FAQ
1/ What is the background to MAK-Styrocon® technology?
The MAK-Styrocon® panel was first patented by the originator, Professor Julius Elischer of Perth. Australia in 1971. The product has since been developed to the point where it is now regarded internationally as a superior wall paneling system. We manufacture both in Australia and internationally.
2/ What is MAK-Styrocon®?
As a product type MAK-Styrocon® is a lightweight interlocking sandwich panel using two facings of fibre cement sheet with a cementious core incorporating lightweight aggregates and non-toxic chemicals. Once the panels are erected, the surface is finished and does not require further work.
3/ In what size are MAK-Styrocon® panels manufactured?
The standard thicknesses are 50mm, 75mm and 100mm (made to special order). Normal widths are 600mm and 900mm. Standard heights range between 2400mm and 3000mm however it is possible to manufacture 3600mm in height.
4/ Where is MAK-Styrocon® used?
MAK-Styrocon® can be used as external or internal walls in conventional buildings, remote area housing, transportable houses, demountable housing, disaster shelters, partition walls, fire rated walls, sunscreens and facades on multi level buildings. Panels may be used for floors and roofs. Panels can also be used for animal pens, sheds, fences and many other farm uses.
5/ Can MAK-Styrocon® be used in load bearing situations?
50mm thick MAK-Styrocon® panels used in single storey house walls are capable of accepting up to ten times the conventional roof loading. MAK-Styrocon® panels used as load-bearing walls in two storey building structures result in fast and efficient construction.
6/ What are the advantages of using MAK-Styrocon® over traditional wall types?
MAK-Styrocon® combines speed of assembly, quality finish. high fire rating and the solid masonry feel, while eliminating wet trades. Good thermal and sound transmission co-efficient make it an ideal solution for almost all internal and external wall requirements.
7/ Can MAK-Styrocon® be used in any climate or are there restrictions like seismic conditions?
There are no restrictions to MAK-Styrocon® use. Though special design techniques must be employed where seismic or high wind load conditions exist. For freeze thaw conditions, a suitable surface sheet must be used or a special treatment applied to the panels.
8/ Do the walls have a solid masonry feel to them?
Yes, in fact this is a very basic requirement for our MAK-Styrocon® structures in the Middle Eastern markets where down through the ages people have related thick masonry to coolness and physical protection. Panels once erected give a similar appearance and feel as brickwork.
9/ If the panels are damaged or altered can they be repaired?
Yes. MAK-Styrocon® panels may be easily repaired. Panels can be patched or flushed to give a smooth surface finished.
10/ Can MAK-Styrocon be used as a fire-rated wall?
Yes. Particular care must be paid to jointing methods in the fire rated application. Manuals are available for detailing methods of panel construction and jointing. The 50mm panel is 1 hour fire rated and 75mm 2 hour fire rated in on-load bearing applications.
11/ How are doors and windows fitted?
Wooden doors and windows are fitted in the traditional manner. Aluminum and steel frames are manufactured so that the jambs or stiles surface fit or clamp around the MAK-Styrocon® panel walls.
12/ How are electrical conduits and plumbing installed?
The MAK-Styrocon® panel may be surface chased; the conduit inserted and cut filled, and flushed to a smooth finish. The panel can also be bored down the core to take electrical wiring or other services. Conduits can be put into panels at manufacture for special order.
13/ Have joins and constructions detils been developed professional engineers?
Yes, and thoroughly tested in practice and in our R & D centre in Australia and India. Test results and construction details are available.
14/ Are the panels capable of carrying fixture such as toilet cisterns, cabinets and air conditioning units?
Yes. Fixtures are secured with conventional fixings. A chart is available detailing test results with various fixings.