Sunview Enterprise has been focused on green building since its inception. For us, Green Building is more than highly efficient appliances or recycled materials. We take a holistic approach to home building and renovation, looking at the house as a system, and concentrating on the following three areas: Energy efficiency, Durability and functionality, Resource efficiency

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Structural Insulated Panels
by Sunview Enterprise

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Additions built with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are engineered to be stronger and more energy efficient than conventiional built additions.

The benefits of building with SIPS are many. They provide superior R-values, they can reduce energy bills by as much as 50%, and they reduce HVAC costs by down-sizing units to meet optimal performance needs. SIPS structures create a high-performance building, use up to 30% less wood, create less waste, reduce the need for skilled labor, provide for a healthier living environment, and help reduce dry-in time by 1-3 weeks. Finally, under testing, SIPS are more than twice as strong as a conventional frame structure, they perform well seismically, and do not warp, rack, or twist.

Energy use and thermal efficiency are two of the anchor points of a -green- building. Homes that use less energy and generate less carbon dioxide emissions leave a smaller carbon footprint. When building with SIPS, everyone comes out a winner, including our environment.

THINK GREEN!

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Build Your Dream Addition and Keep it Green Using Structual Insulated Panels by Sunview Specialties

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Structural Properties

SIPs share the same structural properties as an I-Beam or I-Column. The rigid EPS insulation at the core of a SIP acts as the web, while the OSB sheathing exhibits the same properties as the flanges.

Load-Bearing Properties

In conventional construction, loads are distributed or carried along studs and joist, typically at 16" on center. Loads for SIPs are distributed across the entire panel, allowing greater loads. SIPs walls can withstand loads from 3 to 7 times higher than conventional wall framing.


2x wall framing	SIPs wall

Building Codes

Insulation is a major topic covered by building codes, which specify the minimum R-value that various parts of the house must meet during cold conditions. For example, walls might require an R-19 insulation and ceiling, an R-38 insulation.

Insulation and R-Values

Fiberglass insulation is based on the principle of trapped air. Unfortunately, its open cells don't trap air very well.

Fiberglass insulation consists primarily of air trapped between strands of molten glass, as seen under a microscope at 10x. It is an Open Cell insulation, since the air pockets are not fully enclosed and air can enter and escape the system freely.
In comparison, the EPS used in SIPs is a Closed Cell insulation. Air within the system is permanently trapped, giving the EPS its rigidity and preventing any air or moisture leakage whatsoever.

Mold thrives when three factors are present inside wall cavities: air circulation, moisture, and a food source. All three factors are typically found in a fiberglass insulated exterior walls. Of the three, moisture is by far the most significant factor leading to mold. That's why building codes require the installation of a vapor barrier. A vapor barrier is any material that stops passage of moisture through the walls. Unfortunately, vapor barriers commonly used only act as a vapor retarder, slowing moisture down, but never stopping it. The typical 6-mil poly vapor barrier is stapled to the existing wall and is punctured by drywall screws and torn for electrical receptacles. The integrity of the barrier is compromised, and it now becomes a vapor retarder.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory Study

This agency of the U.S. Department of Energy conducted an in depth study of insulation behavior and thermodynamics in a common residential attic construction.

Conclusion:

EPS insulation R-Value remained constant throughout winter temperatures.
Fiberglass insulation R-value decreased by 50% in winter conditions. Therefore, R-38 fiberglass insulation decreases to as low as r-19 during winter conditions.