SIP Installation

Proper installation of the SIP envelope is essential to ensure the system benefits of airtightness and energy efficiency. The SIP industry has developed these guidelines to help ensure high-quality installation.

• General Do's and Don'ts for Handling and Installing SIPs – 2 pages of top tips
• Building with SIPs: NEED TO KNOW – 20-page document, with 10 building considerations and checklists to help reduce the builder's learning curve and achieve high-performance building with SIPs
• Builder's Guide to Structural Insulated Panels – comprehensive 332-page illustrated manual addressing all phases of SIP design and construction. Co-written by SIP industry engineering experts and building scientist Joseph Lstiburek

SIP Connection Details

Click here to download the full set of 27 SIP Connection Details. These drawings are provided by SIPA in collaboration with SIP experts to provide an accepted industry baseline standard.  Follow your SIP manufacturer’s technical drawings, specifications and installation instructions to ensure quality and avoid voiding any manufacturer warranties or guarantees.

Included among the diagrams:

• Foundation Connections
• Wall-to-Wall Panel Connections
• Roof-to-Wall Panel Connections
• Roof-to-Roof Panel Connections
• 2nd Floor Connection Details
• Eaves Detailing
• Door and Window Framing

Top Tips for SIP Building Systems

• HVAC: Don't oversize. The airtight SIP building envelope means smaller HVAC equipment. Click here for an explanation of why SIP structures need mechanical ventilation.
• Plumbing: Design and install plumbing in interior walls.
• Electric: Simplify the electric wiring job with electrical chases within the panels as provided by the SIP manufacturer.

Retrofit Insulated Panels (Nailbase)

Retrofit insulated panels, also called nailbase or nailbase panels, are a special type of panel offered by most SIP manufacturers. Retrofit panels are like SIPs but with an OSB facing on only one side of the panel. The panels are attached externally to make older structures more energy-efficient. Click below for nailbase installation guidelines and case studies.

For More on Retrofit Insulated Panels

More Installation Resources

• Training. Review options on our Builder Education page.
• Magazine Article. To Tape, or Not to Tape
• Installation Videos. The Builder Education page links to instructional videos on specific topics such as Integrating Mechanical Systems and SIP Site Planning. In addition, the websites of SIPA Member Manufacturers provide videos on specific technical aspects of SIP construction.