According to SIPA, Structural Insulated Panels, commonly known as SIPs, are a high-performance building system for residential and light commercial construction. The panels consist of an insulating foam core sandwiched between two structural facings, typically oriented strand board (OSB).
SIPs are manufactured under factory-controlled conditions and are fabricated to fit nearly any building design. The result is a building system that is extremely strong, energy-efficient, and cost-effective.
SIPs’ benefits include a faster build time, remarkable strength, and optimal insulation properties.
What are Structural Insulated Panels?
Structural insulated panels consist of a foam core panel encased by structural sheathing materials with structural adhesive. SIPs are typically designed off-site and assembled on-site. They provide builders a highly effective alternative to conventional light framing and masonry. SIPs significantly speed up construction by combining structure, insulation, and air sealing in a single step, making buildings highly energy-efficient and robust.
How Are SIPs Used in Construction?
SIPs serve primarily as exterior walls and roofing in residential and smaller commercial constructions.
They replace traditional wood/metal stud, as well as masonry, construction methods, depending on the project’s requirements.
SIPs Project Spotlight: Miami University Dining Hall
Tom Moore, Principal Structural Engineer at Pinnacle Engineering, highlighted an experience designing structural insulated panels for Miami University:
Structural Insulated Panels Used for Miami University Dining Hall:
The dining hall project at Miami University is an example of practical SIP usage. The dining hall featured metal roof trusses combined with SIP roof panels. This structural engineering practice offered superior insulation compared to traditional blown-in insulation. It drastically reduced construction time and ensured structural integrity.
Tom noted the process for this project was effective due to clear communication, efficient coordination, and early involvement of the engineering team.
Maximize SIPs Construction with Effective Communication & Collaboration
Effective communication during the design process is important for maximizing the benefits of SIPs construction.
Tom notes that the early involvement of all parties, including structural engineers, contractors, and architects, is important to the success of SIPs design projects and building construction processes in general. Even brief preliminary discussions about specific building details, such as specialized framing for components or custom architectural features, can enhance project outcomes.
Tom stressed a tactical way to ensure timely communication. He often implements weekly or biweekly meetings to keep all team members aligned during the process. Even if not everyone attends every meeting, those regular check-ins make sure everyone remains informed and can promptly address any issues.
Why Choose Structural Insulated Panels ( SIPS)?
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are worth choosing because they make projects faster to build, easier to heat and cool, and stronger for the long run. Plus, they’re one of the most sustainable ways to meet today’s construction demands.
About Pinnacle Engineering
Pinnacle Engineering’s wide-ranging expertise and commitment to challenging the norm in structural engineering sets us apart. Our clients have been coming back since 1996 for a reason.
Our engineers specialize in commercial, custom residential, and specialized design projects.
If you’re interested in working with us, reach out here.
