SIPs Overview

WHAT ARE SIPs?

SIPs is an acronym for Structural Insulated Panel System. Joining high performance rigid polyurethane foam insulation to oriented strand board (OSB), cement fiber, drywall, and various other skin combinations produces these engineered building components. SIPs are manufactured under factory controlled conditions and can be custom designed for each home.The result is a building product that is predictable, resource efficient, and cost effective. SIPS are used as floors, walls and roofs on all types of buildings. Building with SIPs will save you time, money and labor.

WHY ARE SIPs SO MUCH BETTER?

SIPs  out perform other building methods in virtually every category because the insulation is a component of a system, rather than an addition. SIPs are a structural composite. In short, the three components work together, rather than against one another. This composite assembly yields stiffness, strength and predictable responses. Not only do test results show panels are stronger, but real life natural disasters have proven it time and again.

SIPs have been used and improved since the 1950's. Our formula is the invention that introduced space technology into the construction market.

• SIPs buildings are more energy efficient, stronger, more quiet and draft free than older technology systems, like timber framing. Less air movement or leakage translates into less drafts, fewer penetrations for noise, lower energy bills and a significantly more comfortable and controllable indoor environment. The result is lower energy consumption and CO2 emissions.
• Factory made with minimal site wastage and less landfill use.

Builders can save money through decreased construction and labor costs. The superior whole wall R-values and building tightness capable with SIPs allow HVAC equipment to be downsized and ductwork to be minimized. Builders can also significantly reduce jobsite waste disposal and temporary heat during construction. Homeowners that incorporate other energy efficient features with SIP construction can benefit from the energy efficiency of a SIP home with reductions in heating and cooling costs of 50 percent or more possible and may, qualify for Energy Efficient Mortgages, and enjoy higher appraised value..

HOW MUCH FASTER CAN I BUILD WITH SIPs?

SIP homes go up faster than traditionally framed buildings. A properly trained SIP installation crew can save a significant amount of time in a build cycle. Panels can be manufactured as big as 8- by 24-ft., so entire walls can be put up quickly, reducing dry-in time. SIPs can be supplied as ready to install building components when they arrive at the jobsite, eliminating the time needed to perform individual jobsite operations of framing, insulating and sheathing stick-framed walls. Window openings may be precut in the panels, and depending on the size, a separate header may not need to be installed. Electrical chases are typically provided in the core of panels, so there is no need to drill through studs for wiring.

HOW DO SIPs SAVE SO MUCH LABOR?

Because SIPs are prefabricated, the amount of additional framing required is minimal. SIPs are always straight and true, there are far fewer callbacks, no culling studs, or need to straighten walls. SIPs also provide a uniform nailing surface for both interior and exterior finishing.

Professionals are increasingly aware of SIPs and there should be no problem designing a building from scratch to use SIPS or modifying an existing design.

SIPs is an accepted building technology and will not cause problems with planning approval. In the same way a well detailed and engineered SIPs design will not raise difficulties with building control. Integrity Building Systems is always available to give advice.

SIPs are compatible with other building systems. Wall panels can sit on a variety of foundation materials, including poured concrete, blocks, or insulated concrete forms. SIPs are sized to accept dimensional lumber and are seamlessly compatible with stick framing. Builders may choose to build with SIP walls and a conventional truss roof, or stick walls and a SIP roof with little difficulty. SIPs are also popular as a method of providing a well-insulated building envelope for timber frame structures.