Are Structural Insulated Panels SIPs for the Do-It-Yourself-er? The Answer "It Depends!"
Are Structural Insulated Panels SIPs for the Do-It-Yourself-er? The best answer would be “It depends.” With the new DIY boom, many homeowners are jumping in with both feet when building a new home.
Contrary to common belief, saving money is not the only reason why secretaries, computer programmers, store clerks, school teachers, mechanics and even soccer moms choose to “Do-It-Yourself” their own home. Wishing to immerse themselves in the process, take control of the decision making process and enjoy the satisfaction of creating the most intimate and personal space of their home is often the primary motivational force. Future DIY-ers are inspired by channels such as HGTV and DIY Network, featuring shows such as Home Crashers and Run My Renovation. Endless internet sites and blogs cite the process, its ease and successes. Free step-by-step how-to’s post on product manufacturer’s websites and YouTube. Weekend how-to classes offer hand’s on experience at Home Depot and Lowes. For-cost, week-long encampments are offered under the instruction of experienced professionals. All this propels the DIY homeowner forward with a strong sense of confidence.
Should Homeowners Install Structural Insulated Panels Themselves?
So, can or should a homeowners install Structural Insulated Panels SIPs themselves? This question can’t be simply answered without gathering more information. Which Structural Insulated Panel is being referred to? Does the Do-It-Yourself-er have any real construction experience? Will the DIY-er own or have access to the necessary equipment required for the installation of the insulation panel? What type of installation support is offered by the SIP panel manufacturer?
Sandwich Panel SIPs Not A Good Fit
Many types of structural insulated panels are not well suited for DIY'ers. One of these would be Sandwich Panel SIPs consisting of a solid foam insulation core, generally a styrofoam product, with oriented strand board (OSB) glued on either side as a nail base and making up the structural part of the panel. These panels are available in varying thicknesses and insulation values, and in modular format in 4 foot widths and varying lengths. They also are available in “whole wall” prefabricated format, making up to the entire length of a home’s exterior wall or roof section. Either format is quite large, very heavy generally requiring the use of an onsite crane for installation. Critical proper installation methods of Sandwich Panel Structural Insulated Panels SIPs do not make them a good product for Do-It-Yourselfers. And most Sandwich Panel Manufactures offer no warranty if the panels are not installed by a certified installer.
So… Is there a Structural Insulated Panel out there for the Do-It-Yourselfer?
The answer to this question is YES!
Structural Insulated Panels SIPs for the Do-It-Yourselfer by RAY-CORE RAYCORE Structural Insulated Panels SIPs are the perfect product for the DIY-er.
Not a “Sandwich Panel”: RAYCORE’s patented panels are different. RAY-CORE SIPs ™ take the tried and true methods of conventional construction including the structural integrity of studs, foamed in place super insulating polyurethane foam between the studs and wraps the 4 foot wide modular panels in a radiant foil barrier. This produces a super lightweight (as little as 48 lbs), easy to handle (no cranes required), superiorly insulating (up to R-52) and labor saving Structural Insulated Panel SIP that requires no more knowledge from a Do-It-Yourself-er than simple conventional framing practices.
When starting your new home project you can Do-It-Yourself with RAYCORE Structural Insulated Panels SIPS. Learn how easy it...
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By Email at: info@raycore.com or by Phone: 1.877.552.2440 or…
