designing with structural insulated panels - advanced
DESCRIPTION
DESIGNING WITH STRUCTURALINSULATED PANELS - ADVANCEDTRANSCRIPT
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DESIGNING WITH STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANELS - ADVANCED
Credit: 1 AIA HSW/SD CE Hour
P.O. Box 1699
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
253-858-7472
www.sips.org
GreenCE, Inc. 2012
course number: gsi06a
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An American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program
Approved Promotional Statement:
GreenCE, Inc. is a registered provider with The American Institute of
Architects Continuing Education System. Credit earned upon completion of
this program will be reported to CES Records for AIA members.
Certificates of Completion are available for all course participants upon
completion of the course conclusion quiz with +80%.
This program is registered with the AIA/CES for continuing professional
education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or
construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA or GreenCE, Inc. of
any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using,
distributing, or dealing in any material or product.
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An American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program
Course Format: This is a structured, web-based course with a final exam.
Course Credit: 1 AIA Health Safety & Welfare (HSW), Sustainable Design
(SD) CE Hour
Completion Certificate: A copy is sent to you by email or you can print one
upon successful completion of a course. If you have any difficulties printing
or receiving by email please send requests to [email protected]
Design professionals, please remember to print or save your certificate of
completion after successfully completing a course conclusion quiz. Email
confirmations will be sent to the email address you have provided in your
GreenCE.com account.
Please note: you will need to complete the conclusion
quiz online at greence.com to receive credit
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Course Description
This one-hour online course will discuss the benefits of designing with structural
insulated panels (SIPs) including energy optimization and other sustainable
contributions. The designer will gain a better understanding of advanced
application, assembly and detailing in order to properly utilize SIPs.
SIP basics
Engineering methods
Advanced structural applications
Sound and fire ratings
2012 energy code with SIPs
Non-residential applications of SIPs
Thermal characteristics of SIPs
Climate specific issues and design
SIPs and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
Construction methods and
specifications
Note: This course was created as an advanced offering based on the introductory version
available for free at: Designing With Structural Insulated Panels
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Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, the design professional will be able to:
Discuss the basics of structural insulated panels (SIPs) in terms of composition,
engineering methods, and codes and standards and how this contributes
toward a more sustainable design
Identify energy-efficient characteristics of SIPs and how this contributes to
improved energy efficiency of the building
Describe the waste reducing and product life cycle benefits of building with
SIPs as compared to traditional wood framing
Explain how SIPs contribute to better indoor environmental quality through a
reduction in both air infiltration and interior off-gassing
Discuss the advanced technical requirements and design applications of SIPs
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SIP Basics
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What Are SIPs?
Animation available in online format only
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What Are SIPs?
SIP = Structural Insulated Panel
A composite structural panel
Rigid foam core - EPS, XPS, or polyurethane
Structural facings - usually 7/16 OSB
Structural adhesive
Metal skin SIPs and cement board SIPs are available
OSB has comprehensive engineering data available but consult your
manufacturer if desiring to use other facing materials as they may have
limited structural capacities
Other skin materials are being considered and tested which would give SIPs
more versatility
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Details
Many kinds of splines can be used including I-joists, surface splines,
2x lumber, block splines (often called a mini SIP)
A spline is the vertical connection component between two SIPs
Insulation is cut back from the edge of OSB SIP to receive spline member
Be aware that the type of spline you are using may cause some thermal
bridging
The overall panel will have a reduced framing factor compared to stick
framing
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Details
Panel joints are designed to
reduce thermal bridging where
structurally possible and sealed
to reduce air infiltration.
