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Things to keep in mind when you receive your estimate and in using when "comparing" to a traditional stick frame home....Yes...you may be able to build "cheaper" with sticks. A structural insulated panel package MAY cost a little more than a traditional house but there are a lot of factors that go into that comparison. Is the comparable stick house using quality materials and insulation that meet energy star standards or is it just thrown together as some builder's prefer?We have done the math over and over with many different scenarios and we have not found a better value for the investment of building with SIPS. If your building cost is $150,000 and you choose to invest an additional 3% to 5% for structural insulated panels, your payment would change by an additional $27 to $45 per month. You WILL save at least this much in your monthly payments due to the energy savings. In addition you will have a much stronger structure, increased air quality, increased sound quality (quiet environment), enjoy consistent temperatures throughout the entire house (try accomplishing that in a stick house), AND you can do your part to help with the environment because structural insulated panels are one of the most environmentally responsible building systems available! Other points when comparing:
- The shell is "dried in" much faster, less labor costs and construction interest.
- Job site items can be secured and greatly reduce items that "walk away."
- Less job site waste, reduces time and cost of disposal.
- Sub-contractors are able to complete their tasks more efficiently because a structural insulated panel system is straight and true, no need to make modifications as you go. Sub contractors are usually happier because they are working in a controlled environment and not exposed to all the elements.
- Insulation contractor can be eliminated when choosing a complete wall and roof package.
- HVAC systems can and SHOULD be downsized reducing costs.
- Stick Framing Construction will have “thermal bridging” and energy loss regardless of what type of insulation is installed. Some people are misled by claims of an R-Value of 30 or more. SIP walls create a whole wall R-Value because there are no studs.
I have had individuals call and say that they compared the cost of their lumber package to the cost quoted to them for a structural insulated panel package. They want to know how to calculate the difference. Some points to consider:
- When you get your lumber package from the lumberyard, you will receive a stack of sticks. In our experience, not all will be usable, some are not straight and will need to be returned for exchange. They will require a multi-person crew to take these sticks, unless they are working for free, the cost of labor to assemble the sticks will need to be added to the cost of the lumber package. When you receive a structural insulated panel package estimate, the exterior walls and roof panels are pre-assembled.
- When building with sticks you will also have to add the cost of the insulation and the cost of the insulation contractor for the labor to add the insulation. When you receive a structural insulated panel package estimate, wall and roof insulation is included in the estimate. This insulation will not sink, shrink or deteriorate. It is also not itchy (if you have ever been in the attic like I have)!
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN COMPARING PANEL PROVIDERS AND ESTIMATES:
- How long have they been in business? How much experience? While the transition to panels as it relates to carpentry skills is relatively simple, there are some "tips and tricks" that "panel people" can share.
- What does the estimate include? Panel structures require some lumber including materials to use for bottom plate, sill plate, panel splines and header material for windows are doors. Structural beams are also required depending on the design of the structure. Some of our customers want all of this included, the whole package deal. Other customers want to acquire it locally. We like to work with each individual case for whatever YOU prefer. Just check when comparing estimates as to the "lumber and beam" package. It is difficult to arrive at an exact number unless detailed floor plans are provided. Most providers will give you an educated guess and will firm up at a later date.
- Are drawings included? Is installation included? Is consulting included? These are all options that can be added "ala carte" to meet specific needs and requests.
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