Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are rigid foam insulation sandwiched between oriented strand board (OSB). These panels can be used as wall, roof & floor components & have been proven to be structurally sound, energy efficient & fire resistant. The solid foam core of the SIP panels allow for significantly less leakage & drafts while the built-in wire chases do not interfere with the structure's electrical systems. Read more about these versatile building products:

Structural Integrity
SIPs are a structural composite, with the three components (outer OSB, foam core& inner OSB) working together instead of against each other for optimal strength.

Energy Efficiency
Rigid insulation (the foam core) allows for less air movement, which means fewer leaks & drafts. The structure retains the heat (or cool) & the HVAC system does not have to work as hard for the same indoor climate. This translates to lower energy bills & less use of non-renewable fossil fuels. Your HVAC contractor can confer with the panel manufacturer to provide the best possible heating & cooling system for an advanced building structure with SIP panels. The use of new-tech Structural Insulated Panel products & construction practices can cut heating & cooling energy demands by 50 to 75 percent over standard conventional building techniques.

Fire Resistance
The solid core of the SIP panel has no air, depriving a fire of the oxygen it needs to burn. A fire will not spread through a SIP wall, floor or roof as it would with insulation made of fiberglass, a material used for furnace filters because air moves through it so freely.

Wiring
Chases (like small tunnels) are built into the foam core of the panels where electrical components need to be installed. (Generally, plumbing is not installed in exterior walls, but plumbing access & vents can be incorporated as well). Your electrical contractor can consult the panel installer on methods & procedures to install your systems with the utmost efficiency.

Other Benefits
In addition to the structural, energy & fire benefits SIPs offer your structure, SIP users enjoy a reduction in outside noise. Structural Insulated Panel systems also allow for more of the frame to be seen from the inside of the timber framed home. Decking & drywall can be applied directly to the panels by the manufacturer, eliminating this step on the job site. Installation of the panels is faster because they are pre-engineered & cut at the factory.

HYBRID DESIGNS

We define a "Hybrid" structure to be a building that is partially timber frame & partially SIP ONLY exterior construction. As a building component, the SIP can also actually replace traditional stick framed wall & roof areas.

A Structural Insulated Panel is comparable to a steel I-beam with regards to strength properties. The foam core of the panel acts as a web & the two outside skins function as a flange. The result is a solid building component that measures from two to ten times the strength of it's conventional stick counterparts. This strength actually provides an increased dimension of design flexibility & is very economical to use.