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Details
This is a plan view detail at wall corner showing how SIP screws are utilized
SIP screws go through the panels, into structure
Wood screw point for wood
Light drill point for metal/light gauge
Heavy drill point for steel/iron up to thick
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Engineering Methods
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International Residential Code (IRC)
The 2007 supplement to the 2006 IRC first accepted SIPs with EPS and XPS
foam (walls)
The 2009 IRC also accepted SIPs with polyurethane foam (walls)
Consult structural engineer to optimize design even if using IRC
This was just the first step in getting SIPs more widely recognized and
accepted
IRC Section R614 offers a prescriptive design for SIP walls
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International Residential Code (IRC)
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Engineering
A structural engineer with knowledge of SIP applications should be a part
of the design process for any SIP structure to prevent the overdesign of the
structural system, reduce costs, and meet code minimums
Consult manufacturer code report and load charts for engineering
information
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Axial Loads
Sample manufacturer load chart from code report
Loads are calculated per Chapter 16 of the IBC
Axial loads help with determining wall thicknesses
Consult your engineer or manufacturer about values for thicker wall sizes
than 8- for walls
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Transverse Loads
Transverse loads are for walls and roofs. This will help with spans and
spacing for your structure.
Load charts vary by spline type and load type
Below is a block spline and surface spline chart
Other spline types include
I-joist, LVL, and 2x lumber
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Shear Wall Components
Total shear wall assembly:
SIPs and splines
Edge members
Plates and end studs
Shear wall connectors
Nails and screws
Hold down anchors and
anchor bolts
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Shear Wall Strap Diagrams
Hold down anchors at the ends of shear walls
Shear plate anchor bolts must resist shear load
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Diaphragm Connections
Shear wall values are
available to cover all seismic
design categories
Diaphragm values for wind
design for SIP roof panels
should be available from the
manufacturer
Like all shear walls and
diaphragms, chord forces are
critical. Straps and fasteners
can help transfer these forces
across joints in the edge
lumber.
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Openings
Openings with heavy loads may require
additional structural header
Some openings possible with SIP acting as
header
Consult engineer or manufacturer
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Ratings
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R-Values
The following chart illustrates an official study on R-values. The calculated
R-values are for the SIPs themselves but not with other interior or exterior
materials, or air films considered.
For polyurethane panels, please consult your manufacturer as values may
vary
Polyurethane R-values, although greater than EPS and XPS, depreciate over
time so that should be taken into consideration
When comparing these values to other building technologies and systems,
take into account air infiltration and thermal bridging/framing factors for
total energy savings
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R-Values
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Fire Ratings
Rated assemblies are available for SIPs
Remember to consider the assembly as a whole, not just the parts
Insulation or wood, although flammable, can be a part of a rated assembly
that has the necessary values for your design requirements
While limited in terms of construction type due to wood span, rated SIP
assemblies are available to meet code
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Fire Rated Assembly
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Fire Rated Assembly
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STC Rated Assemblies: Single Walls
STC rated wall assemblies for SIPs have been tested and are similar to stud
framing systems in terms of values. SIP walls perform very well with high
frequency or low energy noises. SIPs do not block low frequency noises such as
bass or contact noises as effectively. The air tight quality of SIPs also
contributes to the reduction of noise. SIP buildings constructed next to airports
or military bases have received positive feedback from building occupants.
