News Release 5/15/07
| For Immediate Release May 15, 2007 |
Contact: | Chris Schwind chris@sips.org 253.858.7472 |
Structural Insulated Panel Production Shows Strong Growth for 2006
Despite a declining housing market, structural insulated panel (SIP) production increased 6% in 2006, according to an annual survey by the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA). This follows a 12% increase in 2005 and a 9% increase in 2004, indicating strong and persistent development for an emerging building technology.
The survey queried all 67 known SIP manufacturers in the U.S. including two Canadian manufacturers. Housing construction declined in 2006 following two spectacular years when single-family unit starts peaked at 1.7 million. Single-family units built with SIPs decreased 16% in 2006 but maintained a steady 0.6% market share for single-family units, consistent with 2005.
Dwindling residential sales were countered with growth in the nonresidential construction market. SIP production for nonresidential buildings increased over 10 million sq. ft. in 2006. Nonresidential applications now account for 56% of all SIPs produced.
Structural insulated panels provide a high performance, sustainable building envelope for residential and nonresidential buildings. SIPs are primarily used in walls and roofs, with a small percentage used in floor applications. SIPs are also used in the construction of industrial coolers and refrigerated buildings due to their exceptional insulating qualities.
A variety of different materials are used for the structural facings on SIPs. Metal and oriented strand board (OSB) make up the majority of SIPs produced. Other materials, such as fiber cement board and gypsum wall board account for only 2% of SIPs produced in the U.S.
For more information on structural insulated panels, visit www.sips.org.
About SIPA
The Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) is a non-profit association representing manufacturers, suppliers, dealer/distributors, design professionals, and builders committed to providing quality structural insulated panels for all segments of the construction industry.
###
Looking for SIPs in
Your Area?
CLICK HERE…
Want to Build with SIPs?
Submit information on your next SIP project to contact SIPA members in your area.
