Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs, is a method of construction that is more energy efficient, comfortable, and affordable. Because there is more demand for environmentally friendly policies, this system has increased in popularity in the U.S. over the past 50 years.
SIPs construction can be used for all types of construction projects, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural. The materials used in SIPs construction are more environmentally sustainable than those used in traditional building construction.
What Are SIPs?
Structural insulation panels are made by sandwiching a core of rigid foam plastic insulation between two structural facings, such as oriented strand board (OSB). They are custom designed for each project.
SIPs are available in a variety of thicknesses. They can be used for walls, floors, and roofs in all types of buildings.
Benefits of SIPs Construction
SIP technology has many advantages over traditional construction methods. Here are some key benefits.
Faster Construction
SIPs are pre-made before arriving at the jobsite. That eliminates the need to frame, insulate and sheath, like with traditional stick-framed walls. Framing time can be cut by around 50% over wood framing, and even more over a brick building. Panels are much larger, so entire walls and roofs can be built much more quickly. The core of panels usually has the electrical chases already provided, so there is no need to drill through studs for electrical wiring.
Green Building
SIP buildings provide better insulation and are extremely airtight, which provides a more comfortable indoor environment. The jobsite waste is minimized, and the panels save natural resources. SIPs have a very positive impact on the environment by reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions over the life of the building.
Mold Resistance
SIP panels have no cavities where moisture can permeate. Because SIPs construction forms such an airtight envelope, moisture is at a minimum. The extremely low levels of air infiltration only allow controlled amounts of incoming air. Appropriate dehumidification will create an environment where mold cannot physically grow.
Compatibility
SIPS can be used with most other traditional building materials. They can be installed over concrete foundations. They can be seamlessly incorporated with stick framing. SIP walls can be combined with a truss roof, or a SIP roof with stick walls.
Energy Efficiency
SIPs construction often allows the building to be equipped with smaller HVAC units and decreased ductwork.
Durability
SIPs materials are extremely strong. Their structural characteristics resemble that of a steel I-beam.
Money Saving
Since there is less labor required to erect SIPs and the project is completed more quickly, the customer saves money on the construction. Because of the higher energy efficiency ratings and better insulation, owners will experience decreased utility bills.
Aesthetics
SIPs can be used to create open or vaulted roof spaces more easily that a conventional trussed roof.
SIP technology is more energy efficiency, allows quicker completion, and saves you more
Get started today!
RT ConstructionCan Build SIP Buildings
If you are interested in the SIP construction technology, give us a call. We are proficient in this type of building and can answer any questions you may have.
