Structural Insulated Panels by SIPerior Homes.

Thermal Performance

The best category in which SIP homes surpass standard stick-framed homes is thermal performance. True-wall-value takes into account thermal bridging where solid wood takes the place of insulation. Thermal bridging in SIP walls accounts for a loss of about 13.6 %, whereas stick homes typically loose about 28%. For example, 6 ½” SIP wall panels rated at R-25 produces a whole-wall value of about R-21.6. In comparison, a stick framed home, with studs spaced at 24″ on center, containing R-19 fiberglass insulation, drops to about R-13.7. Further loses occur when fiberglass insulation is installed with gaps around pipes and wiring, when it is compressed, and when even small amounts of moisture inters the bay. It is not uncommon for R-19 fiberglass to provide an actual value of only R-11.

Comfort

SIP walls, with their solid insulation and minimal structural bridging, are poor conductors of sound. This is a particularly appreciated feature for those living near schools, freeways, trains, or noisy neighbors. Inhabitants of SIP homes report that their homes are more evenly conditioned, and that they are quieter.

Strength

SIP panels resist bending much like an I-Beam does. The two sheets of OSB work like the top and bottom flanges and the foam like the webbing. Likewise lateral loads are no match for a SIP house. This is of particular importance for windy and earthquake prone regions. They are stronger in terms of shear resistance, flexural strength, compressive resistance, and uplift resistance.

Ease of construction

While the experienced framer may have to rethink construction methods, a SIP home requires less skill to build than does stick framing. Extensive studies have shown that ready to install SIP packages require 2/3 the amount of time that equal stick framed structures require. Builders across the country have found that they can save time and money by erecting a ready-to-install wall assembly rather than having a crew assemble them on site. I personally like to think of them as “adult Lego’s © .”

No Attic!

Attics exist where a void is created between rafters and ceiling joists and as a means to provide slope in order to shed water. In the summer attics become an oven located directly above the spaces that we spend money to keep cool. In the winter precious heat is lost to them. SIPs allow construction without an attic. In a SIP home, the roof is insulated, rather than the ceiling. Air temperatures between the roof and an optional lowered ceiling are moderate.

Eves

There are no out-riggers and no rafter tails. This saves time and material, creates a clean look, and reduces maintenance. SIP roofs do not require venting, saving construction time and minimizing opportunities for pesky birds and animals to enter.

Insect and rodent resistant

Our SIP panels embody a natural mineral which resists insects and rodents; consuming it would be similar to eating glass. Because SIP walls are solid, you can rest assured that you won’t find critters running around in your walls or roof.

If you are interested in an Energy Efficient home that has superior strength and the ultimate in green insulation, contact us today and let us answer any questions you may have. We’ll get the ball rolling on your project with complete design and planning right through finshed construction. Just click here to get started.

Affordability

Up Front

Typically SIP homes have an “up front” cost of between 3% and 5% over that of a standard stick framed house. Depending upon design, the differences can be negligible. SIP construction is so unlike stick frame construction that cost comparisons should factor in time and materials required to insulate the walls, and to insulate and vent the attic.

The Bigger Picture

You will save more money per month on energy than you will putting towards increased mortgage payments. Once you have recuperated the extra cost, you will of course continue saving!