When to use SIPs

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Are Structural Insulated Panels Right For You?

Structural Insulated Panels—also known as SIPs—are high-performance building panels that consist of two sheets of OSB and a layer of rigid expanded polystyrene or extruded polystyrene foam insulation in between. Trying to decide if using SIPs are right for your project? Let us help you with your decision.

Structural Insulated Panels for your walls, roof & floor

We believe SIPs are the superior material for building and think everyone should use them. But are SIPs right for your project? If you want the cheapest building material, SIPs are probably not the right choice. However, if you are willing to invest a little more now to build a higher quality structure for the future that provide benefits for decades, then yes is your answer. The check-off list below will help you with your decision.

Choose SIPs if:

Build with SIPs
Stick with Sticks

Build a Better Building

Type of Builder

  • Custom Builder
  • Emphasis on Quality & Performance
  • Timber Framer

Building Standard

  • IRC/IBC 2015 or later
  • High Performance
  • Net Zero
  • PassiveHaus
  • Energy Star
  • Leed
  • EarthCraft

Structural Evaluations

  • Building in high wind zones
  • Vaulted ceilings
  • Fewer trusses

Financial Profile

  • Likes to invest smart.  Looking to Invest a little more for long term performance
  • Excellent rate of returns
  • Wants higher air and living quality

Environmental profile

  • Feels strongly about the environment
  • Wants choices to contribute to less emissions as a solution for global warming

Build a cheaper building

Type of Builder

  • Production Builder
  • Emphasis on low price
  • Most house for least money

Building Standard

  • IRC/IBC 2012 or earlier
  • Speculation
  • Code Minimum
  • Least expensive
  • Large development
  • Largest house for least money

Structural Evaluations

  • Low regulations
  • No wind requirements
  • No need for insulation

Financial Profile

  • Lowest upfront cost
  • Cheapest build
  • Views building as just a cost
  • Looking for a quick sale

Environmental profile

  • Not particularly concerned about environmental impact of building
  • Doesn’t believe in global warming

Compare SIPs with conventional framing.