PorterSIPs Structural Insulated Panels

Building with PorterSIPs presents a better way to build homes and other structures. Significant energy savings as well as faster, simpler, better-quality construction are making SIPs the preferred way to build. In the very near future, SIPs will be the norm in new construction. Below is a bit more detailed information about the specific energy-efficient characteristics of SIPs.

The foam plastic core of a SIP provides its insulating properties. The “R” values for the EPS foam is 3.85 (per inch of thickness) at 75 degrees F. and 4.13 at 40 degrees,. By adding the “R” values for the OSB skin and surface air, the total “R” values for a complete panels is shown below:

PANEL THICKNESS	PANEL “R” VALUE
4 1/2" (11.4 cm)	15.8
6 1/2" (16.5 cm)	24.7
8 1/4" (21.0 cm)	33.0
10 1/4" (26.0 cm)	42.5
12 1/8" (30.8 cm)	52.0

The “R” value for a SIP 4 1/2 inch wall is 15.8 whereas the “R” value for the fiberglass insulation for a conventional (”stick built”) 4 inch wall is only 13.8. However, the value for the conventional fiberglass insulated wall must be downgraded 15% to 18% due to the amount of framing material where there is no insulation. Moreover, when compared to stick-built structures, SIPS have fewer gaps, less settling and compression, less moisture absorption and fewer cavities that permit convection or air circulation.

Energy savings in SIP home construction have been reported by the Department of Energy to be 20% or more. Home owners of SIP houses have often found reductions in energy usage of as much as 40 to 60%.