Friday, May 19, 2017

What You Need To Know About SIPS Vs Stick Frame

By Amy Fox


Generally, achieving a cost-effective way of constructing buildings both for commercial and residential purposes is a key objective pursued by real-estate investors. Nevertheless, this can only be carried out effectively by comparing the various materials available for use. One perfect example can be the SIPS Vs Stick Frame normally used in constructing residential or light commercial buildings.

SIPS or the structural insulated panels are a type of high-performance construction materials that are used to construct residential and light commercial structures. These panels are usually made from insulating forms that are centrally sandwiched into two structural faces known as OSB or oriented strand boards. However, the stick framing or stick built homes are the wooden houses often constructed either partly or wholly on-site. Generally, this building technique allow houses to be constructed and occupied upon construction.

Contemporary structural integrated panels have been around for some time now. These materials are a bit costly to purchase. Nevertheless, they usually have the added advantage of ease and efficiency, of installation. This actually lessens the duration and the cost spent in order to complete a building. Additionally, structurally integrated panels aid in developing structures with superior strengths that feature good racking resistance.

These panels also come with cores having polystyrene insulations that allow for some good R-value with every inch, unlike cellulose or fiberglass insulations. Ideally, the enhanced R-value again means a low infiltration levels. This basically offers energy efficiency through cutting down the energy expenditures during the periods that they are used.

On the other hand, the SIPs possess certain disadvantages such as most builders finding them intimidating as well as unfamiliar. Actually, these construction materials normally require special tools and even cranes during installation. Additionally, a thorough project planning together with sufficient run-up time is always essential when in order to accommodate the particular engineering used, manufacturing, shipping as well as code approvals.

However, stick framings have also been used for over a century and are usually considered as one of the old construction method. Because of this, most experienced contractors have an idea of using these materials. Generally, these materials are usually easily available and are fairly priced. Additionally, they allow for changes to be made during construction even when the construction work has begun. The wooden frames also exist in different sizes and they accommodate doors and windows placed on top, thereby allowing flexibility during design.

Usually, there are no engineering and ordinary code approvals required. However, relying on these construction materials have some challenges as well. For example, different steps are needed such as cutting, measuring, nailing, and fitting each stick which are time-consuming. Also, using stick frames is also prone to mistakes and material wastage that come at a cost.

The other disadvantage is the difficulties of sealing to achieve effectively insulation. As a result, there are lots of infiltration or air. This often results in moisture problems that leaves the material vulnerable to attacks by insects, as well as rotting. Additionally, spray foam may aid in sealing and boosting of its R-value even though this may never guarantee airtightness and insulation that will also decreases with time.




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