Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Oct 20, 1999 05:07pm | #1

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   I have used them several times. They are strong and fairly eazy to work with. They go up quick. The siding guys loved them, it was like allways hitting a stud. The big problem is finding a crew to put them up with out overcharging you. Don't forget to factor in the shipping costs.

1. 
   Guest_ | Oct 21, 1999 03:35am | #2

   *The same is true with the sheet rock guy and people who hang anything on the walls - their job is much easier.Every time someone brings up SIPs on this discussion site the "build it best with lots of sticks" pros are very fast to say something less than kind about a system whose time has come.What are you afraid of guys?When Norm Abram built his new shop two years ago he used structrial insulated panels.When asked how he liked the system, he replied "For new construction, I don't think there's any reason to use anything but the panels."

1. 
   Guest_ | Oct 21, 1999 06:50pm | #3

   *I have used sips on about 15 homes over the past 10 years and have had only one call back. The call back concerned an ant infestation. The problem was remedied and the sip supplier started usind an insecticied in the foam. I like the panels and would use them on my own home. Like someone said earlier, it is hard to find someone with experience with them. The panel supplier should have a list of contractors in your area though. Good luck with your project in the long run you will enjoy the panels. One more thing, make sure you use an air to air heat exchanger, otherwise you could end up with a very sick house.

2. 
   Kirsten_ | Oct 21, 1999 07:46pm | #4

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   Yeah, we are planning on an air exchanger. I suffer from horrible mold allergies, so the last thing we want is to have a miosture problem from a house that is too tight.

1. 
   Kirsten_ | Oct 21, 1999 07:50pm | #5

   *Our choice to use SIP's in our construction is based in large part to the fact that "Normie" swears by them and used them in the construction of his shop. My hubby thinks Norm is a god...I am starting to argee (I think he's kinda cute too).

3. 
   Guest_ | Oct 22, 1999 01:14am | #6

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   There is a good article on building with SIPs here http://www.sipsproducts.com/keeper/case/index.html

1. 
   Guest_ | Oct 26, 1999 06:22pm | #7

   *You may want to consider using ICFs for your exterior walls... Just finished a project with them and they create a solid massive wall system that will withstand almost anything... By the way, have you noticed that the Silva Brothers (with the help of TOH and Norm) are rebuilding Dick's home this season and are NOT using SIPs (and not ICFs either!) but are building with 2x6 framing..... I wonder why?Nothing is prefect - but my research concluded that the ICFs (concrete walls) gave me the most structurally sound and energy efficient exterior wall system for my money... And with all of the debate about termites, ants, and infestation of the foam (SIPs and ICFs, etc.) my house will still utimately be held up with reinforced concrete...- John

4. 
   Mad_Dog | Oct 26, 1999 09:24pm | #8

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   Let's not forget who pays the bills for TV shows. Whoever
   is currently paying Norm gets his endorsement. Just take a
   look at his tools and how the brands have changed over the
   years. Worth a grain of salt, I think Norm's a good guy
   too.

5. 
   Kirsten_ | Oct 26, 1999 09:24pm | #9

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   My hubby and I are getting ready to build a house starting Spring of 2000. We are planning on building with structural insulated panels (SIPs) and were curious as to what others with experience either building with or living within their walls thought of them. Any input would be greatly appreciated.