Structured Insulated Panels, or SIPs, are having a profound effect on the construction industry.
Pre-engineered SIPs consist of rigid insulation sandwiched between two panels of structural material, such as oriented strand board or plywood. Most commonly used for exterior walls, SIPs are quickly and easily installed. In fact, their use can shorten construction time and reduce labor costs by 40 to 48%.
This makes SIPs especially well-suited to affordable housing and to any project relying on less-skilled labor. The volunteer labor forces of Habitat for Humanity, for example, often have little or no construction experience. Yet by using SIPs, they can erect high-quality walls within a few days.