What Every Homeowner Should Know about SIP Panels

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are high-performance panels used for building exterior roofs, walls, and floors in light commercial and residential construction. These panels have a core of insulating foam sandwiched between two wood panel skins, typically OSB (oriented Strand Board). SIPs are manufactured under strict control and can be constructed to fit any architectural design.

In general, the foam core of the panel is composed of Polyurethane, EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), Polyisocyanurate, or XPS (Extruded Polystyrene). During the manufacturing process, structural adhesive is used to adhere the wood panels to the foam core by a lamination process. Usually, the fabrication process of SIPs begins with a CAD drawing of the structure or building.  The manufacturers convert the CAD drawings and either enters them into CNC manufacture machines or cuts them by hand, according to the CAD specifications. Channels or chases for electrical wiring and plumbing are cut into the foam core. Recesses are built around the sides and edges to accept dimensional lumber or connection splines.

Through controlled factory conditions, SIP panels produce more strength than wood framing. Once they are ready, the manufacturer ships them directly to the job site.

• These panels are available in standard sizes (4’X8’) but they can range in sizes up to 8’X24’ panels. In thickness, they vary from about 4 ½ to 12 ½ inches. They provide a range of R-values that usually comply with the insulation requirements of different climate zones.

• R-Control SIP panels are used in multifamily and single residential buildings and light commercial buildings. 

• Along with floors, walls, and roofs, foundations of buildings also utilize SIPs for a better insulation quality.

Why Consider SIPs for Homes?

A structural insulated panel is a building system that is extremely strong, saves builders time, is cost effective, energy efficient, high-performce and a “green building”.

Energy Savers

A green building brings along two anchor points, thermal efficiency, and energy use. Buildings that are energy efficient will generate fewer amounts of carbon dioxide and have a smaller impact on the environment. The foam core of a SIP panel provides continuous insulation thus increasing thermal efficiency. Building with SIPs enables structures to use minimal framing for construction. The more a building utilizes stick framing, the more energy is lost through thermal bridging.  SIPs panels help to establish a simple, continuous and effective barrier. They are airtight and this quality helps to keep the home or building insulated to reduce its energy consumption. 

Environmental Friendly

With the rising concerns over global warming, Structural insulated panels help to save the environment. Through these SIP panels, builders and designers focus on reducing the environmental impact of commercial buildings and homes.  SIPs help to save energy and natural resources by providing a healthier indoor environment for people living in the building. These panels are both efficient in terms of resources and energy efficient, making them a safe choice for high performing green structures. The OSB in SIPs panels are made from certified forest grown trees and the insulating core is lightweight structural foam with a composition of 98% air. EPS foam insulations are a blowing agent that doesn’t threaten the ozone layer of the earth. 

By using less energy as compared to other buildings, SIP panels cut down the emission of carbon dioxide. According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), on average, a home emits as much as 22,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, that is twice as much as a car. Homes constructed with SIPs can reduce the emission of carbon dioxide by 50%.

SIP Panels Help to Save Money

In addition to the benefits above, SIPs help to trim down the building cycle. Less skilled labor can install SIPs rather than traditional stick framing. Swift construction translates to less overhead costs and additional profits for building multiple homes at the same time. SIPs can also reduce job site waste disposal costs because their fabrication takes place off site at the manufacturing facility. Energy efficient SIP panels allow for the use of smaller HVAC equipment, minimized duct runs and heating costs during the process of construction.

Structural insulated panels come with many other important benefits that make them a preferred choice for a building system. They help to block moisture and wind to create a clean, quieter interior environment that contributes to the buildings comfort.