Steel SIPs Combine Strength and Speed PATH Case Study

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Most panel sizes are conducive to easy transportation. Panels are also labeled according to placement to speed installation. Working with the inspector, manufacturer and supplier "We sometimes get strange looks when submitting plans showing steel SIP construction," Ballard says. "During the permit process, we combine product-testing information and project-specific design calculations to obtain approval from building department officials. Usually a structural engineer evaluates the project design and signs off on its structural efficacy. Since many building inspectors are unfamiliar with the panels, we have had to produce span charts to prove the product's structural capabilities. Even after our sixth project involving steel SIPs, we are still educating the inspectors about the advantages. The irony is that steel SIPs are actually stronger than many other building methods. "When choosing between different steel SIP systems, pick a manufacturing company that has engineering capabilities and can provide personal consultation and training during your first installation. It is crucial for the SIPs manufacturer to be able to provide panels for a building with the back-up engineering for building departments, building inspectors, architects and structural engineers who are not familiar with SIPs construction. "The way SIPs integrate with other building materials is another important consideration. Connection details involving the slab, roof panel, and exterior siding need to be clear and well-planned-out since every building component relates to another. You want a supplier of steel SIPs who has thought about these things. "Well-documented engineering and information outlining the properties and qualities associated with steel SIPs is essential but sometimes difficult to obtain. As a builder, you need documentation that will satisfy the structural and insulating requirements that building department officials are concerned with. We spend a lot of time working with building inspectors. Better documentation from manufacturers would make that easier." Scheduling, storage and transportation "When using our local supplier, we allow about a two- to three-week lead time," Ballard says. "If we were to use an out-of-state supplier, I would figure more like two months to avoid having a framing crew ready and waiting on panels." Technology highlights This project included the following PATH-profiled technologies: High performance glazing Panelized wall and roof systems Rainwater harvesting Solar water heating Structural insulated panels (SIPs) This article is provided courtesy of PATH. PREVIOUS  1 | 2 | 3 | 4