Structural Insulated Panels commonly called SIPs are a modern high performance building system used to construct walls roofs and floors. A SIP is essentially a rigid sandwich two layers of structural facing bonded to a continuous insulating core. The result is a single panel that is structurally strong extremely well insulated and remarkably airtight all in one component.
SIPs are manufactured in a factory to precise specifications and delivered to your job site ready to assemble. Unlike traditional stick framing which requires hundreds of individual studs headers sheathing and insulation batts to be cut nailed and coordinated on site SIP construction dramatically reduces build complexity and construction time while delivering a far superior finished product.
We specialize in SIP construction and are a certified EPS SIP dealer supplying and building with the highest quality expanded polystyrene core panels available. Whether you are planning a custom home a cabin an addition or a commercial structure SIPs offer advantages that traditional framing simply cannot match.
Not all SIP cores are the same. SIPs can be manufactured with polyurethane (PUR/PIR) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) cores. As a dedicated EPS SIP dealer, we supply and recommend EPS-core panels for most residential and light commercial applications.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, rigid foam made from polystyrene beads that are expanded with steam and then molded under pressure. You likely recognize it as the white foam used in coffee cups and product packaging — but structural-grade EPS is a far denser, engineered product designed specifically for building applications. EPS has been used in construction for over 50 years and has an exceptional long-term performance record.
The thermal resistance (R-value) of an EPS SIP panel increases with panel thickness. The following chart shows typical R-values for common panel sizes. Note that because EPS insulation is continuous — with no wood studs creating thermal bridges — the whole-wall R-value of a SIP is very close to the center-of-cavity R-value, which is not the case with stud-framed walls.
Note: R-values shown are approximate and represent the EPS core contribution. Final whole-wall R-value will include minor adjustments for OSB facing layers and spline connections. Actual panel availability may vary — contact us for current stock and custom sizing.
Building with SIPs follows a clear, efficient process from design to installation. Here is what the journey typically looks like when you build with us:
Your architectural plans are reviewed and adapted for SIP construction. Panel layout drawings are produced that show exactly how each panel will be cut, positioned, and connected. This step ensures that all structural requirements are met, openings are properly framed, and electrical chases are planned within the panels.
As your EPS SIP dealer, we source your panels from a manufacturing partner that produces panels to your exact specifications. Panels are cut with precision CNC equipment and arrive on-site clearly labeled and organized for installation sequence. Lead time is typically two to four weeks from final panel drawings
SIPs are installed on a conventional foundation slab, crawl space, or full basement with a pressure treated sill plate. The sill plate is carefully leveled and anchored, as the precision of the panel installation depends on a flat, square starting point.
Wall panels are lifted into position and connected using structural splines either lumber splines or SIP splines inserted into routed channels at panel edges. All joints are sealed with SIP specific tape and sealant to maintain the airtight envelope. An experienced SIP crew can erect the wall system for a typical home in one to two days.
SIP roof panels are installed on top of the wall system, spanning from ridge to eave with no attic insulation required. Roof panels provide the same continuous insulation and airtightness as the wall panels, and create a conditioned attic space that dramatically
improves whole-building energy performance.
Electrical wiring is routed through pre cut chases within the panels and through top and bottom plates. Because SIPs do not have hollow stud cavities, electrical planning must be done carefully at the design stage. Mechanical systems HVAC plumbing and ventilation are designed to complement the tight envelope.
SIP homes are finished like any other home, drywall on the interior, siding or cladding on the exterior. The flat, dimensionally stable surface of a SIP wall is actually easier to finish than conventional framing, which can bow or twist as green lumber dries.
As an EPS SIP dealer, we source panels at competitive pricing and pass that value along to our clients.
Our installation teams are trained specifically in SIP construction — not stick framers learning on the fly.
We manage the entire process from panel layout design through finished construction, so nothing falls through the cracks between supply and installation.
We build in this climate. We understand the thermal, moisture, and structural demands of building in northern Minnesota and detail our panels accordingly.
If you are managing your own build or working with another contractor, we can supply EPS SIP panels to your project. Contact us for dealer pricing and lead times.
