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AP Photo/Ric Feld
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Basics of Structural Insulated Panels
Structural insulated panels are engineered walls made of a sandwich of rigid insulation (often expanded polystyrene) in the middle with a board (often OSB, or oriented strand board) on either side. The "structural" in the name is key—the panel is designed to be h2 enough to act as the complete wall without any additional structure.
Eco-factor of Structural Insulated Panels
Fabulous insulation value; you can order SIPs up to a foot thick, with insulation values up to R-60.
Pros of Structural Insulated Panels
Speed of erection and simplicity. Tremendous strength; a panel acts like an I-beam, with the insulation working as a web separating the two flanges of the board. It can withstand hurricanes.
Cons of Structural Insulated Panels
The insulation, usually expanded polystyrene, is a fossil fuel based product. Some have tried to develop SIPs with eco-friendlier insulations (Bio-SIPs) and Agriboard makes a terrific SIP out of straw. The OSB sheathing contains formaldehyde, but not much, and will outgas quickly. There are some concerns that the glue that bonds the panel together will deteriorate eventually; some builders who think really long term (like hundreds of years), like Bensonwood, use SIPs as non-structural cladding on top of a frame.
Where do I get it?
Through most of North America
How Much:
Thermapan, a big manufacturer, says SIPs could add $ 4,000 to the cost of a 1600 square foot home; would pay for itself in energy savings in less than five years.
