Frequently Asked Questions

What are SIPs?

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are highperformance
building panels used in floors,
walls and roofs for residential and light
commercial buildings. The panels are made
by sandwiching a core of rigid foam plastic
insulation between two structural facings, such
as oriented strand board (OSB). Other skin
materials can be used for specific purposes.
SIPs are manufactured under factory controlled
conditions and can be custom designed for
each project. The result is a building system
that is extremely strong, energy-efficient and
cost effective. Building with SIPs is smarter all the way around.

How much faster can I build with SIPS

SIP homes go up much faster than traditionally framed buildings. A properly trained
SIP installation crew can cut framing time by 55 percent compared to conventional
wood framing, according to a third-party study conducted by R.S. Means. Panels are
manufactured as big as 8- by 24-foot, so entire wall and roof sections can be put up quickly,
reducing dry-in time. SIPs are ready to install when they arrive at the jobsite, eliminating
the time needed to perform the individual jobsite operations of framing, insulating and
sheathing stick-framed walls. Electrical chases are typically provided in the core of panels,
so there is no need to drill through studs for wiring.

Are SIPs compatible with other building systems?

SIPs are compatible with almost any building system. Wall panels can sit on a variety of
foundation materials, including poured concrete, blocks, or insulated concrete forms. SIPs
are sized to accept dimensional lumber and are seamlessly compatible with stick framing.
Builders may choose to build with SIP walls and a conventional truss roof or stick walls
and a SIP roof with little difficulty. SIPs are also popular as a method of providing a wellinsulated
building enclosure for timber frame and steel structures.