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STC Rated Assemblies: Single Walls
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STC Rated Assemblies: Single Walls
STC-22
SIP (no finish on either face)
STC-28
1/2 gyp, SIP (no finish on either face)
STC-29
5/8 gyp, SIP (no finish on either face)
STC-33
5/8 gyp, SIP, 5/8 gyp
STC-41
2-layers 5/8 gyp, SIP, 2-layers 5/8 gyp
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STC Rated Assemblies: Double Walls
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STC Rated Assemblies: Double Walls
STC-45 5/8 gyp, SIP, 5/8 gyp, 1 air space, 5/8 gyp, SIP, 5/8 gyp
STC-47 (2) layers 5/8 gyp, SIP, 5/8 gyp, 1 air space, 5/8 gyp, SIP, 5/8 gyp
STC-52 (2) layers 5/8 gyp, SIP, 5/8 gyp, 1 air space, 5/8 gyp, SIP, (2) layers 5/8 gyp
STC-54 (2) layers 5/8 gyp, SIP, (2) layers 5/8 gyp, 1 air space, 5/8 gyp, SIP, (2) layers 5/8 gyp
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SIP Hybrid Systems
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Hybrid Structural SIP Systems
Beyond combining SIPs with wood framing, other structural systems can be
combined with SIPs to increase heights and spans in a building:
Metal framing
Structural steel
Pre-engineered buildings
Timber framing
Glulams
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SIPs with Metal Framing
6-" Wall Panels, 10-" Roof Panels, Structural steel beams 18' apart
SIPs span from beam to beam and have structural I-beam splines 4 OC
The run from the ridge to outside wall is 36'
Architect: Kideney Architects - Buffalo, New York
Installer: Boxhorn Construction - Depew, New York
Buffalo University Day Care
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Bar Joists and Structural Steel with SIPs
Walls - Mostly 6- (some 8-)
Roof 10-
Silvis Middle School - District No. 34
Architect: BLDD Architects - Bloomington, IL
Installer: Estes Construction Davenport, IA
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Pre-engineered Building with SIPs
SIP manufacturing plant in Minnesota
Dramatically lower heating bill than
other similar buildings
6 panel is being placed on top of
this (picture on the right)
The roof is a 10 panel
Use of SIPs dramatically reduces the
need for cross bracing and portal
frames in the walls and roof
Reducing the amount of steel saves
money on SIPs projects
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SIPs with Timber Framing
SIPs and timber frames work well together creating beautiful structures that are
relatively simple to build, utilizing large members for SIP screws to easily attach.
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SIPs with Glulams
Silverwood Park Visitor Center
Minneapolis, MN
SIP roof and wall
Ground source heat pump for heating
and cooling
Architect: Miller Dunwiddle Architecture
$5.3 Million budget
SIPs were prefabricated to be attached
directly to the structure which saved time
and money
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Curved SIPs
While not readily available, curved SIPs can be manufactured by some
manufacturers
May be 2 to 3 times more expensive
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Energy and SIPs
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2012 Energy Code
The cost of energy inefficient design is substantial - contributing to high energy
bills as well as harmful impacts on the environment. SIPs meet the 2012 energy
code, providing greater R-value and reduced air infiltration.
New requirements of the energy code
2012 IECC 13% more efficient than 2009 and 30% more efficient than
2006 IECC
Greater insulation and air infiltration requirements
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IEEC Climate Zones
Insulation requirements determined by climate zone
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2012 IECC: Commercial R-values
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2012 IECC and SIPs
SIP Size R-Value Zone
4.5 R-14 ci Walls: 1-6 Floor: 2-6 Roofs: n/a
6.5 R-21 ci Walls: 6-7 Floor: 7-8 Roofs: 1-3
8.25 R-28 ci Walls: 8 Floor: n/a Roofs: 4-5
10.25 R-35 ci Walls: n/a Floor: n/a Roofs: 6-8
12.25 R-42 ci Walls: n/a Floor: n/a Roofs: 7-8
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Oak Ridge National Laboratory Study
When comparing stick framing with SIPs it is important to look at the whole
wall R-value. An R-19 stud wall is not equivalent to a SIP with the same R-
value. The framing factor of a stud wall is much greater. The studs actually
reduce the overall walls R-value.
Study results for SIPs:
Continuous insulation
No thermal bridging
4 SIP wall outperforms
2x6 stud wall with
R-19 fiberglass
Whole wall R-value for a
6 SIP = 21.6
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Thermal Bridging
This thermal image illustrates the impact of stick frame construction and
thermal bridging. There is reduced thermal bridging with SIPs. Continuous
insulation allows for higher whole wall R-values.
