SIP BUILDING BEST PRACTICES – OVERVIEW

Building with SIPs:

NEED TO KNOW

LD ING
BU I TICES
T P RAC
BES
Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 2
Building with SIPs:
NEED TO KNOW

BUILDING CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

High-performance building envelopes use SIPs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

SIP performance is based on more than its stated R-value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

HVAC system rightsizing reduces costs and enhances comfort and performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

SIP structural capabilities cater well to virtually any design .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

SIPs are typically factory cut for accuracy, quality and reduced onsite labor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

SIPs are manufactured using “SIP shop (or panelized) drawings” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

SIPs are customized to varying levels depending on client needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Roof and wall assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Factory cut electrical chases reduce electrician time in the field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Design plumbing into interior walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Resource to better understand the science of building with SIPs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

CHECKLIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

High-Performance Building Envelope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

HVAC Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Structural Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

SIP Sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Shop Drawings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

SIP Fabrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

SIP Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Roof and Wall Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Electrical .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 3

BUILDING CONSIDERATIONS
This document was created specifically for builders by the manufacturing members of the
Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA). It highlights important considerations during
the construction phase of a structural insulated panel (SIP) structure. Decades of combined
knowledge from SIPA manufacturers will help reduce the learning curve and leverage
SIPs’ exceptional qualities to achieve the high-performance results owners expect when
building with SIPs. The content provides a common industry platform for SIP construction.
SIPA hopes to make your building process easier and more efficient.

Photo courtesy of SIPA

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 4

High-performance building SIP performance is based on
envelopes use SIPs more than its stated R-value
SIPs yield high-performance building envelopes with R-values of SIPs are readily available from SIP
energy performance well beyond conventional framing. manufacturers. These are useful insulation metrics
SIPs provide a core of high R-value solid insulation but only one component in the evaluation of a
typically requiring no additional continuous insulation high-performance building envelope. Integration of all
on the building exterior. Elimination of traditional batt system components and airtightness of the envelope
or spray insulations eradicates the installation quality assembly are more important considerations when
challenges these products create and removes the seeking performance over individual component
need for insulation subcontractors. The large size metrics. To illustrate this, the Department of Energy’s
of SIPs results in fewer air gaps, reduced thermal Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) tested the
bridging from fewer lumber connections (lower performance of large section wall assemblies. The
framing factor) and elimination of air spaces within resulting whole-wall R-value data revealed that a
the wall cavity. SIPs provide a virtually airtight 4-inch SIP wall rated at R-14 outperformed a 2×6-inch
envelope improving indoor air quality (IAQ) and wall with R-19 fiberglass insulation. The whole-wall
creating healthier homes and businesses. Airtightness R-value was R-21 for a 6-inch SIP wall or 96% higher
also reduces HVAC sizing and dramatically improves than the whole-wall R-value of R-11 for the 2x6-inch
occupant comfort by providing consistent room wall using theoretically R-19 fiberglass insulation.
temperatures, regardless of the number of floors. ORNL also tested a SIP structure side by side with
A SIP’s thickness determines its insulation R-value, a conventional 2x4 structure to evaluate air leakage.
but the greatest gain comes from the tightness of the The SIP structure had only 7% the air leakage of the
engineered design and the other high-performance conventional structure. In short, unlike for SIPs, joining
components (HVAC, windows, etc.) as specified. real-world air-leakage rates and thermal bridging for
conventionally framed structures lowers performance
far below their theoretically calculated effective
insulation R-values. For more information relating to
key, high-performance building envelope metrics, visit
the technical drop-down menu at www.sips.org.

