![]() While we’ve proved that SIPs offer superior insulating power, what does that mean for your residential and commercial projects? For starters, builders and architects can save time, labor and money. Why R-values truly matter when it comes to SIP panels As ORNL found, as outside temperatures dropped, so too did fiberglass’ R-values decrease. Expanded polystyrene with a stated R-value of R 3.9 per inch at 75☏ was tested at R-4.2 at per inch at 50☏ and R-4.4 per inch at 25☏.” This was not the case with fiberglass in attics. As the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) shares, studies by Oak Ridge National Laboratories (ORNL) of attic insulation reveal that the rigid foam insulation used in SIPs “actually performs better in colder temperatures. It’s also worth noting how SIPs perform better than loose-fill fiberglass insulation. SIPs thickness can additionally contribute to overall R-values. This means that OSB can help provide a higher R-value for the entire wall surface, known as whole-wall R-value (an R-value estimation for insulation, structural details, and building envelope interface elements). OSB further offers a higher insulating value when compared with metal or dimensional lumber studs’ R-values. In fact, SIPs can be 15 times tighter than conventional construction, which is vulnerable to air infiltration. Since the two materials are laminated together, gaps found in buildings with traditional studs are eliminated. With SIPs, OSBs completely envelop the insulating core. Now, let’s move outward to the SIPs’ “bread” – oriented strand board (OSB). SIPs’ R-values can vary depending on the type of core material used, and we at Extreme Panel Technologies are partial to expanded polystyrene for its stable numbers throughout its time in service. Since there are few other chemicals in the insulation, R-values remain consistent and unchanging over time. With the SIPs’ expanded polystyrene rigid foam core, or the “filling,” the insulation consists of 98% air. Let’s start with a visual of the SIP sandwich. ![]() SIP Panels’ Rigid Foam Insulation + OSB = superior insulating power But, how exactly are SIPs able to achieve such high ratings? The higher the R-value, the better the product’s ability to serve as an effective thermal barrier. R-value is a measure of how well insulation resists the flow of heat or cold. One of the reasons SIPs are so effective is that they deliver high R-values. Instead, continuous insulation products like structural insulated panels (SIPs) are here to provide a more energy efficient building envelope.Īs discussed in last month’s blog, SIPs are a high-performance building system alternative. When you hear the word “insulation,” do visions of cotton candy looking fiberglass dance in your head? Fortunately, advances in technology mean you don’t have to rely on this itchy, pink nightmare. SIP Panels and R-Values: What They Mean and Why They Matter
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