Went to a home show last weekend and spent some time with a contractor who builds and installs SIP panels. He claims they are nine to ten times stronger than conventional stick built construction, and of course the insulation factors are dramatically better without all the thermal transfer through the studs.
If this technique is so great why isn’t everybody using it? I am planning a new home in a cooollld part of the state and the improved insulation would be a big plus.
What’s the verdict from all of you completely unbiased, intelligent and experienced builders out there?
Thanks,
Chip
Replies
I am not a builder, I'm an architectural intern and I don't know that I can claim to be completely unbiased because I built with them but the quality panels do live up to their claims. More people are building with them every day too.
Thermasteel makes a good alternative to OSB Sips that uses metal studs. I like R-Control for the OSB version.
Kevin Halliburton
"Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men." - Solomon
SIPs have been discussed many times here over the years. Searching the archives should net you plenty of info and opinions.
It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees [Dolores LaPasionaria, 1936]
I'm no expert, but my understanding is that SIPs really are that good. One big drawback, though, is that you need to figure out other places to run your plumbing and wires. It can be done, but needs some extra planning.
My panels have built in wire chases at 12" and 48" horizontal and every 48" vertical. Now that is convenience... I try to avoid plumbing in exterior walls if possible but chases can be built into panels for just about anything. I have an embedded steel column in one of mine.Kevin Halliburton
"Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men." - Solomon
I think they are kinda pricey, and then of course your electrician will raise his price too. We have framed several jobs with them. the G.C. always thinks he'll get a break on my framing price too, but really thats not as much of a factor as one might think. Especially when they start using them for roof panels... ugh.
That said, if and when I build my own mansion on the hill, i'll use them, because the resulting house is solid, quiet, and warm. They make nice cathedral ceilings...paired with structural timbers - very nice.
So dont be afraid of them, just try to get subs who have used them a few times.
Thanks for the input. I plan on using an architect and if we go with SIP then the architect will need to be comfortable with using them. You are right about finding a good contractor with SIP experience. Any preference of urethane vs EPS as insulation in the panel? I would think a foamed urethane panel would outperform an EPS one because it will be a better bond to the OSB and it will have a superior R factor.
Chip
Poly is better but not enough to justify the much greater expense (IMHO).Kevin Halliburton
"Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men." - Solomon
I've built and lived in two houses made with SIPs. I agree with Wrecked Angle, and I'd certainly do it again. Especially in windy country. You still need to seal up/caulk the rim joists and any exterior openings (electric outlets, hose bibs, etc.)
D&L
Mostly they require change, and people don't like to change.
Also, it requires a higher degree of advanced planning than many spec builders like to do. The degree of planning is appropriate for a better-quality contracted home, but the architects and builders don't have the experience to make them inclined to do it, except when forced.
And of course there's cost, but mostly that problem would be solved by a higher volume.