Frequently asked questions about building with Structural Insulated Panels

Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions about building with SIP's. For questions not listed here, send your inquiries to: sales@portersips.com

Q: What are structural insulated panels?

A: Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) consist of a foam core of rigid insulation laminated between two sheets of 7/16" Oriented Strand Board (OSB) with an industrial adhesive to form one solid structural member. Other lamination faces are available, both structural and non structural. These SIP panel components serve as your exterior wall roof and/or floor systems to give you loading and spanning capabilities not found in ordinary construction. We can custom cut each panel to your desired house plan to insure quality and speed of construction as well as an energy efficient home that cannot be matched by fiberglass batt insulation/stick framing.

Q: How do I run electrical in an enclosed panel?

A: We supply, upon your request and discretion, horizontal wire chases located through the core of your panel at standard outlet and switch heights. Vertical chases are not made on the edges of the panel, they are cored within the panels. Wire channel cores will allow your electrician to snake wires through these channels and loop from under the floor or in your roof trusses. Our installation manual has more information and helpful tips on electrical wiring using SIPs panels.

Q: Will using SIP panels limit my home design?

A: Not at all! We manufacture PorterSIPs panels to your specifications and your home design. Panels work in conjunction with roof trusses, floor systems and any other building products used to build your home. One thing to keep in mind: when ordering your windows and doors (exterior) to fit a 4½" thick SIPs panel wall, you will require a finished window jamb of 5-1/16" after drywall is installed or to fit a 6½" thick SIPs panel wall, you will require a finished window jamb of 7-1/16" after drywall is installed. Please check with your preferred window/door supplier to see if there is any additional cost.

Q: What is the R-Value of PorterSIPs Panels?

A: A lamination of OSB/EPS/OSB: 4.5" SIPs Panels have "R" values listed in the table below. R-Value is important to the home owner and builder; it's the thermal efficiency of SIPs that bring them even further above standard construction. Thermal efficiency is also improved by the lack of moisture penetration and air leakage through the panel that really means the most to you in significant energy savings.

Copyright: 07/26/2006