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What is a Structural Insulated Panel?
It is an extremely strong, super-insulated, structural building component, used for the walls and roof.
The system consists of two engineered lumber facings adhesively laminated to expanded polystyrene
high-performance rigid insulation.
Why are they commonly referred to as SIP's?
SIP is the abbreviated term for "Structural Insulated Panel" or "Stress-Skin Insulated Panel".
What is the relationship between
Timber Frame homes and SIP's?
Structural Insulated Panels are another example of how a modern product has made a perfect mate with old-world
craftsmanship. In timber frame homes of old, the area in between the post were filled in with a variety of
materials like brick, plaster, and a plaster & stick combination called wattle & daub (wood lattice with a
straw/mud plaster mixture applied). These types of enclosures provided inadequate protection, and exposed the
timbers to the elements (moisture, insects, etc.). Eventually various types of siding were used to enclose the
timber home such board & batten, thin plank, clapboard, shingles, etc, but these homes also had a very poor
insulation value.
The advantages of building a home in SIP panels are many, but for the timber frame home they are invaluable.
By enclosing a timber frame with panels, the full beauty of the heavy timber beams, posts, knee braces, purlins,
and pegs remain exposed to the inside of your home, revealing what has been best described as "one very large
piece of furniture". Keeping the timber frame insulated and on the inside of the home prevents exposure of
the timbers to moisture and condensation, insuring your home will neither deteriorate or rot, but instead
remain beautiful, structurally sound, and energy efficient for generations to come. Additionally, a timber
frame home can be completely enclosed in just a few days, thereby reducing labor cost and allowing both the
interior and exterior construction crews to begin simultaneously.
Why should I consider using Premier SIPs
over conventional stick-built methods?
COMFORT - One of the most exciting features of a Premier Panel structure is its physical comfort.
Premier Panels create an environment that is more easily and economically controlled. Along with physical
comfort, Premier Panel structures are also very quiet, clean and super efficient.
THERMAL PERFORMANCE - Stick-built walls were originally designed to be structural, not insulated.
With structural insulated panels (SIPs), the insulation is no longer a hit-or-miss afterthought, but an
integral part of the structure. The insulation is solid, so there is no air movement within the wall; nor
are there studs acting as thermal breaks.
STRENGTH - Extensive structural testing has been completed during the code approval process.
In all test, panels proved a great deal stronger than codes required, because they create a monolithic
structure that reacts similar to a beam. Load design charts are available for engineering, along with a
video summarizing results of structural and fire testing.
QUALITY - While straight walls are virtually impossible to achieve with stick framing, panels
assure you of straight flat walls, with no bulging framing members. A continuous wood surface provides a
sound nailbase for conventional exterior and interior finishing material - no more warped studs to worry about.
SPEED OF CONSTRUCTION - With proper design, significant labor cost savings can be realized by faster
construction with pre-cut insulated panels.
For more information on Premier Panels, please visit their website at www.pbspanel.com
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Bear Creek Timberwrights, Inc.
1934 Middle Bear Creek Rd.
P.O. Box 335
Victor, MT 59875
(406) 642-6003 ..... (406) 642-6005 (fax)