SIP Stick Framing
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COMcheck and REScheck
Energy modeling software may be required by many jurisdictions to show
energy code compliance
COMcheck requires manual input for continuous insulation - no SIP category
SIPs are included in the assembly categories for REScheck
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Air Infiltration
Air infiltration testing is part of
performance calculations
Responsible for 30 50% of
heating and cooling loss
2012 IECC blower test is required
for the first time
Continuous insulation required for
certain climate zones
Reducing air infiltration has a
dramatic impact on energy
savings
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Air Infiltration and SIPs
SIP buildings are inherently tighter because there are fewer gaps to seal. The
pre-manufactured nature of SIPs makes it possible for very tight connections. If
tape and adhesive or spray foam is used, as advised by the manufacturer to
seal all joints properly, excellent blower door test scores can be achieved. This
contributes to energy savings in addition to high insulating values.
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Oak Ridge National Laboratory Study
The stick frame comparison test was done without drywall or house wrap. The
results would be less drastic when comparing a SIP house versus a wood frame
house.
Fewer gaps to seal
SIP test room eliminated
more than 90% of the
air infiltration allowed
by the stick built test room
50-70% annual savings over
Model Energy Code
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SIP Sealing
To attain full airtightness with SIPs:
Seal joints, openings, and
penetrations with tape and mastic
per manufacturer requirements
Sprayfoam may be used to seal
joints per the manufacturer
Tape location varies with climate;
the tape is on the warm side to
prevent air and moisture infiltration
into the assembly
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Sustainability and SIPs
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Architecture 2030
Buildings are the major source of global demand for energy and materials
that produce by-product greenhouse gases (GHG). Slowing the growth rate of
GHG emissions and then reversing it is the key to addressing climate change
and keeping global average temperature below 2C above pre-industrial
levels.
source: http://architecture2030.org/2030_challenge/the_2030_challenge
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The 2030 Challenge
To accomplish this, Architecture 2030 issued The 2030 Challenge asking the
global architecture and building community to adopt the following targets:
All new buildings, developments and major renovations shall be designed to
meet a fossil fuel, GHG-emitting, energy consumption performance
standard of 60% below the regional (or country) average for that building
type
At a minimum, an equal amount of existing building area shall be
renovated annually to meet a fossil fuel, GHG-emitting, energy consumption
performance standard of 60% of the regional (or country) average for that
building type
source: http://architecture2030.org/2030_challenge/the_2030_challenge
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The 2030 Challenge
The fossil fuel reduction standard for all new buildings and major
renovations shall be increased to:
70% in 2015
80% in 2020
90% in 2025
Carbon-neutral in 2030 (using no fossil fuel GHG emitting energy to operate)
These targets may be accomplished by implementing innovative sustainable
design strategies, generating onsite renewable power and/or purchasing
(20% maximum) renewable energy
Insulation and air infiltration play a critical role in the efficiency of any
structure. SIPs contribute to this energy savings and resulting CO2 reduction.
source: http://architecture2030.org/2030_challenge/the_2030_challenge
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EPS Molders Assoc. Life Cycle Analysis
EPS Industry Alliance: This comparative study conducted by the EPS Industry
Alliance shows that the energy invested in the production of SIPs yields an
exponential benefit to the environment compared to traditional wood framing
5.1 year energy payback (avg. zones 1-5)
3.8 years recapture of greenhouse gas emissions (avg. zones 1-5)
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EPS Molders Assoc. Life Cycle Analysis
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Life Cycle Study
BASF Residential Insulation Systems Eco-Efficiency Analysis: this award-winning
Eco-Efficiency Analysis assesses the complete environmental impact of several
residential wall systems, including SIPs, 24 construction and 26 construction.
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), provide environmental and cost benefits
thanks to reducing heating and cooling loads over the lifetime of the home.
The lifetime energy savings outweigh the higher installed costs of these
systems for the base case analyzed in this study.
SIPs are consistently the most eco-efficient technology. In addition to
providing energy efficiency benefits, SIP component materials have low
environmental impact.
