Structural Insulated Panel Construction

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) have a decades-long history of proven performance in the field, both as a structural solution and as a high-performance energy-efficiency solution. Typical SIP-built wall, floor, and roof assemblies have a higher R-value than conventional construction. Beyond that, the air-tightness of individual panels and properly detailed joints provides an additional performance edge, allowing panel structures to achieve a real-world energy-saving performance beyond their rated R-values. Heating and cooling equipment can and should be down-sized to match the energy-conserving capabilities of the SIP building envelope, compared with conventional construction.

The 2007 Supplement does not restrict the use of other panel types or other construction details not contained within that document. Building officials may still approve alternative materials and methods, but in that case, further documentation, testing, or the services of an engineer may be required by the building department to verify compliance with the intent of the code.

This course will introduce the viewer to the most common details used in construction of houses with Structural Insulated Panels.