Watch how our homes perform in real-world disaster tests. From forklift impact to full submersion and flame exposure — our technology is proven under pressure.
At Future Built, we don’t just claim our homes are disaster-resilient — we prove it. Through a rigorous series of real-world tests simulating the most extreme natural disasters, we validate the strength, safety, and sustainability of our modular housing technology. From tornado-force lift tests to full submersion in water and sustained fire exposure, each test demonstrates how our Cemboard-XPS panel system performs under pressure. This page showcases the detailed results of each simulation — so you can see the evidence for yourself.
TESTING PAGE
Each of our disaster simulation tests — tornado lift, earthquake impact, hurricane collision, flash flood submersion, and wildfire burn — has been rigorously documented and independently verified. Our results demonstrate the exceptional strength and environmental performance of Cemboard-XPS modular homes in real-world extreme conditions.
Click below to download the complete reports:
Tornado Lift Test Report (PDF)
Earthquake Impact Test Report (PDF)
Hurricane Impact Test Report (PDF)
Flood Submersion Test Report (PDF)
Fireproofing Burn Test Report (PDF)
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TORNADO LIFT TEST
Test Name: Tornado Lift Simulation
Model Size: 40" W x 57" L x 41" H on a foundation 52" W x 73" L x 19" H
Test Equipment: Heavy-duty forklift with vertical lift capability
Objective: To simulate the violent upward suction force experienced during an EF-3 to EF-5 tornado event, this test aims to prove the structural integrity and anchoring strength of the modular housing unit.
Procedure:
Results:
Conclusion: The test confirms that the Cemboard-XPS modular system can resist the powerful uplift forces caused by a tornado. Even when lifted as a whole structure, the home maintains full integrity and structural stability.
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The forklift is carefully positioned to lift the structure from beneath the foundation.
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The model is raised off the ground several inches to simulate the sudden vertical force experienced during tornado suction.
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It is held suspended for 30 seconds before being gently lowered back down.
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Engineers record structural flexing, if any, at joints, roof seams, and panel edges.
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No damage or detachment of the roof or walls.
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No warping, cracking, or panel displacement.
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The foundation and wall-panel anchoring remained completely intact.
Conclusion: The test confirms that the Cemboard-XPS modular system can resist the powerful uplift forces caused by a tornado. Even when lifted as a whole structure, the home maintains full integrity and structural stability.
EARTHQUAKE IMPACT SIMULATION
Test Name: Earthquake Impact Simulation
Model Size: 40" W x 57" L x 41" H on a foundation 52" W x 73" L x 19" H
Test Equipment: Heavy-duty forklift to deliver simulated vertical seismic shocks
Objective: This test simulates the sudden vertical jolt that occurs during a major earthquake, helping evaluate the panel system's ability to absorb and redistribute seismic energy without structural fail.
Procedure:
o The forklift was used to lift the house model several inches vertically and drop it repeatedly to create strong shock pulses.
o The structure was subjected to multiple controlled vertical impacts, mimicking ground acceleration.
o Observations were made at every critical joint, panel seam, and anchoring point before and after impact.
Results:
o No visible deformation or structural cracks.
o Corner joints, roof, and floor remained tightly sealed.
o Panels absorbed the impact effectively without compromising integrity.
Conclusion: The test demonstrated that the Cemboard-XPS panel system has excellent seismic resilience. Its flexible core and reinforced skin allow it to absorb strong vertical and lateral shocks, making it ideal for earthquake-prone regions.
HURRICANE FORKLIFT TEST
Test Name: Hurricane Impact Simulation
Model Size: 40" W x 57" L x 41" H on a foundation 52" W x 73" L x 19" H
Test Equipment: Heavy-duty forklift to simulate high-speed debris impact
Objective: To evaluate the home’s ability to withstand horizontal impact forces similar to those generated by debris during a Category 5 hurricane.
Procedure:
o A heavy-duty forklift was driven directly into the side wall of the house model at controlled speeds.
o Multiple impacts were delivered at different angles and heights to replicate varying storm debris trajectories.
o Engineers examined the structure after each strike for panel deflection, joint failure, or material damage.
Results:
o All panels remained intact with only minor surface abrasions.
o No penetration, cracking, or failure in wall connections or frame.
o The modular system absorbed and distributed the shock evenly across its surface.
Conclusion: The hurricane forklift test confirmed that the Cemboard-XPS panel system offers superior resistance to wind-driven impact. Its rigid shell and reinforced core are built to protect lives and withstand the harshest storm conditions.
FLOOD SUBMERSION TEST
Test Name: Flash Flood Simulation – Submersion Test
Model Size: 40" W x 57" L x 41" H on a foundation 52" W x 73" L x 19" H
Test Setup: Water tank constructed from 7/8” thick Cemboard panels
Objective: To verify the water resistance and airtight seal of the modular home model when fully exposed to flash flood conditions over an extended period.
Procedure:
o The house model was placed in a Cemboard-lined water tank and filled with water to reach near the window level.
o The unit remained fully submerged for 72 hours.
o Sensitive indicators, including paper towels, sensors, and interior cameras, were placed inside to detect any moisture or leakage.
Results:
o No signs of water intrusion or panel degradation.
o The Cemboard-XPS panels and sealed joints remained fully intact.
o Internal materials, windows, and door systems were unaffected.
Conclusion: The modular home successfully endured 72 hours of high-pressure submersion, proving its flood resilience. The Cemboard-XPS construction offers a waterproof barrier ideal for flood-prone zones, providing unmatched safety during natural disasters.
FIREPROOFING BURN TEST
Test Name: Controlled Wildfire Burn Simulation
Model Size: 40" W x 57" L x 41" H on a foundation 52" W x 73" L x 19" H
Test Materials: Dry scrap wood stacked around and over the model to simulate wildfire fuel
Objective: To test the fire resistance of the Cemboard-XPS modular home system when surrounded by and in contact with sustained open flame conditions, simulating the exposure faced in a wildfire event.
Procedure:
· Scrap wood was stacked around the perimeter and roof of the modular home model.
· The wood was ignited and left to burn until completely turned to ash (approximately 30–45 minutes).
· High-heat exposure, smoke, and direct flame surrounded the home for the duration of the test.
· Post-burn, structural inspection and infrared scanning were performed to check for heat penetration or internal damage.
Results:
· Exterior panel surfaces showed minor discoloration but no combustion.
· No ignition of Cemboard-XPS materials.
· Roof and walls remained structurally intact with zero internal heat damage.
Conclusion: The fireproofing burn test demonstrates the exceptional thermal resistance of Cemboard-XPS technology. Even in direct, prolonged fire exposure, the modular system remained undamaged, making it a secure choice for wildfire-prone areas.