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A comprehensive knowledgebase of Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs) about Structural Insulated Panels(SIPs)

 

 

 

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SIP Design & Applications (30)
Features & Benefits (37)
Panel Components (28)
Installation (17)
Technical Details (1)
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SIP Comparisons (8)
SIP Supply Brochures (5)

Most Popular Questions


• What are some applications for Structural Insulated Panels in residential projects?
    Full-time Residence Vacation Home Storage Garage Duplex Multi-Fa...
   Rating : Not rated       Views : 927       Last Update : 01-17-2007


• Is a SIP a “green building product?”
   SIP homes require considerably less framing lumber than a conventionally framed home.  Note too...
   Rating :        Views : 806       Last Update : 02-21-2007


• What is a Component Package?
   Component packages offer the simplest form of systems building. The components are delivered to the ...
   Rating : Not rated       Views : 719       Last Update : 04-26-2007


Latest Added FAQs


• What's the Difference between a manufactured and modular home?
   I have found a very informative article, that I believe is one of the most explantory ones to d...
   Rating :        Views : 554       Date Add : 07-03-2007    


• Is it possible to Re-construct or panel over existing homes?

    Technically YES - Realistically - Not recommended. Depends on the designs of the house and what yo...
   Rating :        Views : 423       Last Update : 07-02-2007


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SIP Design & Applications
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   What are some applications for Structural Insulated Panels in residential projects?
   What are some applications for Structural Insulated Panels in commercial projects?
   What are some applications for Structural Insulated Panels industrial projects?
   Is there a new trend in building with SIPs?
   What types of projects can SIPs be used?
   Why is a tight Building Envelope important?
   Can you use ICF forms with Structural Insulated Panels?
   What types of siding can you use with panels?
   Do Panels meet building codes?
   Is it possible to Re-construct or panel over existing homes?

      "Green Building"
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         Can SIPs be used in a passive solar home?
         Is a SIP a “green building product?”
         Are the high efficiency claims valid?
         Is a SIP a “green building product?”
         Are SIPs environmentally responsible?
         Do SIPs contain Formaldehyde?
         Are SIP homes Energy Star rated?
         How long have panels been around?
         What is an Energy Star home?
         What is HERS?
         What happens on a HERS rating?
         I'm buying a new home, why should I get a HERS rating?

         Is there a charge for a HERS rating and who pays?
         Can a HERS Rater recommend the measures I want?
         How does a HERS help a buyer?
         How does a HERS help a seller?
         How do I know I will save money with an EEM?
         Who do the HERS Raters work for?

      Houseplans
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         Is it possible to use a stock houseplan for SIPs?
         Are there floorplans made for Structural Insulated Panel designs?

Features & Benefits
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   What is the R-Value of Polyurethane Panels?
   What is a SIP?
   Are the high efficiency claims valid?
   Are SIP homes too tight for good indoor health?
   What about SIPs in fires?
   Are ants and termites a problem in panels?
   Is a SIP a “green building product?”
   Are panels a nearly foolproof product?
   Bottom line, are SIP houses better?
   What are the features of an SIP Building Envelope?
   Why do SIP homes outperform other houses?
   What does "SIP" stand for?
   Is a Sandwich Panel a SIP?
   Is a SIP Structural?
   Is a SIP Non-Structural?
   What are the Benefits for Homebuyers?
   I am a Builder, how would SIPs benefit my business?
   Why should I choose SIPs?
   How much do structural insulated panels weigh?
   How strong are structural insulated panels?
   What about the fire factor of PUR Panels?
   Can SIPs meet hurricane & seismic code requirements?
   Do you pre-measure & pre-cut for doorways and windows?
   How are panels taxed when shipped from the factory? Since they are a combination of labor and materials, are they taxed on 100% of their cost/price, or are they taxed at some percentage less than that much like with mfg/modular homes?

      Financing
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         I'm buying a new home, why should I get a HERS rating?

