10 Pros & Cons of SIPs in Self Build Homes - thistle architecture
10 Pros & Cons of SIPs in Self Build Homes - thistle architecture
One major question that will come up on your self build journey is - what construction method should I opt for?
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When considering different construction methods, it&#;s important to have some key considerations in mind in order to find the best method to suit your self build project. For example, ask yourself &#;What is my overall budget?&#;, &#;Is the area I&#;m looking to build in easy to access?&#;, &#;How important is energy efficiency to me?&#;. Asking these kinds of questions will help you on your way to determining which construction option is most suitable.
There are several different popular options that people tend to opt for when self building:
In this article, we are going to focus on SIPs.
What are SIPs in Self Building?
SIPs stands for Structural Insulated Panels and they are a modern construction method consisting of sandwiching a rigid foam core between sheets of OSB (oriented strand board) or some other structural facing.
The design of SIPs allows for builders and contractors to easily slot the panels together to create the building structure, and it is most commonly used for both residential and commercial construction sectors. SIPs can be used not only for walls but also roofs, floors and even exterior cladding.
When deciding on whether to choose SIPs to build your own home, it&#;s important to consider the pros and cons of this modern construction method to work out if it is going to be the best and most suitable option for your self build. We&#;ve laid out some of the core pros and cons in this article.
Pros of SIPs for Self Build Homes
1. Energy Efficient
For self builders looking to create an energy-efficient home, SIPs are an ideal choice, as they can reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions when compared to their timber frame or masonry counterparts.
This energy efficiency is achieved through the great thermal insulating properties of the materials used in SIPs construction. The rigid foam core is designed to keep homes warm in the colder months while the MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery) keeps air circulating throughout the property without losing heat. This means that in the colder months, your self build home will be easier to heat and maintain warmth indoors.
In addition, SIPs are designed to slot together to be airtight, which also poses less risk of draughts and higher levels of insulation.
2. Quick & Efficient Installation
Due to the &#;slot together&#; design of the SIP panels, this makes the building construction process a lot quicker and more straightforward when compared to other traditional construction methods. This is beneficial for self builders and it means less time is required onsite, which can save money and man hours.
There is also less waste and less risk of construction errors, due to the panels being prefabricated. SIPs are constructed offsite before the build starts, meaning that compared to other construction methods, you don&#;t need to worry about the time spent preparing materials or waiting on site deliveries quite as much.
This makes the whole building part of the process more straightforward, which can be a weight off your mind when it comes to planning a full self build construction project.
3. Eco Friendly
SIPs are very eco friendly, so offer a good environmentally conscious option for your self build home. As already mentioned, they require less construction time and offer high energy efficiency, all of which lead to a lesser consumption of gas and electricity.
In addition to this, the materials themselves that are used in SIPs construction are more eco friendly. While some timber elements are still needed for SIPs construction, this is far less when compared to general timber frame house construction. Furthermore, the exterior OSB is fabricated using material extracted from fast growing trees. As these trees grow back quickly, the impact of cutting them down is minimal. If this is a key consideration for your self build home, SIPs are a great option.
4. Strong Structural Integrity
The strength of SIPs once assembled can be up to 7 times stronger than timber frame houses, making them an extremely sturdy self build option. This means that they are very capable of withstanding extreme or harsh weather conditions.
If you are looking to self build in an area that is particularly windy, such as an area facing the sea, SIPs can be a great option.
5. Added Value for Future Buyers
In general, when reselling SIP properties, many homeowners find these go for a higher sale price. This is due to the environmental benefits of SIP homes as well as lower running costs required for services like heating.
If the overall value of your self build is a core consideration, SIPs can be a great option.
6. Flexibility & Creative Design
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SIPs are an exciting option for architects and designers as they allow a wealth of options for creative spaces. If you are looking to create a self build home with open plan vaulted ceilings or light airy spaces, SIPs are a good option. This construction method allows for a combination of materials such as brick, glass and wood, meaning you can add layers of style and uniqueness to your home.
Compared to other construction methods, SIPs are less restrictive and therefore, if you are looking for a luxury and bespoke space, SIP self builds make a fantastic choice.
