Structurally Insulated Panels
What are they and how can they benefit your new homes construction?
What are SIPs?
SIPs or Structurally Insulated Panels are prefabricated panels of compressed woods with an insulated core. SIPs are used in place of traditional stick-built construction. The ready to use combination of sturdy composition and built in energy efficiency allows for a house to be raised much more quickly. SIPs panels are manufactured according to your home design plans and shipped directly to the building site by a company that specializes in panelized construction similar to modular home construction.
Why Use SIPs?
Unlike traditional lumber SIPs panels are not exposed to elements like rain and sun. This decreases the likelihood of rot and/or mold due to poor building conditions. The longer your home’s frame is open the more exposed it is to these problems. Since SIPs are premanufactured cutting down building time its possible to wait for better weather and build more quickly while favorable conditions are available.
Because there are fewer pieces, there is less chance of error. Everything is premeasured when it comes from the factory. Doors and window cutouts have been made. Wiring channels are already in place. These benefits allow for your home to be built straighter, truer to blueprints, and more structurally sound.
SIPS superior insulating properties are the main thing that draws homeowners to this type of construction. According to performance data, even compared to heavily insulated stick-built construction they are much less likely to “leak” saving up to 50% in heating and cooling costs year-round.
