Creating the framework for modern living.
Learn how our AAC block and metal phase sets a new standard in durability and precision.
Most homes are only structurally supported by a foundation and wood framing. Petra homes combine the strength of autoclaved aerated concrete blocks (AAC), poured concrete foundation, 20+ helical piers, and steel trusses + framing to ensure our residences are as structurally sound as possible. All of our structural materials carry the highest possible safety and stability rating while naturally resisting dangerous conditions like termite damage, water damage, and fire damage, and mold growth.
Simply put: our homes are built to last from every angle.
Block Phase
AAC blocks, created by combining five naturally occurring elements with water under the high pressure of an autoclave, are a gold standard material and the core of our construction. The blocks are foamed with hydrogen, providing an end result that offers excellent heat insulation throughout the entire home, helping to reduce air-conditioning costs by about 25%. Additionally, every water line, PVC pipe, electrical wire, and HVAC duct is insulated during our build process to make our homes as energy efficient as possible.
Metal Phase
Steel studs, more commonly known as "metal framing", are U-shaped, high strength building materials that specialty contractors and commercial builders often use in place of wood framing. Despite being a far superior material to wood, metal framing is less common in the residential industry because the cost to build with them is much higher than that of lumber. Additionally, working with metal framing requires special tools, trained framers, and higher transport costs - since it's not as readily available as wood framing.
Autoclaved aerated concrete is a commodity building product in Europe and the Middle East - and a large portion of the residential construction industry abroad. However in America, AAC is considered a 'specialty product' due to it's scarcity and high cost of procurement so it is typically only seen in commercial or luxury construction. We have spent years searching for the right suppliers that will support our mission of making this commercial-grade material available for residential construction.
In our opinion, cutting construction quality to cut cost doesn't align with our core values and misson, so we've chosen to exclusively use metal for all of our framing requirements. Like aerated concrete, steel framing is highly durable and will not bow, warp, rot, or become damaged during a water event (like a flood or hurricane).