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SIPs Code Change Lowers Hurdles on the Job Site
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The code change for structural insulated panels (SIPs) has helped make the SIPs planning permitting and processed easier for home builders. Photo provided by PATH. |
Last May, the International Code Council voted to adopt structural insulated panels (SIPs) — structural framing, insulation and exterior sheathing in a one-piece component — into the International Residential Code (IRC). With the code change, prescriptive specifications and installation details will be included in the 2007 supplement.
While SIPs construction is not difficult and can save time, many home builders have been challenged by the planning and permitting processes involved. The IRC change is already showing signs of improving the outlook of SIPs technology.
Coinciding with the code change, the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH), the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA), APA – The Engineered Wood Association and industry partners have developed step-by-step guidelines to eliminate the guesswork of SIP construction.
In addition, home builders using SIPs will no longer be required to conduct additional engineering to show equivalency to the IRC.
Recently, PATH talked with Damian Pataluna, president and owner of FischerSIPS, a SIPs manufacturer based in Louisville, Ky., about what the code change means to the industry and the benefits of building with SIPs. FischerSIPS is a PATH Manufacturer Partner and a member of NAHB’s Building Systems Councils.
PATH: What is the impact of the code change for builders and manufacturers?
Damian Pataluna: The code change is lowering the barriers to SIPs’ adoption in the field and really legitimizes the industry.
We have had 27 different manufacturers with 27 different code reports, and that created a lot of confusion in the industry until now. The code change standardizes the structural insulated panels industry and makes it much easier for engineers and architects to spec these products.
The change makes it easier for inspectors, too. They now can go right to the 2007 supplement. Builders will no longer be hearing inspectors say, “I don’t know what this is.”
PATH: Does the change account for all kinds of panels — walls, roofs and floors?
Pataluna: No, right now, the code change only covers wall panels in certain sized homes. Beyond that, individual manufacturers will have different code reports.
PATH: What advantages do SIPs offer home builders?
Pataluna: SIPs are premanufactured and prefabricated to factory specifications. All a builder has to do is assemble the panel system on the job site to quickly create entire walls, roofs and floors that are already insulated. This reduces labor costs and enhances quality control.
Builders can also be assured that they’re using a product to build their homes that’s been pretested and preengineered.
PATH: What’s the biggest barrier to home builders using SIPs?
Pataluna: The materials cost is more with SIPs construction when compared to standard construction. SIPs are manufactured using two layers of OSB, not the one layer in standard stick-frame construction. In addition, SIPs are manufactured with more costly foam insulation rather than the less expensive fiberglass insulation that builders use in standard construction.
But these are SIPs upfront costs. They are offset by reduced labor costs. If I can build my home in one-third less time, like I can with SIPs construction, how much can I save in labor?
SIP panels can be as small as 4' x 8' or as large as 8' x 24'. A wall or roof is framed, sheathed and insulated in one step. We can also pre-cut window and door openings.
If the panel is completely prepped in the factory, home builders can put them up on the job site in 10 minutes. Tell me that builders can do that with stick-frame construction.
SIP walls also are straighter, which means less work for finishers and drywallers. And since SIPs are premanufactured, there is much less drywall waste. You only have to remove one dumpster from the job sit, not two or three.
Finally, because SIPs are so energy-efficient and tight, they allow builders to downsize their HVAC by 40% to 50%. If you add everything up, the cost is going to be comparable to a stick-frame house — plus, you’ll be able to build more houses quicker.
PATH: Where would you advise a home builder who’s never used SIPs before to begin?
Pataluna: Builders who are considering using SIPs should purchase them from Structural Insulated Panel Association members because with SIPA, you know members are manufacturing in factories, not in garages.
SIPA-member panels also are engineer tested by third parties. Samples panels are examined on a monthly basis and torn apart to make sure they are able to perform the way they were designed. With SIPA members, everything is code approved and inspected.
PATH: Are SIPs more cost-effective in some areas of the country than others?
Pataluna: Yes, builders operating in areas with high labor rates will see bigger savings.
Home owners will also see bigger savings on energy in areas where the utility rates are higher.
PATH: Does a SIP house require extra ventilation?
Pataluna: SIPs houses are tighter so some type of mechanical ventilation is recommended. We recommend using efficient energy and heat recovery ventilators (ERV/HRVs). They also decrease dust and pollen in the house.
PATH: What is the market share for SIPs?
Pataluna: SIPs are still less than 1% of the total construction market. But our company is growing an average of 15% annually — close to the industry average. We were able to grow that much even during the down market last year.
PATH: Do you see any product changes on the horizon?
Pataluna: SIPs manufacturers are constantly developing new products. They are putting new skins on panels and developing panels that may be greener and more cementitious. They’re developing panels that can be used in hurricane areas that have better moisture resistance and reduce the chance of mold.
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The International Residential Code change for SIPs applies to wall panels in certain sized homes. Photo provided by PATH. |
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