Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are high-performance building panels used on floors, walls, and roofs for residential and light commercial buildings. The panels are made by sandwiching a core of rigid foam plastic insulation between two structural facings, such as the Oriented Strand Board (OSB). Other skin materials can be used for specific purposes. SIPs are manufactured under factory-controlled conditions and can be custom designed for each project. The result is a building system that is highly robust, energy efficient, and cost-effective. Building with SIPs will save you time, money, and labor.
SIPs are highly efficient due to their continuous insulation layer, which eliminates gaps or thermal bridges found in stick frame construction. This results in better insulation, reduced air leakage, and improved energy savings. SIP homes typically have higher R-values, keeping interiors more comfortable year-round with less reliance on heating and cooling systems.
While the initial cost of SIPs may be higher than traditional stick framing, the overall cost can be lower in the long term due to faster construction time and significant energy savings over the lifespan of the building. Additionally, reduced maintenance and the potential for lower utility bills make SIPs a cost-effective investment.
SIPs are one of the most environmentally responsible building systems available. It provides continuous insulation, is extremely airtight, allows for better control over indoor air quality, reduces construction waste, and helps save natural resources.
SIPs are highly efficient due to their continuous insulation layer, which eliminates gaps or thermal bridges found in stick frame construction. This results in better insulation, reduced air leakage, and improved energy savings. SIP homes typically have higher R-values, keeping interiors more comfortable year-round with less reliance on heating and cooling systems.
SIP construction is generally faster than stick frame construction because the panels are pre-manufactured to exact specifications. Once on-site, they can be quickly assembled, often reducing overall build time by 30-50%. This means your project can be completed in a shorter timeframe, saving on labor and construction costs.
SIPs are versatile and can be used for a variety of building types, including homes, commercial buildings, schools, and even garages. They are ideal for both single-story and multi-story structures, and can be customized to fit specific architectural designs and building requirements.
The structural characteristics of SIPs are similar to that of a steel I-beam. The OSB facers act as the fiange of the I-beam, while the rigid foam core provides the web. The design gives SIPs an advantage when handling in-plane compressive loads.
A high-performance SIP building enclosure often allows smaller HVAC equipment to be specified. It’s important to work with a qualified HVAC professional that can accurately estimate the low levels of air infiltration in a SIP home or commercial building.
SIP buildings are extremely airtight with air leakage rates well less than three air changes per hour at 50 Pascals of pressure (3.0 ACH50) and require mechanical ventilation.
Yes! Please see our Preflex Best Practices Information under the Resources Section of the web site.
SIPs provide a continuous layer of insulation across the entire wall without gaps or thermal bridges. In contrast, stick frame walls have studs spaced apart, creating gaps that reduce their overall insulation performance. SIPs generally have a much higher R-value than stud frame walls, offering superior thermal resistance and better energy efficiency. SIPs provide significantly better insulation than traditional stud frame construction, which leads to more energy-efficient buildings and lower heating and cooling costs over time.
Yes, modifications and additions to a SIP building are possible, but they may require some adjustments to ensure the integrity of the insulation and structural panels. It’s always best to consult with a professional who has experience working with SIPs if you plan any major renovations or expansions.
SIPs require very little maintenance compared to traditional framing. The materials are designed to last for many years without significant wear and tear. As long as the panels are installed correctly and not exposed to excessive moisture, they should remain in good condition with minimal upkeep.