Cons of SIP for Self Build Homes
7. Upfront Cost of SIPs for Self Builds
Your self build house cost is going to be a key consideration, and it is worth knowing that SIPs can be more expensive when compared to timber frame or brick and block methods. On average, SIP self build homes can cost around £1,377 per square metre, compared to timber frame at around £1,205 per square metre and masonry construction coming in at around £1,246 per square metre. You can find out more about costs in our self build costs article.
However, it is worth noting that the higher energy-efficiency and insulation that comes with SIPs can also help you save money in the long run, so it is very much dependent on what your financial priorities are at the time of self building.
8. Flexibility & Modifications
Due to the nature in which SIPs are manufactured, any modifications or extensions for self build homes can be more tricky. This is because the panels are precision engineered to fit with the exact requirements of the planned self build. More consideration is needed up front compared to other construction methods.
Therefore, if you are considering making large-scale changes to the home in the future, it&#;s worth taking into account that modifications to SIPs can be more challenging, as it can be with many other comparable construction methods. It&#;s also worth bearing this in mind when you initially build the property, as changing your mind later down the line could be costly.
9. Relatively New Construction Method
Though SIPs are arguably more straightforward to install, they are a relatively new construction method which means that installers experience and knowledge of this construction material is lesser when compared to other well established methods.
Sound knowledge of the installation of SIP is important, because if SIPs are not installed properly, water ingress and moisture problems can occur which can be problematic and expensive to recover.
10. Ventilation Considerations
The airtight nature of SIPs are fantastic when it comes to insulation, however this means that sometimes ventilation can be compromised. Depending on the construction itself, ventilation may be a problem in some SIP homes as this can cause air quality problems, condensation build up and increased humidity.
It&#;s always best to speak to an expert to understand how ventilation concerns can be addressed as part of your self build home. For example, some experts recommend using a mechanical ventilation system. However, this is again another cost consideration.
Building Self Build Homes with SIPs Panels in the UK
SIPs are becoming increasingly more popular in the UK with more self builders opting for SIPs as their chosen construction method every year. While they offer many great benefits that are perfect for some self build projects, they won&#;t be the right fit for others.
If you are looking for tailored advice on your self build home and which construction method is most suited to your project, the team at Thistle Architecture can help. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in self build architecture and the self build market, and can help you make an informed decision on your self build construction method, whether you are looking at SIPs or any other method.
Ecologic SIPs
We are partnered with Ecologic SIPs who manufacture sustainable SIP panels for all sorts of construction projects, including self build homes. Along with incollective, they will work closely with you to find the most eco-friendly, resourceful, and energy-efficient solution for your self build home, while looking to minimise their impact on the planet. If you are interested in a SIP self build, reach out to us on 175 or head over to our contact page.
Structural Insulated Panels: 11 Common Problems and a ...
Development of the first SIPs occurred in the s at the Forest Product Laboratory in Madison, Wisconsin. It was part of the United States (U.S.) Forest Service&#;s attempt to conserve forest resources. Forest Products Laboratory marketed its initial prototype design for the next thirty years. However, the design did not contain insulation, and manufacturers never produced it on a large scale.
In the s, Alden B. Dow, who was concerned about energy-efficiency and fearful over depleting natural resources, developed a structural panel with an insulated core. Many credit Dow with creating the first structural insulated panel.
During the s, more and more builders began using SIPs for their high insulative value, airtightness, and strength over wood frame construction. However, over time, architects and contractors began recognizing problems with SIPs - of concern, SIPs lack moisture&#;, fire &#;, and termite-resistance, along with design flexibility.
Modern Structural Insulated Panels
Structural insulated panels provide building panels for the walls, floors, and roofs of homes and light commercial buildings. Other names for SIPs include foam-core panels, structural foam panels, stress-skin panels, and sandwich panels.
Manufacturing of SIPs occurs under controlled conditions in a factory. Four- and eight&#;inch thick rigid foam panels, placed between two stiff sheathing materials form the SIPs. Products used to make the foam include either expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), polyurethane (PUR) or polyisocyanurate (PIR).
- Manufacturer's pressure laminates the EPS and XPS foam and sheathing together.