Kelly’s 1862 Timber Frame Home, Columbus OH

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 5

HVAC system rightsizing SIP structural capabilities cater
reduces costs and enhances well to virtually any design
comfort and performance SIP structural capacities comply with building
SIP envelopes deliver a high-performance, virtually codes through evaluation reports from third-party
airtight shell. Because of this, the building must have evaluators including ICC NTA, Intertek, and IAPMO.
mechanical make-up air. Several options introduce SIPs’ increased strength over conventional framing
fresh air with varying degrees of complexity and cost. enables greater design flexibility. A SIP can span up
To ensure a balanced HVAC system, consider to 24 feet when incorporating structural connections
specifying a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) or Energy (splines) eliminating intermediate support structures
Recovery Ventilator (ERV). Superior SIP energy and creating spectacular vaulted ceilings. Many
efficiency and airtightness reduce HVAC equipment designs eliminate headers with conscious awareness
load and often provide savings via smaller unit of where point loads are located, reducing costs, labor
requirements. Design should also include HVAC and thermal breaks. SIP manufacturers publish charts
installed inside the conditioned SIP envelope. to determine load capacities and work with designers
Conventional practice cannot be used in sizing HVAC and builders to ensure code conformance. SIPA
equipment for SIP structures. Oversized equipment manufacturing members are an invaluable resource;
is not only more costly but short cycles inhibiting the each provides understanding on how SIP height,
building’s ability to dehumidify causing comfort and thickness and connection methods affect the
mold concerns. SIP building designers, HERS raters structure’s design. Manufacturers can provide lists
and HVAC professionals can accurately calculate of structural engineers experienced with SIPs.
thermal performance of SIP envelopes using energy
modeling with ASHRAE Manual J or REM/Rate or
Ekotrope design software. Actual air leakage perfor-
mance is best determined by a pre-drywall blower
door test. SIP structures typically achieve less than
2 ACH@50pa at this stage, but values less than 1
ACH50 are often achieved with proper design and
installation. While SIPs provide the basis for an airtight
structure, overall performance can be compromised if
proper consideration for energy load calculation inputs
or installation is not given to the other critical system
components (e.g. windows, HVAC, plumbing, etc.).

Purtee Project, Moscow ID Trillium Studios, Norwell MA

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 6

SIPs are typically factory SIPs are manufactured using
cut for accuracy, quality and “SIP shop (or panelized)
reduced onsite labor drawings”
The cost and scarcity of construction labor is a SIPA manufacturers convert architectural drawings into
challenge; the more that can be done by the SIP SIP shop drawings. Shop drawings specify SIP size,
manufacturer, the less demand for what has become layout, assembly details and installation specifications.
a scarce resource – jobsite labor. Because SIPs are They are also used for factory fabrication purposes.
manufactured in very large sizes (up to 8 x 24 feet), Shop drawings are provided to the client, or their
there are fewer connections, resulting in faster authorized representative, for review and approval.
installations and a much tighter envelope. Working Commitment to the drawing review process is crucial.
with SIPA manufacturers, designers and builders can Attention to detail during review ensures fabricated
reduce costs by employing common SIP dimensional panel accuracy, installation ease and meeting SIP
sizes of 4’, 8’, 12’, 16’, etc. in their designs. Factory performance expectations. Early interaction with the
lumber installations minimize jobsite labor while SIP manufacturer helps design optimization resulting
ensuring joint and boundary connection quality. in material cost savings and installation speed. SIPA
manufacturers can share samples of SIP shop
drawings for your review and understanding.

Photo courtesy of SIPA

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 7

SIPs are customized to Roof and wall assemblies
varying levels depending on SIPs are compatible with conventional roof and wall
client needs claddings. Unlike traditional framing, there is no
internal air cavity within the SIP. The foam core of
SIPA manufacturers offer differing levels of SIP
SIPs is solid and continuous throughout the wall and
fabrication. They include blank SIPs, prefabricated
roof, eliminating convection and condensation issues
SIPs and ready-to-assemble (RTA) packages.
occurring in conventional cavities. It is important to
BLANK SIPs are the least expensive, but limit ensure a code-approved weather-resistive barrier
your installation speed advantage, create additional is specified under wall claddings and approved
waste, and require a higher degree of installation underlayments for roof covering. Designing for the
skill as all cutting is performed onsite. appropriate climate zone will help maximize durability.
In some climate zones, a back-ventilated assembly
PREFABRICATED SIPs are designed and cut
may be appropriate. Because SIPs use very little
in the factory increasing site installation speed,
solid lumber, an increased fastener schedule could be
improving fit and finish.
required when attaching exterior cladding. Application
RTA packages include factory preinstalled internal of fully adhered products to SIPs roofs is not
lumber and headers maximizing onsite speed and recommended. A separation layer should be added
efficiency. between the SIP roof and underlayment to avoid
Prefabricated is typical although, as labor becomes damage to the exterior SIP facing should there be
scarce, RTA packages are gaining in popularity. SIPA a need to remove and replace the underlayment in
manufacturers can provide detail concerning benefits the future.
of each option.

