Kwikbuilt Prefabricated Structural Systems

A hybrid structural approach combining suspended floor construction, structural insulated panel concepts and conventional framing for adaptable New Zealand homes.

A Flexible Approach to Modern Construction

The choice between a suspended timber floor and a concrete slab-on-ground often depends on site topography, climate, budget and design requirements.

Kwikbuilt brings together the advantages of suspended floor construction with structural insulated panel concepts and conventional framing. The result is a hybrid structural system developed to support functionality, comfort, versatility and efficient project delivery.

This approach can be particularly relevant for sloping, uneven, rocky or wet sites where reducing earthworks and maintaining access beneath the floor may provide practical advantages.

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Key Advantages of Suspended Timber Construction

Suited to Sloping Sites

Suspended floors can follow uneven ground using piles, stumps or piers, reducing the need to create a completely level building platform.

Reduced Earthworks

Compared with a concrete slab on a difficult site, the system may require less excavation, levelling and retaining work.

Accessible Building Services

The space beneath the floor can provide easier access to plumbing, electrical wiring, gas lines and ducting.

Comfort Underfoot

Timber has natural insulating properties, warms more quickly than concrete and provides a more forgiving surface underfoot.

Lower Site Disruption

A pier-based approach can reduce disturbance to topsoil, drainage patterns and surrounding root systems.

Efficient Construction Progress

Timber framing does not require slab curing time, allowing following trades to begin work sooner once the structure is ready.

How the Kwikbuilt Approach Comes Together

Suspended Timber Floor or Concrete Slab?

The appropriate foundation and floor approach depends on the characteristics of the project. Concrete slabs are commonly suited to flat, stable ground and provide high thermal mass.

Suspended timber floors can be advantageous on sloped, rocky or wet sites. They generally require less ground levelling, allow easier access to services beneath the floor and provide a softer feel underfoot.

Consideration Concrete Slab Suspended Timber Floor
Typical Ground Flat, stable soil Slopes, rocky terrain or wet soil
Earthworks More levelling may be required Smaller support locations may reduce excavation
Service Access Services may be embedded in the slab Services remain accessible beneath the floor
Feel Underfoot Hard and solid Softer and more forgiving

Ready to specify precision?

Our technical engineering team is ready to assist with full heat load calculations, schematic integration, and installer certification for your next project.

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Where Kwikbuilt May Be Considered

The suitability of any structural system depends on site conditions, engineering requirements, design preferences and the overall project brief.

Sloping or Uneven Sites

Projects where minimising excavation, retaining work and disturbance to the natural terrain is important.
Homes where future access to plumbing, electrical wiring, ducting or other services may be beneficial.

Projects Requiring Service Access

Homes where future access to plumbing, electrical wiring, ducting or other services may be beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kwikbuilt system?
KwikBuilt is a hybrid structural approach combining suspended floor construction, structural insulated panel concepts and conventional framing.
Suspended timber floors can be particularly useful on sloped or uneven sites because piles, stumps or piers can follow the terrain with less need for extensive levelling.
A suspended timber floor typically requires less ground levelling on difficult sites and provides access beneath the floor for services. A concrete slab generally provides greater thermal mass and is commonly suited to flat, stable ground.
A suspended floor creates space beneath the building, which can make plumbing, electrical wiring, gas lines and ducting easier to access for maintenance or future changes.
Timber has natural flexibility and insulating properties. It generally warms more quickly than concrete and provides a softer, more forgiving feel underfoot.
Not every structural system is appropriate for every site. Suitability should be considered in relation to the site, engineering requirements, climate, budget and design preferences.
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