You are here: The Artisans Group Blog > Energy Efficient Structural Insulated Panels (SIP)

Energy Efficient Structural Insulated Panels (SIP)

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are a highly energy efficient building panel used in the construction of walls, floors and roofs, for both light commercial and residential buildings. These high performance panels are comprised of a core of rigid foam insulation that has been sandwiched between two structural skins, OSB (oriented strand board) is commonly used. Because SIPs are made in a factory, under controlled conditions, not only are they of the highest manufacturing quality, but they also can be custom designed to meet the specific needs of each building.

Although one would think using SIPs would be more costly than conventional wood frame construction, SIPs are actually LESS expensive thanks to a variety of factors that come into play during construction. These include:

• Reduced construction time (important in our wet climate)
• Reduced job site waste
• Smaller heating and cooling units needed due to increased energy efficiency

Often a 1500 square foot home can be constructed in half the time of a typically framed home. Also, with a well designed and built SIPs home, the job waste is greatly reduced do to the prior engineering and manufacturing of all parts. The structure basically arrives on site as a custom pre-cut ‘kit’ ready to assemble by the crew.

It should be noted that occupant comfort in a SIPs structure is very high. With an appropriate indoor air handling system, this type of building will be draft-free, quiet and exceptionally comfortable. Much of the warmth and comfort in a SIPs home comes from limited ‘thermal bridging’. In a conventionally framed home, every stud used acts as a small thermal bridge to conduct heat out or allow cold air in. Given the continuous nature of SIPs, the result is very restricted opportunities for heat transfer.

Although the initial upfront costs of SIPs may be a little more than buying dimensional lumber and plywood, the cost savings are quickly realized. In the end, the SIPs panels create a highly energy efficient building, which provides continued utility savings and comfort over the life of the structure.

Tags: Design, Energy Efficiency, energy savings, green, new home, new home construction, Remodel

Related Posts

• Fiddling on a Green Roof
• Crystal Cabinets
• Solar Tutorial Part A – The Very Basics
• The true cost of energy efficiency-is it worth it?
• Passive House Heating 101-Energy Efficient Homes

RSS feed

Comments

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.