Melody Lane, Wauseon OH

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 8

Factory cut electrical Design plumbing into
chases reduce electrician interior walls
time in the field Eliminating the possibility of condensation or supply
Electrical chases are typically provided by SIPA lines freezing within a SIP wall is an important design
manufacturers simplifying electrical rough-in and consideration. Plumbing should be relocated to interior
saving electrician labor by eliminating time spent walls wherever possible. If plumbing must be located
drilling holes in studs. Vertical and horizontal chases on an exterior wall, it is recommended that an external
are provided in SIP walls to assist with wiring. chase be installed on the interior side of the SIP wall
Standard practice is to cut chases horizontally at to conceal plumbing. Plumbing penetrations such as
outlet and switch heights. Chases can be added to drain waste vent pipes can be placed perpendicularly
SIP roofs upon request. Use of surface mounted LED through SIPs if thoroughly sealed to prevent air
lighting is recommended in place of recessed lighting infiltration. Consult with a SIPA manufacturer if this
as they don’t penetrate the envelope and jeopardize is necessary.
airtightness. Determining electrical requirements
prior to SIP manufacturing reduces the inefficiency To better understand the
of field installation. Plan a shop drawing review with
the electrician prior to final approvals to verify chase
science of building with SIPs
locations, accommodate electrical layout and ensure Review “Builder’s Guide to Structural Insulated Panels
code compliance. for all Climates” by Joseph Lstiburek. This resource
provides invaluable assistance in Building Science
related details and can be purchased online at
Amazon or www.sips.org.

Heather’s Home, Lake Weatherford TX

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 9

Building with SIPs:
CHECKLIST
The Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) provides this checklist sharing the
members’ decades of knowledge to ensure the best experience and outcome for designers,
builders, and owners of structural insulated panel (SIP) buildings. The Association’s
well-versed nuances of SIP design and construction will help you take advantage of
SIP best practices and incorporate them into your projects.

CHECKLIST

High-Performance Building Envelope

SIPs are used to design high-performance building envelopes offering energy performance beyond
conventional framing.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. SIP envelopes are intended to be high-performing. The objective is to build the building as tight as
possible and allow mechanical ventilation to manage air flow. This will make for a healthier, more
comfortable structure with improved indoor air quality (IAQ).

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Utilize SIP manufacturer approved sealing methods to limit air and vapor transmission through
SIP joints.

n 2. Seal all penetrations (pipes, vents, chimneys) through the SIP envelope with manufacturer
approved sealants.

n 3. Use a blower door test to verify your SIP installation.

n 4. Contact a SIPA manufacturing member at www.sips.org to learn about the benefits of SIP construction.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 10

CHECKLIST

HVAC Systems
SIP envelopes deliver high-performance, extremely airtight envelopes. The energy efficiency and airtightness
positively affect the HVAC design resulting in smaller unit requirements.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Oversizing equipment jeopardizes building and equipment durability while needlessly increasing
expenses.

n 2. SIP building designers, HERS raters, and HVAC professionals must accurately calculate thermal
performance of SIP envelopes.

n 3. An energy model using ASHRAE Manual J or REM/Rate or Ekotrope design software should be used to
verify proper equipment sizing.

n 4. High-performance structures designed and built extremely airtight must have mechanical make-up air.
There are several options with varying degrees of complexity and cost ensuring a balanced HVAC
system that will introduce fresh air.

n 5. Penetrations in the SIP envelope should be sealed to maximize airtightness.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Work with an HVAC professional that is familiar with high-performing, extremely airtight structures.

n 2. Use energy calculations reflecting proper SIP foam core long-term thermal R-values along with energy
efficiency and the extreme airtightness of the envelope to avoid HVAC equipment oversizing.

n 3. Keep all HVAC equipment and duct work inside the conditioned SIP envelope.

n 4. Consider specifying a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV), as referenced
in ASHRAE 62.2 guidelines, for balanced fresh make-up air.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 11

CHECKLIST

Structural Capabilities
SIPs have the structural strength to work well in virtually any design.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. The entire SIP works together to carry and manage loads. Therefore cross cutting SIP facings should
only be done with manufacturer’s or engineer’s approval. Trimming of facings to attain a good fit is
acceptable, as well as making cuts for small openings, such as electrical boxes.

n 2. Manufacturers publish construction manuals and load design charts that can be accessed to understand
structural capacities.

n 3. SIPs are compatible with internal conventional framing when special structural requirements are met.

n 4. Point loads may dictate the need for additional structural components to be embedded internally. Avoid
point loads over openings to allow SIPs to act as the header without the need for additional structural
elements.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Contact a SIPA manufacturing member at www.sips.org to request their structural information and
evaluation report.

n 2. Follow manufacturer’s recommended spline fastening schedules.

n 3. Check foundation or floor deck for square, level, and correct dimensions. Shim and adjust as needed.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 12

CHECKLIST

SIP Sizes
SIPs can be manufactured in very large sizes (up to 8 x 24 feet). Large monolithic SIPs provide faster installation
and reduce the number of connections which results in a much tighter envelope.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. SIPs are large and adequate room is needed for receiving, staging, and lifting panels. Three-inch-wide
supports are recommended every 8 feet minimum to keep SIPs off the ground and to keep them level.

