Natural disasters like strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and earthquakes can devastate homes. But what if there was a way to build houses that can withstand these forces? Our New Zealand partner QOROX, is pioneering more sustainable housing with 3D-printed concrete walls that outlast traditional timber frames.
They put their concrete walls to the test against standard timber frames. The concrete wall endured 5780kg of pulling force before failure, while the timber frame crumbled at just 1530kg—demonstrating the concrete’s superior strength.
This test was part of the creation of New Zealand’s first 3D-printed show home in Hamilton, being built by Iconic Construction. The walls meet New Zealand’s Building Code standards for structural integrity (B1) and durability (B2).
3D-printed walls also offer other benefits:
Durability: Resistant to fire, pests, rot, and mold.
Energy Efficiency: Concrete’s thermal mass helps regulate temperature and lower power bills.
Speed: Faster construction times than traditional methods.
Design Flexibility: Precision for custom home designs.
Sustainability: Concrete’s long lifespan reduces the need for frequent replacement
