SIPs Insulation Values

SIPs have probably the highest R value of any building material. They are an R-6 to R-7 per inch. With a 2X4 wall, that’s a R 24-32. Most stick build walls average an R-11 to R-13.

The difference is that the SIP core is entirely of foam. There is no reduction in R-value where a standard wall would have wood studs. There are no gaps, compressions or voids. The insulation is continuous. This makes for a home that is not only well insulated but is very tight.

SIP homes are so tight that it is an absolute REQUIREMENT to have fresh air ventilation. Discuss this additional cost with your HVAC contractor.

Panelized Home Kits must be insulated as a part of the building process.

Getting Approvals

Another difficulty an owner builder may encounter with SIP’s is that some municipalities still will not approve a Structural Insulated Panel home for construction. Structural insulated panels are gaining acceptance very quickly but the owner builder should definitely confirm acceptance when meeting with the local building department.

Note: SIP's recently have been accepted into the International Building Code.

It may be a challenge to find a framing contractor who has experience installing insulated panels. That won’t be an issue with a standard panelized home kit. Because the panels are simply remanufactured, stick framed, shear walls, any framing contractor will be able to build your panelized kit home.

INFORMATION ON HOME BUILDER'S NETWORK KITS.

Panelized Kits Are Easily Approved

Because a panelized home kit is stick framed, any jurisdiction in the country will approve your plans.

Both Are Customizable

Panelized home kits, whether Structural insulated or stick built shear panel, are completely customizable. The kit provider can take the owner builder’s blueprint and manufacture the walls to make the home. The factories that build the panels use exacting measurements and equipment. This ensures a tight fit and a strong home.

In addition, there are usually pre-designed floor plans from which a buyer can choose. This gives the owner builder options.

Investigate all your options before choosing. Investigate costs, time, potential benefits and difficulties. The owner builder can build a quality home from SIP’s, Panels or standard stick frame. These are 3 paths to the same goal.

Panelized Kit Home Information Pages (links)

HBN Kit Homes

Kit Home Program

Kit Home Planning

Kit Home 100% Financing

Kit Home Models East

Kit Home Models West

Kit Home Package Information Request