- Manufacturers inject and cure (under high pressure) the liquid PUR and PIR foam.
Producers of SIPs commonly use 7&#;16-inch thick oriented strand boards (OSB) for the sheathing boards. Other sheathing materials include plywood, gypsum sheathing, sheet metal, fiber-cement siding, magnesium-oxide board, fiberglass mat, and composite structural siding panels.
SIP construction produces straight walls with higher levels of insulation, airtightness, and strength compared to wood-frame construction. However, the numerous problems with SIP construction can diminish the quality of the wall system and ultimately cost both the contractor and building owner time and money.
Eleven Problems with Structural Insulated Panels
1. Costly Modifications of SIPs During Installation
Manufacturers, architects, and builders must ensure precise and accurate cutting of SIPs to prevent time-consuming and costly modifications during installation.
SIP manufacturers use computer-controlled equipment to size and cut the SIPs according to the CAD drawings. To prevent costly mistakes during SIP installation, architects and builders must plan for the electric wiring and plumbing, the doors and windows, and other architectural features. When done correctly, the process provides quality control and minimizes waste; however, any mistakes either in design or cutting of the SIPs can cost a builder both time and money.
2. Horizontal Cutting of the SIPs Diminishes Structural Performance
When installing electrical wire through SIPs, builders must hire subcontractors familiar with SIP construction. A specific problem with installing electrical wiring through a SIP wall involves the cutting of the wall. Vertical cuts in the OSB for electrical wiring don&#;t interfere with the SIP wall integrity; however, horizontal cuts significantly reduce panel strength.
3. SIPs are Heavy and Bulky
Workers can manually move and handle small SIP panels. However, wall, roof, or floor panels, bigger than eight by eight feet, require a crane or forklift.
4. Limited Design Options with SIP Walls
To reduce cost and waste, architects should design panel-size friendly SIP walls without excessive jogs, bump-outs, or non-90 degree angles. A non-panel friendly design can escalate costs, increase waste, and in some cases, diminish the performance of the building or home. Overall, boxy shaped SIP homes and buildings are easier and less expensive to build than structures with unique curves and angles.
5. Problems with Fire Safety and Structural Insulated Panels
SIPs constructed with OSB, composite structural siding panels, and plywood, do not have adequate fire performance ratings. Only SIPs surrounded by a fire-rated product, like drywall, can stand up well in fires. If the drywall surrounding the SIPs is faulty, it can put the occupants at a higher risk of smoke inhalation and burns.
6. Problems with Air Quality and Structural Insulated Panels
When exposed to moisture, SIPs panels with OSB or plywood facings may form unhealthy mold that can diminish the air quality of a home or building.
7. Insects, Termites, and Rodent, Problems of Structural Insulated Panels
Pests, like insects, termites, and rodents, present another problem with SIPs because the foam used to make SIPs provides an ideal nesting material for the pests.
Manufacturers suggest applying an insecticide, like boric acid to the panels to curtail pests. Also, building owners can combat pest infestation by maintaining a relative humidity below 50 percent. SIPs with OSB and plywood facing require termite treatments.
8. Durability Issues with Structural Insulated Panels
SIP walls, particularly those made with OSB and plywood, lack durability because when the OSB or plywood gets wet, the walls can deteriorate and rot.
9. Structural Insulated Panels Lack Sufficient Thermal Mass
While SIPs have a high insulation rating, they have low thermal mass compared to insulated concrete products, like Fox Blocks ICFs. High thermal mass in a wall system helps to stabilize the temperature within a structure, which decreases energy use and saves money.
10. Ventilation Concerns and Structural Insulated Panels
Structural insulated panels create airtight buildings and homes. Unfortunately, airtight structures may allow for a build-up of fumes from radon, formaldehyde, combustion appliances, and pollutants such as tobacco smoke and excess humidity. Therefore, SIPs builders need an excellent ventilation system to ensure the health and safety of the occupants. A lack of proper ventilation in SIPs structures will negate the primary benefits of SIP construction.
11. Structural Insulated Panels Cost More Than Stick Built Construction
Framing a small scale residential house with SIPs costs approximately 10 percent more than wood framing, according to a study by the University of Colorado Departments of Environmental Design And Economics.
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