Residential Insulation Studies; Charlene Wall, NT/U, BASF Corporation; June 2006
System SIP Hybrid 2x4 stick 2x6 stick
Energy Consumption* 60,306 112,000 1,758,671 1,513,724
*MJ/CB Over period of study
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Thermal Characteristics
Cavity walls with code enforced
high performance increase the
possibility of pumping water
vapor into cavities which can
cause mold, rot, and mildew.
SIPs eliminate this problem by
having no cavity space. This is
especially true for cold weather
climates.
A more consistent, symmetric R-value
The more framing you have, the
more inconsistent the R-Value
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Climate Specific Design
Prevent the intrusion and
entrapment of moisture in cold
and/or wet climates
For maximum durability, design
with drainage planes and roof
vents for all cold climates and
where there is more than 20
inches of rain per year
Three types of water intrusion
Bulk Water
Air Infiltration
Vapor Drive
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Climate Specific Design
Special consideration should be made for designing with SIPs in cold and/or
wet climates to prevent decay and mold growth, which can impact durability
and indoor air quality.
With water intrusion: bulk water is liquid moisture from the outside coming in,
such as wind driven rain
Drying of the exterior envelope is a universal issue for all building types
including SIPs
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Climate Specific Design
Be aware of the climate you are building in to determine the need for
drainage at the exterior envelope
If required, create a drainage plain or rain screen to allow for the drying
of SIPs at the exterior and prevent the trapping of moisture
A variety of drainage techniques may be used including a drainage mat or
furring strips
This is a building science opinion for maximum durability; not SIP specific
Discuss with your SIP manufacturer and be aware of all system
requirements
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Climate Specific Design
Roofing paper at roof is
acceptable for some drier
climates in the continental US
Cold/wet weather climates should
have vented roofs
Flat or low slope roofs should not
have TPO applied directly to
OSB
Standing seam metal roofs may
not need venting because of
airflow between flutes
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Indoor Air Quality With SIPs
Off-gassing of harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde to the indoor
environment can cause health issues and discomfort for building occupants
OSB is manufactured with a phenolic resin that has negligible quantities of
formaldehyde
plywood and OSB manufactured to US product Standards PS 1 and PS
2 have such low emission levels that they are exempt from the leading
formaldehyde emissions standards and regulations. (APA)
OSB meets the standards of the following regulators
U.S. HUD Manufactured Housing Standard
California Air Resources Board (CARB) Air Toxic Control Measure for
Composite Wood Products
Japanese Agriculture Standards
EN 300 standards (Europe)
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Construction Methods and Specifications
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Design Coordination
Coordination with the design team is essential before the actual manufacturing
of SIPs.
HVAC
HVAC planning is critical - design first
Vent and duct routes, sizes, locations - sealed ducts!
Mechanical ventilation required
Sealed combustion recommended
Designed supply air also an option
Properly designed and sized HVAC equipment will run longer and be more
efficient - no short cycling
Longer equipment life
Better indoor air quality
Relative humidity control will also provide a higher level of health and
comfort while extending HVAC equipment life
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Design Coordination
Coordination with the design team is essential before the actual manufacturing
of SIPs.
Window and door openings
Electrical
Chases in SIP walls or furred walls to run electrical wiring
Structural system
Coordinate steel and concrete carefully
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Electrical
As an option, SIPs can have 1 to 1- diameter electrical chases
Chases run horizontally at switch and outlet heights
Chases run vertically at 4-0 OC, typical
Top and bottom plates are drilled during installation to access the vertical
electrical chases
Other options include running electrical wires through a furred wall or base
board
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Electrical
Wiring walls with SIPs can actually be a time saver but may require
education of the electrician
Chases in SIPs walls are not standard among manufacturers
Consult your manufacturer for additional costs to add chases
Chases can be added on site or included during manufacturing
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Specifications
Standard specifications are available from manufacturers which can be
updated to respond to the project and regional context such as climate.
