SIPs or Structural Insulated Panels are becoming more and more popular in home construction. SIPs are made of two structural skins over an insulating structural core (usually expanded polystyrene--EPS). They're built in a factory and shipped to the construction site where the crew can quickly attach them to a house's framework. This can make building a home less expensive than with traditional stick-built methods, and it can also give you higher quality since everything is handled in a factory instead of on the job site. Here's a closer look at the pros and cons of SIPs:
Pros
- Since SIPs arrive to the construction site already built, building time is greatly reduced.
- SIPs are naturally resistant to mold and mildew.
- They are strong enough to resist wind, snow, and earthquakes.
- They have a high R-rating, which reduces the homeowner's energy costs.
- They're well insulated and reduce the amount of outside noise that gets inside.
- SIPs can be built to exact specifications.
- They don't warp or lose their shapes over time.
Cons
- After the panels are constructed, it's hard to make changes.
- It's hard to change wiring after the home construction is complete.
- If the factory is far away, SIPs may be costly to ship.