n 2. Lifting equipment such as a SkyTrak or telehandler (all terrain forklift) is recommended for unloading and
stacking SIPs. Fork extensions for 8-foot-wide SIPs are recommended.

n 3. If the crew size or site conditions dictate smaller hand setting of SIPs is needed, be sure to make your
manufacturer aware of limitations upfront.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Contact a SIPA manufacturing member at www.sips.org to learn about their SIP size capabilities.

n 2. Use appropriate methods for moving, stacking, handling and erecting SIPs to maintain the integrity of
the SIPs and promote the safety of the construction team.

n 3. Protect the SIPs from weather upon delivery until time of installation.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 13

CHECKLIST

Shop Drawings
SIP manufacturers typically convert your architectural drawings into SIP shop drawings. Shop drawings specify
SIP size, layout, assembly details and installation specifications. They are also used by the SIP manufacturer for
accurate CNC fabrication.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Understand the difference between purchasing SIPs without any fabrication, fabricated SIPs, and a full
ready-to-assemble (RTA) package. Fabricated or ready-to-assemble SIP packages reduce waste onsite
and require less time and skill.

n 2. Depending on complexity of design, need for engineering, permitting and possible revisions, the
development of shop drawings is a process that relies on engagement from those reviewing these
drawings on behalf of the building owner.

n 3. Window/door schedule will have to come with the plans so the designer can draw the proper plans.

n 4. SIPs are pre-cut in the factory per the shop drawings. Building the foundation as accurately as
possible will help reduce onsite adjustment. Slightly larger in size is preferred to allow for minor
adjustments onsite.

n 5. Shop drawings are provided for client review and approval.

n 6. There will be a lead time from shop drawing approval to delivery.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Contact a SIPA manufacturing member at www.sips.org and ask for a sample SIP shop drawing for your
review and understanding.

n 2. Involve the SIP manufacturer early to ensure SIP design optimization. Minor alterations can provide
dramatic savings in material costs and speed of installation.

n 3. Communicate with manufacturer regarding any unique needs such as backers, structure in SIPs, solar
panels, or hanging floor system to assure a quality build.

n 4. Understand what lumber and other accessories are coming with the SIP package and what must be
ordered (top/bottom plates, bucks, posts, beams, etc.). This will reduce onsite delays.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 14

CHECKLIST

SIP Fabrication
Different levels of SIP fabrication are offered by SIP manufacturers. They include blank SIPs, prefabricated SIPs,
and ready-to-assemble (RTA) packages.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Blank SIPs are the least expensive, but limit your speed of installation advantage, create additional
onsite waste, and require a higher degree of installation skill as all cutting is performed onsite.

n 2. Prefabricated SIPs are designed and cut in the factory to increase speed of installation and improved fit
and finish on the jobsite.

n 3. An RTA package includes internal lumber and headers provided and preinstalled in the factory to
maximize speed and efficiency onsite.

ACTION ITEM:

n Contact a SIP manufacturing member at www.sips.org to learn about their SIP fabrication capabilities.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 15

CHECKLIST

SIP Installation
SIPs are high-performance building envelopes and an experienced SIP installer is strongly recommended.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Assure there is a capillary break between the SIPs and concrete floors, foundations and walls.

n 2. Typically, it is best to start installation of wall SIPs at a corner.

n 3. The use of ratchet straps to pull SIPs together can be very helpful during installation.

n 4. During installation, it is important to drill plates and connectors to allow access to electrical chases.

n 5. Brace SIPs appropriately during construction to withstand wind-related issues.

n 6. When installing roof SIPs, install splines and “chicken sticks” on the ground, to make the process easier.

n 7. Due to the “stack effect” (air exfiltration), the ridge joint is the most important joint in the house. Follow
manufacturer’s ridge sealing detail to the letter!

n 8. A factory representative is recommended during the initial stages of installation for a first time SIP
user, to help expedite the SIP installation, ensuring the system is installed as required and meets
performance targets.

n 9. After the project has been erected, review all SIP joints to ensure properly nailed and sealed.

n 10. Training programs ensure that an educated installer understands the importance of properly installing and
sealing the SIP package. Available programs include:
o SIPA online training course
o SIPA Registered Master Builder program
o SIPschool hands-on field training
o Carpenters International Training Fund for SIPs
o SIP manufacturer in-house training programs.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Contact SIPA at www.sips.org to find experienced SIP installers.

n 2. Use a blower door test to verify your SIP installation and look for problems that can be fixed pre-drywall.