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Specifications
Quality assurance in your specification is important
Specify the SIP designer and installer experience requirements
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Construction Benefits
There are many examples of a four-man crew raising the walls of a 4,000
sq. ft. home in a single day
SIPs come in large sections, up to 8 x 24, so whole walls can be raised
quickly and easily
They are structurally sufficient, so little additional framing is required
Windows are usually cut during the offsite fabrication process and can be
headerless, depending on the size
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Construction Benefits
Because SIPs are manufactured under factory controlled conditions, they
are always perfectly straight and true, providing a uniform nailing surface
for interior and exterior trim and finishes
Electrical chases can be cut into the foam cores at the factory, eliminating
the need to drill studs for wiring
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Commercial Applications
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Commercial Applications
Although SIPs are known for their use in single family housing construction, SIPs
can also be used for non-residential and multifamily applications with high
performance and high value.
Schools
Retail/office
Civic buildings
Medical buildings
Warehouses
Retirement communities
Multifamily housing
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Jacob E. Manch Elementary School Las Vegas, NV
Architect: SSA Architecture
70,000 sq. ft. designed for 900 students
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Jacob E. Manch Elementary School Las Vegas, NV
SIP benefits
Saved approximately one million
dollars in direct construction costs
Reduced the framing schedule from
118-220 days to 45 days
Reduced HVAC requirements by
approximately half, providing both
initial capital savings and lower annual
heating and cooling bills
Decreased construction materials waste
and resulting disposal fees and
environmental impacts
Reduced interior noise coming from
nearby Nellis Air Force Base
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Senior Living at Mahtomedi Mahtomedi, MN
Mahtomedi is a suburb of Minneapolis
The project is an assisted living facility
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Senior Living at Mahtomedi Mahtomedi, MN
3 stories all SIP construction
There were 48 rooms in project
Average HERS score of the rooms was 46
30% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
Calculated 30% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
Provided drastically reduced heating bills for the building owner through
the winter months
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Finn Hill Junior High School Kirkland, WA
SIPs will help the school district reduce energy costs and allows for a
smaller more cost-effective mechanical system
School designed by Mahlum Architects includes 6 SIP walls and 10 SIP
roof designed to be 47% more energy-efficient than baseline target
SIPs reduced labor cost enough to make it possible to purchase a
photovoltaic system within budget
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Finn Hill Junior High School Kirkland, WA
Reducing the heating and cooling consumption was critical for the buildings
net zero energy ready design. This means that the potential of the roof-
mounted solar panels is sufficient to meet all of the school power needs for a
net annual basis. The school currently has one of the largest solar panel
installations in the state of Washington.
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Aeon Alliance Expansion Minneapolis, MN
Architect: Cermak Rhoades Architects
6 SIP walls
LEED Platinum Certification
Four-story wood structure
Affordable housing
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Bend Parks and Recreation Bend, OR
SIPs on top of Glulams
LEED Gold Certification
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Bend Parks and Recreation Bend, OR
10 SIP green roof
SIPs make an excellent structural accommodation to a green roof
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Course Summary
Now, the design professional will be able to:
Discuss the basics of structural insulated panels (SIPs) in terms of composition,
engineering methods, and codes and standards and how this contributes
toward a more sustainable design
Identify energy-efficient characteristics of SIPs and how this contributes to
improved energy efficiency of the building
Describe the waste reducing and product life cycle benefits of building with
SIPs as compared to traditional wood framing
Explain how SIPs contribute to better indoor environmental quality through a
reduction in both air infiltration and interior off-gassing
Discuss the advanced technical requirements and design applications of SIPs
-
DESIGNING WITH STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANELS - ADVANCED
Credit: 1 AIA HSW/SD CE Hour
P.O. Box 1699
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
253-858-7472
www.sips.org
GreenCE, Inc. 2012
course number: gsi06a