Structural Design

Structural Design

The strength of the panel is in its composite nature — in the same way that plywood is stronger than solid timber. The OSB itself is strong, but when pressure injected with polyurethane closed cell foam (as opposed to relying on a bonding agent), it can be up to six times as strong as regular timber frame.

SIPs can support concrete floors — the abutment of the head of the panel is reinforced with a simple metal angle screwed to it, to cope with the load distribution. However, Structuralinsulatedpanels (SIP)  buildings use engineered beams – I beams or glulam – as they are faster and easier to handle. It’s important that the floor decking be taken to the outer edge of the SIP, as the floor forms a structural diaphragm for the building. SIPs are beginning to be used for three storey houses without problems and can also be used as external (non structural) walling on multi-storey buildings, wrapped around a steel or concrete frame.The key part of the foundation system for SIPs is getting the sole plate right. It must be level with only a tolerence of +-5 to ensure the SIP structure proceeds smoothly. Don’t forget that you can also use the roof and wall elements as standalones — one particularly effective solution is a Structuralinsulatedpanels (SIP)  "Room in a Roof "with a blockwork wall.