n 3. Ensure appropriate installation tools are available, such as lifting plates, sealant applicators, foam scoop,
hot wire kit, 8’ level, sledgehammer, Fork Extensions, etc.

n 4. Spot check site dimensions versus SIPs is suggested, to assure a good fit, prior to lifting roof panels.

n 5. Use semi-permeable membranes on SIP roofs to allow for water vapor / moisture escape. Peel and stick
membranes are generally not recommended to cover the entire roof. Use of non-permeable membranes
on roof edges and valleys is acceptable.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 16

CHECKLIST

Roof and Wall Assemblies

SIPs are compatible with conventional roof and wall claddings. As with all high-performance building envelopes,
proper detailing is critical.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Verify manufacturer recommended sealing of SIP joints is completed prior to installation of cladding.

n 2. In climate zones 4 and colder, SIP Tape should be installed on the interior of the structure. Do not
provide complete coverage on the exterior of a vapor barrier such as peel and stick underlayment.
Standard application of ice and water underlayment at eaves and valleys is acceptable over a SIP roof.

n 3. Application of fully adhered products to SIP roofs is not recommended. A separation layer is
recommended to facilitate future roofing replacement.

n 4. SIPs can withstand minor wetting during the construction process. Covering SIPs with roof and wall
cladding should be completed as soon as practical but only when SIPs are dry.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Review “Builder’s Guide to Structural Insulated Panels for all Climates” by Joseph Lstiburek. This
resource will provide invaluable assistance in Building Science related details and can be purchased
online at Amazon or at www.sips.org.

n 2. Verify manufacturer recommended sealing of SIP joints is completed prior to installation of cladding.

n 3. Use code-approved underlayment and roof covering.

n 4. Use code-approved weather-resistive barrier under cladding for walls.

n 5. Follow cladding manufacturer’s recommendations for fastening to SIPs. If not available, review fastener
capacities in OSB to determine fastening schedule.

n 6. Provide specific instructions to the wall cladding and roofing trades. This input should be consistent with
the detailing needed for the climate and type of cladding.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 17

CHECKLIST

Electrical
Electrical chases are typically provided by the SIP manufacturer to simplify the electrical rough-in, saving the
electrician a great deal of time in the field.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Vertical and horizontal chases are provided in SIP walls assisting with wiring at outlet and switch
heights.

n 2. Wall and roof chases can be added or removed, prior to SIP manufacture.

n 3. Shop drawings will confirm all chase locations to avoid cutting SIPs in the field unnecessarily. Pre-
planning for installation and special chase locations is critical.

n 4. Electrical chases should be sealed after electrical rough-in inspection to maximize airtightness.

n 5. An experienced SIP installer is your best insurance that the electrical rough-in will go smoothly.

n 6. Recessed lights are not recommended for installation in SIP roofs. Use of surface mounted LED lighting
is recommended.

ACTION ITEMS:

n 1. Plan a review of the shop drawings with the electrician to verify chase locations to accommodate
electrical layout and code compliance.

n 2. Do not cross cut SIP facings for electrical access.

n 3. Mark wiring holes on the deck or SIP so the electrician can easily find them.

n 4. Consult with your SIP manufacturer concerning electrical chases in roofs.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 18

CHECKLIST

Plumbing
Plumbing should be placed within interior walls to protect the integrity of the high-performance envelope and to avoid
the freezing of the supply lines in cold climates.

KEY POINTS:

n 1. Plumbing is recommended to be placed in interior walls to provide for an optimal exterior building
envelope.

n 2. Minimize roof penetrations and consider consolidating all vents away from south facing roof planes for
potential solar array.

ACTION ITEM:

n If plumbing needs to be placed in exterior walls, consult with SIP manufacturer.

Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW Page 19

Ford Residence, Hedgesville WV Photo courtesy of SIPA

Discover how easily you can start or deepen your understanding of designing, installing, and excelling with
SIPs in your next commercial or residential project with the decades of industry learnings, tips, and resources
at your fingertips:

• SIP Industry AIA/MasterSpec Specification

• Designing with SIPs: Design Considerations

• Building with SIPs: Need to Know

• SIP Best Practice Deeper Dives

• Technical Bulletins

• Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) Engineering Design Guide

• Builder’s Guide to SIPs book by Joseph Lstiburek of Building Science Corporation

• Building Education with SIPs Training (BEST) Videos and Certification

• AIA Continuing Education Courses, Lunch & Learns and YouTube videos

• Detailed case studies, award-winning project briefs, and SIP project USA map

Get all this and much, much more at www.sips.org

www.sips.org • P.O. Box 39848, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33339 • 253-858-7472 B1