What are structural insulated panels and why should I build with them?
Structural insulated panels or SIPs are 4′ x 8′ panels engineered of EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam insulation compressed between exterior and interior substrates. SIPs are used for walls, roofs and foundation walls. SIPs are one-step construction that takes the place of perimeter stud framing, exterior and interior substrate application, and installing insulation. This saves labor costs and doesn’t require skilled laborers to do the work. A 1,500 square foot SIP home can be completed to the dried-in stage in as little as 3-4 days, not the weeks it can take stick frame construction. Another construction saving advantage of SIPs is an exterior facing, like wood or siding can be applied at the factory, so all you have to do is stain or paint, and seal. Interior facings like sheetrock or wood paneling can also be preapplied. You’ll just need to mud and finish the sheetrock, and stain or paint your paneling. Saves you the hassle of application, clean up and disposal. When it comes to ener
