Adapted for California

The panels are attached to the foundation by threaded rods that run through the central straw core of the panel.  The threaded rods are fastened at the top of the panels with plate washers.   Steve Pestell, of Rogina Pestell Structural Engineers, implemented this anchoring strategy as part of a wider effort to adapt Agriboard to California's seismic environment.  The goal was to accomplish this task in an efficient manner that would minimize the redesign of the Agriboard panel while still meeting California approval guidelines.  The panels typically come from the plant with electrical chases that run vertically within the straw core and this anchoring method required minimal change to the production method.