What are SIP’s?

Structural Insulated Panels, or SIP’s, are an advanced building material made by sandwiching a foam core of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) between two layers of Oriented Strand Board (OSB). EPS is a rigid, closed cell polymer possessing superior insulating qualities; the R-value of EPS per inch is much higher than fiberglass or cellulose insulations. OSB is a composite wood panel engineered for uniformity, strength and versatility. The EPS is welded to the OSB in a pressurized process that yields a durable, high performance building material.

Although SIP’s have been around for over 50 years, changes in building codes prompted by rising energy costs, environmental sustainability and hurricane devastation of traditionally built structures have lead to a recent surge in their popularity.

Panels manufactured by Residential Advantage Building Systems are fully customized for each project. Panel sizes, window and door openings, panel thicknesses and electrical chases are fabricated in our factory to meet the particular requirements of any given project. Typically, panels are 4 to 24 feet wide, 8 or 9 feet high and are made in thicknesses of 4½ or 6 ½ inches. Thicker panels, typically used for roofs, can also be provided to meet enhanced strength and thermal requirements.