What is the most popular Koto system?
Koto 8 because it can be installed practically anywhere and
complies with any building code.
The Koto 8 system is a series of flexible versatile
light-weight insulated composite forms for foundations, walls,
floors and roofs from single level to multi-level buildings in
either normal conditions or seismic and high-wind-speed
regions, all conforming to code.
Can I build high-Rise with Koto system?
Basic rule of thumb is Koto 8 is ideal up to
7 levels. Anywhere after that the structure converts to a mix n
match system whereby column & beam are used and the Koto 8
panels become the infill panels thereby reducing dead load
weight.
If Koto 8 is a series of Flexible Forms, are
there standards sizes that allows me flexibility of design in
modules?
Yes correct, standard modules are available
in both “Horizontal and Vertical” Forms for easy design,
flexibility and simple installation - all with excellent energy
efficiency.
How long have Koto products been tested in the
market place under various weather conditions?
Since 1974 and no complaints from any
customer.
Do termites damage the substrate like wood?
There is No Nutriment for termites in the
Koto system. We specify two procedures that prohibit termite
entry.
-
All plastic plumbing to have a super fine stainless steel
mesh inserted over the plastic pipe and secured with a
stainless steelhose clamp and tightened before pouring
concrete.
-
When the slab is poured the perimeter footpath to the
building will be included monolithically during concrete
placement.
These two simple measures prohibit termite entry without using
chemicals.
These look like up-market housing, not Low
Cost/Affordable homes– How do they compete against Conventional
Construction?
To date they have competed very well, with good finishes, in
South East Asia or Africa. They are fast to install and look
similar to any other normal monolithic masonry home on the
planet.
Customers tell us they are refreshing in design and provide
the occupants with a higher standard of comfort compared to
conventional construction.
When installed in developed countries where labour is high,
the Koto system is a developers dream.
At Koto, we believe just because some homes or mass housing
is tagged as low cost housing or affordable housing, doesn’t
mean to say they should look like low cost or poorly
constructed, therefore with Koto materials and smart designs
we can contribute to improving the construction industry in
any country. This is truly one of the incredible benefits that
are available using any of the Koto energy efficient IBS
systems – whereas the only difference between markets is the
finish.
Could a Koto home be transported ?
Yes, all Koto structural panels, and the
ancillary joint materials will fit into one 40ft
container/truck.
Can I tile directly onto the Koto Wall Panels
in the kitchen and wet areas?
Yes, you can tile directly onto the fibre
Koto composite material.
Can I apply my own architectural finishes,
textures, or granite and marble over the pre-finished Koto
Panels?
Yes, you can use practically any finish over
the pre-coated composite Koto Panel Forms. The building system
still remains the same no matter what the finish to suit any
individual needs.
What are the fire ratings for the material used
in Koto 8 Panels?
We have many options for fire protection
whereby some panels are 2 hour fire resistant rated, others
achieve ratings in accordance to Code.
What is the fire rating for your high-rise
construction partition walling?
Minimum 2 hours.
Is the Koto system water tight?
Definitely. All Koto Panel Forms should be
installed in accordance to specification.
What if I choose not to use the K-Pod
foundation system – can I still purchase other Koto components?
Yes you can use conventional raft slab
methods however, the K-Pod foundation is a system that engineers
prefer as it prohibits cheating and is a network of beams
connected to a thickened edge beam.
Developers like it because it is a known cost.
What is the life span of the Koto systems?
As the structure is fully protected and the
material is not bio-degradable the life span is greater than
conventional Construction.
In many locations “Conventional Construction”
has a “Dead Load Weight” of 3,400 kg per m3 – what is Koto DLW?
Where low wind speed considered normal the
Dead Load Weight would be 320 kg/m3, whereas in cyclonic high
wind speeds it could reach 390 kg / m3 pending structural
engineers shop drawings.
Either way the Koto system has huge benefits with its “Low”
Dead Load Weight.
Do I need to erect full scaffolding like
conventional flooring for the Koto Floor-Deck System?
No, the Koto Floor-Deck has reinforced ribs
and once placed you can immediately walk on the form without
props, however, we do have different types for different
applications.
How many workers are required to install a Koto
home as seen on youtube in 7 days to 14 days?
7 unskilled men installed the 3 bedroom x 2
bathroom 90 m2 home.