There are a number of benefits of building with structural insulated panels (SIPs). Smart Home Designs Niagara doesn’t only build with SIPs, but using steel SIPs—PIR foam insulation sandwiched by steel panels. This means the panels are the structure, insulation and moisture barrier all in one. In addition, the eye-catching appearance of the panels—available in many different colours—does not require exterior finishing such as siding, or even interior, such as drywall.
WHY BUILD WITH STEEL SIPs?
Simple and fast construction—used for exterior and interior walls
The air-tight fit results in no air leakage or drafts—reducing heating and cooling costs
Excellent fire resistance—versus wood construction, which burns easily
R-value exceeds Ontario building code requirements—100 mm panel used for exterior walls rated 26.75
Unattractive to pests—wood acts as a food source for many pests and insects
Materials are 100% recyclable—waste can be recycled
Core material is a CFC-,HCFC, and fibre-free PIR (polyisocyanurate) foam—due to high R-value and manufacturing process of PIR, an environmentally friendly material
Responsibly sourced materials—products are BES 6001 certified, confirming sites are operated responsibly, and assurance that third party constituent materials have been responsibly sourced.
Steel interior wall panels allow for thorough cleaning and disinfecting with ease—ideal for high-volume usage and high turnover of occupants
Frequently Asked Questions
Concrete slab on grade (can be a typical frost-wall foundation or engineered floating slab).
Using Steel Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), exterior and interior walls are anchored together on the concrete foundation.
The SIPs are used as interior walls and so structures do not require wooden beams or studs. However, certain designs may require additional support from wooden or steel beams.
The roof is also constructed using SIPs.
Generally, a home constructed with SIPs should take about half the amount of time as a traditional wood-framed home, depending on the features and finishes.
Drywall or any other finish can be incorporated. For off-shore worker housing and any other homes that require a deep clean, it is not necessary to add drywall as it diminishes the ability to easily clean and maintain the interior walls of the home and adds to the overall cost and time of the build.
Homes can be heated by a forced-air furnace or in-floor heating powered by gas, propane, or electricity—the choice is yours. A/C can be incorporated as well. All options are available as they would be with a traditional build, although there is greater efficiency due to the tight fit of the structure and high R-value of insulation, which greatly reduces drafts and leaks.
We aim to hide all plumbing and electrical within the walls and structure using innovative methods and techniques.
Openings are measured and cut as with a traditional build. The windows and doors are secured with steel channels for a tight and clean finish.
An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilation) system can be included in the design and build of the housing unit.
Smart Home Designs Niagara can coordinate permits on your behalf for the build with your municipality.
We can customize the design and size to accommodate whatever your needs are. We have some standard concepts and floorplans available.
An estimate can be provided after a consultation with Smart Home Designs Niagara.
However, the most cost-effective solution is a 1-storey unit.