performance against each of the component parts of the Steel Panel Foundation system. Farabaugh will measure individual system parts for air filtration, water resistance, structural integrity, impact resistance and shear rate. The material in the system will undergo certification against American Society for Testing Material (ASTM) and American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) specifications.

“Design Dynamics and Farabaugh Engineering are among the leading independent labs for the performance and structural testing of installed building and construction products,” said Chuck Forner, Chief Product Manager for Steel Panel Foundations. “Despite a track record of more than 100 installations, we felt it was important to further demonstrate the strength and durability of the Steel Panel Foundations system. The two labs will provide the kind of independent evaluation that contractors and end-users can invest in with the utmost confidence.”

Based in Dallas, Texas, Design Dynamics measures the structural durability and integrity of building and construction products and materials. Design Dynamics helps to establish test platforms, assemblies, protocols, and supervises and certifies the results of building and construction products and materials.

Farabaugh Engineering and Testing Inc., Pittsburgh, is an independent testing laboratory providing certified testing and engineering services to clients all over the world since 1985. Farabaugh’s staff comprises professional engineers and lab technicians.

Steel Panel Foundations, LLC was founded to develop innovative steel building products and related building material and services that are economical, strong, dependable, energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly. Utilizing a proven technology and a patented design, Steel Panel Foundations’ basement foundation paneling system is a complete, end-to-end structural foundation system for superior value, durability, strength and construction.