Avalon Building Systems Blog

Modular “SIPs” or Structural Insulated Panels were first designed by Avalon Building Systems. These panels are used in their modular homes. SIPs are prefabricated insulated sides of the modules which make up the walls, ceilings, floors, and roofs. They provide more superior and uniform insulation than stud or "stick frame" construction, with energy savings of 12%–14%. Because of their insulating qualities, SIPs also make the home quieter. These modular homes easily exceed "Energy Star Standards" and are certified to meet LEEDS platinum standards for new residential construction. LEED certification is based on a point system in which a building can obtain a Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum level certification and is an internationally recognized certification system that measures how well a building performs in energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor air quality, and more.
 
Structural Insulated Panels are made in a factory and shipped to the manufacturing facilities. Manufacturers then connect them together to construct a house. When using SIPs, the speed of construction is much faster than stick built residential construction. Shells can be erected quickly, saving labor time and money, without compromising quality. These savings help compensate for the fact that SIPs usually cost more than other construction systems, but through the modular manufacturing process which is far more efficient than traditional construction, the overall costs are much lower, so the higher costs of SIPs are negated. 

SIPs are very strong and in most applications are structurally self-sufficient. Designers can use them in wall, roof and floor systems in place of other structural elements. While frequently used in one- or two-story buildings, they have been successfully utilized for taller structures. We know that SIPs are a powerful addition to use in any modular home construction due to their high strength and consistency.

In walls, SIPs can bear high loads and offer great strength in racking diaphragm shear capacities. These capabilities enable the panels to be used in typical exterior walls, as well as shear walls to resist earthquakes and high winds. Extensive testing on SIPs has proven them for use in high-risk earthquake areas, including seismic zones D, E and F.

In roofs, SIPs can be used without an engineered truss system and can span long distances up to 20 feet based on design parameters. As a result, they can help create open interior spaces by reducing the need for intermediate structural supports. Designers can also incorporate SIPs into floors, typically in applications such as over crawl spaces where an insulated floor system is required.

SIPs play an important role in ensuring quality finishes. Because they are made in a controlled setting and come in large sections, they allow for straighter walls than is possible with wood stick-built framing. Their smooth and even surface can also reduce finishing labor by helping eliminate the need to shim cabinets, windows and doors.

Not only do SIPs provide excellent durability in modular homes but they are environmentally friendly and a huge cost saving technique. SIPs reduce energy costs, as well as construction waste, by up to 60 percent, and play a role in improving indoor air quality and supporting recycling. Planning, designing and constructing modular buildings is more challenging than ever. To survive, and even thrive, in the home market requires new ways of thinking . SIPs are a tried and trusted construction technique that offers a way to greatly improve light modular construction.

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) have been around for more than 50 years, but despite their many benefits, they have had minimal traction in the building industry for decades. As interest in green building and energy efficiency have increased SIPs have gained popularity as a viable alternative to stick-built framing.

Consolidating framing, insulation, and sheathing into one installation step - SIPs are primarily constructed with two outer skins of OSB laminated to an insulating foam core of either expanded polystyrene or polyisocyanurate. Studies have shown that SIPs provide a more energy-efficient and airtight structure than stick framing because they create a wall with continuous R-value, and wall studs create a thermal break, counteracting the effects of batt and even foam insulation. SIPs are typically 40 to 60 percent more energy efficient than stick construction. In addition, tested structural strength, efficient use of natural resources, warranties, and reduced cost of labor add to their appeal.

The panels are factory-built, some supplied as blanks with no cut-outs, others with window and door openings designed into the panel and with electrical chases routed, reducing waste on the jobsite. Avalon Building Systems offer ready-to-assemble systems that require no on-site cutting.  We service MA, ME, CT, RI, NY, VT, NH areas.