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Structural Insulated Panels: Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I end up with a better structure?
SIP's out perform other building methods in virtually every category because the insulation is a component of a system, rather than thrown in when every thing else is about done. Even 4 inch SIP walls have been proven to surpass 6 inch frame walls in whole wall and clear wall R-Value.
Why should we use a SIPs Panel Foundation?
Wood foundation walls are stronger than concrete block walls. A foundation wall's biggest challenge is resisting lateral forces rather than holding up the weight of a building. The preservative treatment is effective in resisting damage from moisture and insects. Wood foundations for most homes and small commercial structures can be installed in a day, as opposed to at least four days for forming, pouring and curing. Panelized foundation panels have R-values of 33. It would take a 4 1/2 inch concrete wall to equal that value. Panelized foundation panels can be easily be designed for any building type, size or shape.
How do SIPs compare in Costs?
There is very little job site waste saving in landfill fees. This, along with labor savings, faster dry in time, better drywall utilization offers savings that are realized when you chose SIPs.
Why do SIPs outperform other houses?
SIP buildings are vastly more energy efficient, quieter, and draft free than other technology systems, like stud framing with common fiberglass insulation. Rigid insulation is used as a solid component insulation in almost every industry for its inherent efficiency and lack of air movement. These attributes are built right into the SIPs building. 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.
How are electrical and plumbing installed?
Each panel "has chases" that are built into the foam cores that work like conduit. Electricians use a fish tape and feed the wires through panels without compressing insulation or drilling through studs. Plumbing is not usually placed in walls, especially exterior walls, but through the floor into the bottom of cabinets. Where exterior wall vent pipes are necessary, chases can be formed in the foam cores.
Why are SIPs more Environmentally Responsible?
• Less job site waste means less landfill use.
• Lower heating bills translates to lower energy (fossil fuel) consumption.
• Use of fast growth harvested farm trees rather than old growth forests.
• Up to 35% less raw timber use in SIP buildings.
• Lower reported energy costs.
Why are SIPs so much stronger?
SIPs are a structural composite, kind of like an “I” beam. The skins act like the flanges and the rigid core similar to the web. 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. Earthquakes in Kobe, Japan and North Ridge, hurricane Andrew, A Colorado tornado, a Portland gas explosion and an Omaha fire, have done more to prove SIP strength to the homeowners than all of the scientific tests combined.
How do SIPs react to fire?
Fire requires three components, fuel, ignition and oxygen. SIPs have no air within their solid cores of insulation. The fire cannot, run up the wall cavity even when balloon framed. SIPs have passed every standard fire test that is required of wood based or type V construction. A key element of fire safety is protection of the SIPs and any other underlying structure with thermal barriers like gypsum wallboard and intumescent fire retardant paint.
What are the benefits of Fiber Cement SIPS?
The panels are ready to finish on both the interior and exterior sides. No Drywall to Hang. No additional Vapor Barrier needed. Requires no special tools. The embedded connector system prevents air infiltration, reduces heat loss, and provides for a nearly continuous insulation value. The Concrete panels contain no CFC's and eliminate lumber usage. Panels are moisture, mildew, termite and impact resistant and will not warp, decay, soften, or swell. |
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