SIP v. Conventional Stick Framing Methods

Structural Insulated Panel Comparison with Frame Construction

Panels are shipped to the job site for assembly when the foundation and deck are in place. Ideally,  panels are off loaded and stacked in the exact reverse order needed, so that no sorting or shuffling is required. After the bottom plate is attached to the perimeter placement of the wall panels begins. Usually light enough to be carried and set by hand, the four-foot sections allow exterior walls for most houses to be erected in less than a day.

Some trades may find their work made simpler by SIP construction. For instance, drywall and siding installers need not worry about locating studs. Others, such as electricians, may need to make special accommodations. When using a Greenix Magnesium Board SIP, there is no need for interior drywall application, and exterior finishes can be applied directly to the surface. Greenix Panels include conduit and electrical boxes. Generally, best practices for plumbing design route pipes through interior walls, but if placement of pipes in SIPs panels is necessary, significant routing and foaming may be required.

Strength

Structural testing and real world storms and earthquakes have challenged Structural Insulated Panel strength performance. In tests of strength, Structural Insulated Panels have proven stronger than stick framed construction methods.

Quality

Structural Insulated Panels assure you of straight, flat walls with no bulging framing members. Straight walls are virtually impossible to achieve with stick framing. Attraction of dirt particles to thermal shorts caused by framing members is eliminated. A continuous wood surface provides a sound nailbase for conventional exterior finishing materials. This is also an advantage for interior finishing, as well as hanging cabinets and pictures.

Speed of Construction

SIPs are a faster method of construction. Many SIP contractor users report 30% to 50% increased productivity in their framing.