The outside facings are Orientated Strand boards (OSB/3), which are manufactured using wood from the annual thinning of managed forests. The panel is a laminated composite of these materials produced in Western Australia.

What are Structural Insulated Panels Made of?Įach panel contains two outer engineered timber facings and a polystyrene foam interior core. This means that builders don’t have to spend time creating these openings before installing the panel, which saves them even more money on labour costs. They can be used to construct walls between rooms, around corners and even through obstructions like pillars because the panels are pre-fitted with openings for electrical wiring and plumbing. SIP panels are also more versatile than conventional construction materials so they can be installed in buildings of virtually any size or shape. The panels are typically much lighter as well which allows them to be put up very quickly. They are much stronger than traditional wood-framed walls and can withstand earthquakes remarkably well. SIPs are made by combining several materials, including rigid foam insulation, plywood or OSB panels and a variety of adhesives. The initial cost is high so when you purchase SIP panels, it’s important to be aware of what you’re getting into before you sign on the dotted line. Since they can cut labour costs in half and speed up construction by 50 per cent, they’re an excellent choice for developing areas as well as those that could use a little extra help to stay competitive with other communities. SIP panels are a great option for builders that want to provide a quality product, but keep costs down at the same time. This article may help you find a quality supplier that offers both affordability and durability so you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other. Panel quality can vary greatly, with some being made from lower-quality materials that cannot withstand the test of time.

It is important to note that not all SIP panels are created equal. SIPs are more expensive upfront, but they provide an excellent return on investment over time. A comparison of the cost per square meter for SIP panels and conventional construction.

Building with sip panels