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Panelized Home KitsThere is a difference between SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) and Panelized home kits. I didn’t realize this until I did some additional research. SIPs consist of a solid foam core sandwiched between two sheets of OSB. The panels in a panelized home are premanufactured stick built panels. They have an exterior shear panel but are open inside. The owner builder builds the house shell with the panels but still has to insulate. Cost ComparisonIn general, a SIP kit is more expensive than a panelized home kit. This is something to consider. You will, however, have to insulate the panelized kit. This will offset the price disparity somewhat.Remember, this is "in general". It is important to shop around and get bids on ALL the materials you plan to use. You may find a quality manufacturer of structural insulated panels who can offer a product for less. That is the benefit of working hard during the bid process. Panelized Kits: It's IncludedA panelized kit has premanufactured wall panels that are built just as a regular framed home. They install more quickly and offer an open interior that is familiar to the rough trades. This will make for less hassles when it comes to interior rough out and finish.Some kit manufacturers include additional materials for the finish of the home. This could include, at no extra charge, windows, exterior doors, siding and roofing material. That can end up adding to the cost savings overall. Be sure to inquire about the total package. What is included? What is extra? Then you will be able to calculate which program offers the most value.
Panelized Kit PackagesTO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PANELIZED KIT HOME PROCESS CLICK HERE.SIPs Insulation ValuesSIPs have probably the highest R value of any building material. They are an R-6 to R-7 per inch. With a 2X4 wall, that’s a R 24-32. Most stick build walls average an R-11 to R-13.The difference is that the SIP core is entirely of foam. There is no reduction in R-value where a standard wall would have wood studs. There are no gaps, compressions or voids. The insulation is continuous. This makes for a home that is not only well insulated but is very tight. SIP homes are so tight that it is an absolute REQUIREMENT to have fresh air ventilation. Discuss this additional cost with your HVAC contractor.
Getting ApprovalsAnother difficulty an owner builder may encounter with SIP’s is that some municipalities still will not approve a Structural Insulated Panel home for construction. Structural insulated panels are gaining acceptance very quickly but the owner builder should definitely confirm acceptance when meeting with the local building department.Note: SIP's recently have been accepted into the International Building Code. It may be a challenge to find a framing contractor who has experience installing insulated panels. That won’t be an issue with a standard panelized home kit. Because the panels are simply remanufactured, stick framed, shear walls, any framing contractor will be able to build your panelized kit home.
Panelized Kits Are Easily ApprovedBecause a panelized home kit is stick framed, any jurisdiction in the country will approve your plans.Both Are CustomizablePanelized home kits, whether Structural insulated or stick built shear panel, are completely customizable. The kit provider can take the owner builder’s blueprint and manufacture the walls to make the home. The factories that build the panels use exacting measurements and equipment. This ensures a tight fit and a strong home.In addition, there are usually pre-designed floor plans from which a buyer can choose. This gives the owner builder options. Investigate all your options before choosing. Investigate costs, time, potential benefits and difficulties. The owner builder can build a quality home from SIP’s, Panels or standard stick frame. These are 3 paths to the same goal. Panelized Kit Home Information PagesHBN Kit HomesKit Home Program Kit Home Planning Kit Home 100% Financing Kit Home Models East Kit Home Models West Kit Home Package Information Request
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