Savvy Calgary Home Builders Suggest Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

Building a structurally sound, well-insulated home is always the goal of Calgary home builders. Most standard builders rely on wood-frame construction. That is not the only option, nor the best option available. Structural insulated panels, also known as SIPs, are the better choice.

What Are Structural Insulated Panels?

If you look at a structural insulated panel, you would see two large wooden sheets sandwiching a rigid foam core. The panels are normally 4 feet in width, but come in lengths between 8 and 24 feet. Builders use SIPs mainly for exterior walls, but they also do well for roofs. The insulating core adds significant structural strength to the panels that let them bear the snow loads of an Alberta winter.

You may be wondering if these panels are something new. Actually, the idea for this kind of building panels goes back to the 1930s. Builders have created using this technology ever since. Over time, manufacturers have come up with a mix of materials that create structural panels that offer optimal insulation and strength.

Calgary Home Builders Share the Benefits of SIPs

Builders and homeowners both benefit by the use of structural insulated panels.

• Less labour required - Installing SIPs requires special equipment to maneuver the materials into place. However, the number of workers necessary for installation is much less than required for normal construction.

• Versatility - These panels have shown their versatility over time. Builders can use these panels in any number of applications.

• Energy efficiency - These panels virtually eliminate drafts coming in through the wall and roof. This helps to keep the home comfortable year round. The panels also act as a vapour barrier, which helps keep moisture levels down.

• Reduced the home's life cycle costs - Time has proven that these panels stay strong for decades. They protect areas of the home without standard insulation from wide temperature variations and from moisture problems. This lessens the home's life cycle costs, especially in the long-term.

What About the Costs of Structural Insulated Panels?

A big reason structural insulated panels are becoming popular among Calgary home builders is the cost. On the surface, the structural panels themselves cost slightly more than standard building materials. However, there is less labour involved in their installation. On average a house built with SIPs costs only 1 percent more than a similar structure built using standard materials and labour. Homeowners will see enough energy savings over time to more than cover the bit of extra cost involved with using SIPs.

If you want to learn more about structural insulated panels and why they are perfect for Alberta building, contact us here at Fine Line Homes. We are proud to be a leader among Calgary home builders who specialize in building affordable, high-efficient, custom dream homes. Let's get your dream home started today.