Saturday, May 20, 2017

Important Comparison On SIPS Vs Stick Frame

By Amy Fox


Basically, to achieve an effective cost of constructing a building, whether for commercial or residential reasons is usually an important objective pursued by the real-estate investors. However, this may only be effectively performed by comparing the different materials available. A perfect example is by comparing SIPS Vs Stick Frame that are used in building residential and 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.

Conventional structurally integrated panels have been in existence for quite some time. The materials general costs more to purchase, but come with an added advantage of efficiency, ease of installation as well as speed during installation. This, therefore, reduces the times as well as money spent on having a structure completed. A structurally integrated panel also aids in the construction structures that are superior in strength and that offer sturdy racking resistance.

Additionally, the panels also have polystyrene insulated cores that give a higher R-value for every inch contrasted to cellulose insulations and even fiberglass. Essentially the increased R-value also imply that infiltration levels are reduced. This actually aids in energy efficiency by cutting down in energy costs in their entire service period in your home.

At the same time, there are some disadvantages with SIPs. One such disadvantage is that many builders find them to be intimidating and unfamiliar. Usually, these construction materials require special tools and cranes during installation. At the same time, there need to be thorough project planning with sufficient time to run the project so as to accommodate engineering used, manufacturing, code approvals, and shipping.

At the same time, stick framings owing to their century-long existence are deemed an ancient construction method that a lot of experienced contractors can attest to have had an experience or idea with. This material is largely easy to find and at a fair price. Again, the material permits the implementation of changes to construction forms even after construction work has begun. They additionally occur in variant sizes that as well accommodate the fitting of doors and windows. They are as well give room for flexibility in designing.

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.

Another disadvantage is sealing difficulties to achieve a good insulation. As a result, there is so much infiltration. This results in moisture problems leaving the material prone to insect attacks and rotting. In addition, spray foam can also help in sealing and improving the R-value even if it might not guarantee insulation and airtightness that also decreases with time.




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