         Is there a charge for a HERS rating and who pays?
         How does a HERS help a buyer?
         How does a HERS help a seller?
         What is an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM)?
         What is the benefit in using the EEM?
         How does an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) work?
         Why haven’t I heard about EEM's before?
         Who pays for the EEM energy upgrades?
         My Realtor told me that I shouldn’t bother with the EEM because it would only mess up my deal. Will it?
         I asked a lender about the EEM a while ago and they said they had never heard about it. How do I know it really exists and that I won’t be misled?
         How do I know I will save money with an EEM?
         Can we use the EEM if we are not buying or refinancing a home at this time?


Panel Components
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   What are the typical panel sizes for residential construction?
   What is the width of structural insulated panels?
   What gives a SIP its strength?
   Does the foam lose R-value over time?
   What about SIPs in fires?
   What is a Component Package?
   What is a Structural Envelope?
   What is a Thermal Envelope?
   Do SIPs contain Formaldehyde?
   What constitutes a quality Panel?
   What is the price for raw or blank panels?

      Panel Surfaces
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         What type of "skins" do sip panels have?
         What types of surfaces can be used for a SIP?
         What are the Exterior/Interior Surface Combinations Available?
         Do SIP manufacturers use "Blue Wood" for sip skins?

      Panel Types
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         Is a stressed-skin panel a SIP?
         Is a Foam Core Panel A SIP?

      Connections
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         What type of connections do panels have?

      Foam Properties
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
         Does the foam lose R-value over time?
         Do ICS SIPs contain Formaldehyde?
         Why is the R Vaue of Polyurethane foam higher than other types of insulation?
         Does Polyurethane Foam make a good sealant for insulation in SIPs?
         What are the benefits of closed cell foam (Polyurethane) used in SIPs?
         Can Borax used as a termite treatment be added to polyurethane foam?
         What kind of foam is used in SIPs?
         Why is the better blowing agent for polyurethane foam a 245fa Blowing Agent?
         What is a Thermal Break?
         Several contractors that have worked with SIPs recommend borax or some other termite/ant additive should be added to panel.

They said even though the foam has no food value carpenter ants love the environment, causing severe damage over time. Even with topical sprays and termite shields wouldn't it not be better to put treat the foam to help eleminate insect infestation?

Installation
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   Are building codes a problem?
   How do you wire SIP houses?
   What about plumbing?
   How do you make the openings for doors and windows?
   What is a Component Package?
   How much labor is involved in installing a SIP package?
   What are the benefits of a "SIP Kit?"
   How are electrical and plumbing installed?
   Why do SIP Buildings require Mechanical Ventilation?
   What about air Leakage in Structural Insulated Panels?
   Should you use a vapor barrier?
   If the inside of the walls are solid with foam, how do I run my electrical wiring?
   Does a house built with panels cost more than standard frame-built homes?
   How do I find a contractor that will build with panels?
   Are there any special requirements for the foundation?
   What is the best way to do the plumbing on a house with structural insulated panels?
   When building a SIP home, what are the considerations I should keep in mind when starting the foundation?

Technical Details
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   What is R-Value?

SIP Project Photos
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 

SIP Comparisons
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   Do SIPs walls cost more than frame walls?
   Stick vs. SIP at NAHB Builders' Show in Houston in 1996
   Why should I consider using polyurethane (PUR) foam rather than expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam or traditional batt or loose-fill insulation?
   Why is the R Vaue of Polyurethane foam higher than other types of insulation?
   I've heard of delamination with SIPs? Is this true?
   How is Polyurethane compared to EPS in instances of fire?
   Are R19 insulation values really R19?
   What's the Difference between a manufactured and modular home?

SIP Supply Brochures
[ All FAQ In This Category ] 
   (PUR)manite-X Metal Structural Insulated Panel
   SIP Fasteners, SIP Screws
   Log Fasteners
   (PUR)manite All Surface Panel
   SIP Terms Explained

 

 

 

 

 

Greenbuilding Resources

It's Easy Being Green: A Handbook for Earth-Friendly Living

Building with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs): Strength and Energy Efficiency Through Structural Panel Construction

 
The Renewable Energy Handbook: A Guide to Rural Energy Independence, Off-Grid and Sustainable Living

SIPFaqs.org - Frequently Asked Questions about Structural Insulated Panels, Green  and SIPs,  LEEDS and SIPS, Energy Star and SIPs, SIPs Houseplans.

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