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Building, like anything else, is an evolving art, something that never really stands still.  Yes, there are fundamental aspects of the craft that have existed for as long as people have been building structures, but it’s what you do with those fundamentals that I believe sets some builders apart from others.

Being fundamentally sound is always going to be important, and it should be.  But being open to new ideas is equally important, and when you can marry the two together, you get something that’s truly special.

This blog is my way to share some of the the creative ideas that catch my eye as I do my research.  As well, it’s an opportunity for me to put forward some of the current thinking that pertains to homebuilding, and some of the creative new design features that are being showcased by other builders worldwide.

It keeps the discussion going, and to me, communication of ideas is an important thing.  Whether it’s my own original design, or an interpretation of that of another, your home is likely going to be the most significant purchase you’ll make in your life.  My goal is that you be totally happy with the end product.

Structurally insulated panels have been used in home building since the mid-1930’s, but the process of using SIPs has become much more prevalent in the last couple of decades as the benefits of using these materials become more obvious in a world of high-energy costs.

SIPS are most often made of OSB panels wrapped around a foam core comprised of expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), or polyurethane.  The panels, as well, can be made of alternate materials, including plywood, steel, aluminum, and cement board.

The cost of structurally insulated panels, at one time higher than other available materials, is now comparable with other methods.  But the benefits to the home owner are very impressive.

A home built by a competent builder using these panels can expect to yield energy savings in the area of 40% in both the short and long term.  SIPs out-perform other materials because of their superior thermal insulation, which also contributes to their effective resistance to damp and cold.

The panels, which can be used for floor and roof in addition to walls, require the use of fewer tradespeople, and less time for the tradespeople that are required.  They are lightweight and compact, making them incredibly easy to work with, and can come pre-cut from a factory to cater to specific job requirements.  All of this translates into a more efficient construction timeline, and by extension, quality home completions in a shorter period of time.

Structurally, SIPs have been shown to be superior to conventionally-framed construction when it comes to performance in axial load strength.  They have a tremendous amount of versatility, since they can do the job as framing, insulation, and exterior sheathing, and this same versatility means that they’re excellent materials to be used when working with custom designs.