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What
exactly are SIPS?
Structural Insulated Panel Systems
The strength of the
adhesive used makes these panels structurally analogous to an I-beam, with
the boards functioning as the flanges and the insulating core as the web.
The panels can be
pre-cut and custom fabricated, and are quickly assembled on-site by
fitting splines into pre-routed grooves in the panel edges to form
virtually any wall or roof configuration.
The result is a simple, fast, highly efficient structural system which
provides superior thermal performance and substantially greater strength
than conventional stud construction.
Is
this a new construction technology?
The idea of SIPs is
far from new.
Structural insulated panels have been used for decades in the construction
of refrigerated buildings, where enduring thermal efficiency is extremely
important.
Homes built with
structural panels have been tested and monitored since the 1930s by the
United States Department of Agriculture's Forest Products Laboratory.
SIPS pioneers saw enormous potential for these panels in both light
commercial and residential construction. In the late 1950s, for example,
the National Association of Home Builders used SIPs in their demonstration
research homes.
In the decades since then, structural insulated panels have proved their
viability in thousands of commercial and residential buildings across the
country. This has been accompanied by significant advances in the
materials and technology of SIPS.
Why the renewed interest
now,
if SIPS have
been around for decades?
As
long as energy costs remained low, construction schedules were leisurely,
labor and lumber were abundant and inexpensive - and profit margins on conventional
construction remained high - there was little incentive for architects, owners, builders or contractors
to utilize new techniques. Today, all that has changed.
Escalating
heating and cooling costs have led owners and tenants to demand greater
thermal efficiency and improved energy performance in their buildings and
homes. Federal, state and local building codes are also mandating improved
energy efficiency.
At the same time, the building and construction market has become more competitive.
Accelerated construction schedules and shrinking profit margins are forcing
builders, contractors and designers to look for more efficient and reliable
construction methods that reduce labor and alleviate the quality variables
that plague stick construction.
SIPS provide practical, proven answers to these needs.
What
are the benefits of building with SIPS?
The rigid insulation
can't sag or shift. Its R-value remains very stable over time and is
minimally affected by moisture. And because there are far fewer
interruptions in the insulation - SIPs span widths from 4' to 24', while
the insulation in stick construction is interrupted by studs every
16" o.c. - SIP buildings greatly reduce air infiltration and thermal bridging.
The energy
efficiency of an SIP structure means reduced heating and cooling loads,
which in turn can mean savings in HVAC equipment.
SIPs also offer savings in ecological terms. Polystyrene insulation can be
recycled, thus reducing landfill waste and easing the demandfor
new petroleum stock. By minimizing the use of dimensional lumber, USA SIPS panels can reduce dependence on old-growth forests, and the
energy efficiency of the USA SIPS system reduces dependence on
nonrenewable fuel resources.
SIP buildings can be far more comfortable and economical to own and
operate than stack-built structures. While this is certainly important in
owner-occupied structures, it also makes buildings much more attractive to
lenders, tenants and buyers as well.
Perhaps even more important in today's construction industry is the speed
and simplicity of SIP construction.
By combining three stages of conventional shell construction - framing,
sheathing and insulation - into a single unit, an SIP structure can be
erected much faster, with less specialized labor, than outdated
sack-building methods. This can mean lower labor and loan expenses, and
quicker occupancy.
Smaller panels can easily be installed by a crew of two with no special
equipment. Panels as large as 8' x 24' can be erected very quickly with
the use of a crane.
USA SIPS panels are available with pre-cut wire chases and window and
door openings, and are numbered for fast, simple installation.
Are
SIPs safe
 SIPS
buildings are significantly stronger than standard stick-built structures
of similar configurations, and the panels' uniformity and one-piece
construction make it much easier to build because they are straight and
plumb. In addition, the two layers of structural board provide each panel
with improved stability, a solid nailing base and increased protection
against vandalism, break-ins and tenant damage.
SIPS have passed rigorous fire endurance tests required by national codes.
Their solid-core construction eliminates the "chimney effect"
that causes fires to spread quickly through hollow stick-built walls.
Don't
prefabricated panels limit design alternatives?
While
the advantages of factory fabrication - such as improved quality control
and assembly efficiencies - areas important as ever, modern SIPS can be
custom fabricated to each project and are just as versatile as
conventional construction.
In fact, the structural integrity of SIPS opens up many exciting new
design options - such as timber framing and cathedral ceilings - which
might not be practical or affordable with traditional construction
methods.
These factors make
SIPS an ideal system for a wide range of light commercial and residential
applications, from retail malls, governmental buildings, offices,
convenience marts, fast-food restaurants and warehouses to such
aesthetically demanding buildings as churches, clubhouses and, of course,
single- and multi-family homes.
USA SIPS panels are available with optional factory-applied interior
finishes of drywall or tongue-and-groove wood. The exterior can be
site-finished in a wide range of materials, including conventional siding,
stucco or brick.
Do
SIPS come with a warranty
Every
USA SIPS panel is backed by a limited warranty. This, along with USA SIPS's
leadership in the structural insulated panel industry, is your assurance
of quality, dependability and value. See USA SIPS's written warranty for
complete details.
Why
should I choose USA SIPS?
The supplier of choice for the
new choice in building materials.
With
more than 30 year's experience in the development and manufacture of
quality construction materials, USA SIPS has the knowledge, resources
and production capabilities for virtually any SIP project, from large
commercial projects, government buildings and mass-produced component
buildings to single-family homes for the most discriminating buyers.
Is
this a quality product?
All
USA SIPS panels are made to demanding quality standards with oriented
strand board manufactured to APA standards for maximum strength and
durability, and are available with expanded polystyrene cores.
Quality control is assured through both in-house controls and
independent third-party testing by PFS Corporation.
Do
SIPS comply with building codes?
USA SIPS has applied to BOCA for
accreditation under their quality system. SIPS
panels are also recognized by the Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) - assuring familiarity and expeditious approval by local
building authorities.
Does
USA SIPS offer support?
Design and construction
support
 USA SIPS
offers a full range of training, engineering and technical support in the
design and construction of an SIPS building, including regular workshops
and seminars.
Staff designer specializing in SIPS design can assist in evaluating SIPS
alternatives, design considerations and construction detailing. USA SIPS
representatives also are available for on-site support.
For Estimates Send Drawings or
Plans to:
USA
SIPS, Inc.
1000 Hwy. 123 South
PO Box 1625
Bartlesville, OK 74005
Interested
in USA SIPS
Construction?
USA SIPS
specialists can provide assistance in obtaining any special permits or
local code approvals that may be necessary.
If you would be interested in shell erection or training in your
area, contact us for a quote.
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