Most Asked Questions About Structural Insulated Panels

What are Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

SIPs are prefabricated High-Performance building panels composed of a foam core sandwiched between a structural grade sheathing material consisting of oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, or other structural facing material such as magnesium cement board (MgO). When the materials are bonded through the lamination process, they form a structural, load-bearing insulated panel. SIPs are manufactured in a controlled factory environment, where precision cutting and fabrication ensure consistency and quality. This prefabrication process allows for faster construction on-site, reducing labor costs and project timelines. Additionally, due to the pre-cutting and numbering of the SIP, the number of skilled craftsmen is reduced from what is required for a traditional build. SIPs can be customized to accommodate various architectural designs, and building requirements, making them versatile and adaptable for different construction projects.
How do SIPs work?

SIPS can be a load-bearing panel that provides structural support, insulation, and airtightness in buildings. SIPs handle building loads like steel I beams and can be used as the building structure or an insulated infill wall or building cladding system.Despite their lightweight design and super-insulating properties, SIPs offer excellent structural strength and load-bearing capacity. The structural-facing materials, such as magnesium cement board, provide rigidity and stability, allowing SIPs to support the weight of the building and resist external forces such as wind and seismic loads.SIPs provide superior energy efficiency due to their airtight design and continuous insulation, significantly reducing heat loss and energy costs.
What are the benefits of using SIPs?

The advantages of SIPs over traditional construction methods include energy efficiency, faster construction times, reduced labor costs, and improved indoor air quality.

SIPs are prefabricated off-site, allowing for faster construction compared to traditional stick-built methods. This can significantly reduce construction timeframes, leading to cost savings and earlier occupancy.

SIPs often qualify for green building certifications and energy-efficient incentives, providing financial benefits through tax credits or rebates

Energy-efficient high-performance homes are often more attractive to buyers, potentially increasing resale value and reducing time on the market. Many states have already adopted labeling, requiring disclosure of home energy use. Labeling will cause traditionally built homes to appraise lower than high-performance, energy-efficient homes.
Can SIPs be used in all climates?

Yes, SIPs perform well in various climates, offering insulation in cold environments and minimizing heat transfer in warmer regions.
Are SIPs environmentally friendly?

SIPs offer maximum energy efficiency and potential for reducing carbon emissions over the lifetime of a building. Additionally, magnesium cement SIPs are considered a low-carbon building material as magnesium cement requires one-third the fuel to produce as Portland cement, thereby reducing the carbon footprint by 2/3 when compared to Portland cement.

SIPs are made from renewable materials, such as wood and foam insulation, and can contribute to green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Additionally, the energy efficiency of SIPs reduces overall energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions over the lifetime of the building.
What types of projects are SIPs suitable for?

SIPs are versatile building materials that can be used in residential, commercial, or industrial construction projects, as well as for renovations and extensions.

SIPs can be used for walls, roofs, and floors, offering versatility in design and construction. They can accommodate various architectural styles and building configurations, making them suitable for a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

SIPs are suitable for a wide range of construction projects, offering energy efficiency, durability, and fast construction times. Their versatility makes them a preferred choice for builders, architects, and developers seeking high-performance building solutions across various sectors.
How are SIPs installed?

SIPS can be precut in the factory to a specific design and shipped directly to the job site as a kit including all parts and accessories required for the installation. As most of the complicated measuring and cutting is done in the factory, SIPs are installed in the field with predominantly semi-skilled labor which is more readily available in most markets.

SIPs facilitate faster construction compared to traditional methods due to their prefabricated nature and simplified installation process. Builders can erect SIPs quickly, reducing labor costs and project timelines.
Are SIPs cost-effective?

SIPs construction costs are comparable to masonry construction costs. The more efficient the design (less waste) the lower the manufacturing and construction costs of the SIP Structure. When SIPs are produced and installed in numbers, additional manufacturing and installation savings can be recognized because of the repetition of tasks. Other potential long-term energy savings are reduced heating and cooling costs, 50% – 75% less than a traditional home and these savings are for the life of the home, 30, 40, 50 years, and more! These savings add up to tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the home.

While the upfront cost of SIPs may be higher than some traditional building materials, the long-term savings in energy costs, reduced labor expenses, and faster construction timelines often outweigh the initial investment.
Do SIPs meet building codes and regulations?

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are designed and manufactured to meet building codes and regulations in various jurisdictions.

InnovaPanels© are Miami Dade NOA approved for the high-velocity wind zones (+180 mph wind loads) and Florida products approved for all regions.

SIPs are widely accepted by building officials and code authorities in most jurisdictions. They are recognized as a legitimate building system and are listed in building codes such as the International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC).
How do SIPs compare to other building materials?

SIPs are used to replace traditional construction materials like timber framing, masonry, concrete, and steel, in terms of cost, performance, and sustainability. SIPs offer unmatched energy efficiency and are the foundation of net zero construction, offering a highly insulated, near-airtight building envelope.

Traditional materials like timber framing or concrete may require additional insulation to achieve similar energy efficiency levels, potentially increasing construction time and costs.

SIPs offer impressive structural strength and durability. Their engineered design provides exceptional load-bearing capacity and resistance to natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes.
What maintenance do SIPs require?

All buildings, regardless of the building materials used require periodic maintenance. SIPs are no different and can provide 50 to 100 years or more of useful life if properly maintained.

Proper moisture management is crucial to the long-term performance of SIPs. Ensure that the building envelope is well-sealed to prevent water intrusion, and promptly address any leaks or moisture issues to prevent mold or rot. Regularly inspect and maintain the exterior finishes, roofing, and caulking to keep water out.

Proper ventilation and HVAC systems are essential for maintaining indoor air quality and preventing moisture buildup within the building envelope. Regular maintenance of HVAC systems can help ensure optimal performance and maximum energy efficiency for the life of the building.

Follow specific maintenance recommendations provided by the SIP manufacturer, as these may vary based on the type of SIP and installation conditions and environment in which the SIP is installed