Debunking Rumors About Building with SIPS
At FischerSIPS, we often hear misconceptions about Structural Insulated Panels. These misunderstandings can discourage builders, architects, or homeowners from exploring an option that actually saves time, money, and energy. Here are seven of the most common myths we hear — and the facts that set the record straight
Myth #1: SIPs are way too expensive compared to stick framing.
Truth: The ‘cost’ of living in SIPS homes is less than a stick framed home if you compare a mortgage that is 5% higher combined with a 50% reduction in your energy bill vs a stick framed home. Why? Panels are pre-cut and assembled quickly, which reduces labor costs. Plus, homes built with SIPs are so energy-efficient that owners save on average 50% vs. fiberglass on heating and cooling bills every year. Over the life of the building, SIPs are an investment and will certainly pay for themselves.
Myth #2: SIPs aren’t strong enough for “real” construction.
Truth: SIPs are structurally engineered to be stronger than traditional framing in many cases. The solid foam core sandwiched between OSB creates a rigid, high-strength wall that can outperform stick framing. The additional OSB skin that you get with SIPS on the inside of your house, which is not common in stick framing, adds additional shear strength to your walls and roof. SIPS have been designed and reviewed by engineers to be stronger than your typical stick frame building. In fact, SIPs have been tested to withstand extreme weather events — making them a preferred choice in areas prone to high winds or storms.
Myth #3: SIPs limit design flexibility.
Truth: This is incorrect in that SIPs can give you MORE design flexibility due to large panels that can receive larger openings, long spans, and be cut into many different shapes with our 5 axis CNC. Architects and builders can create everything from modern homes with big open spaces to traditional farmhouses. Panels can be manufactured in large sizes which opens up more creative floor plans. Custom cuts and integration with other materials (stone, wood, brick) are completely possible.
Myth #4: SIPs trap moisture and cause mold problems.
Truth: We hear this one a lot, but it’s not true if your panels are installed correctly. SIPs provide a super tight building envelope that drastically reduces air leaks — which actually helps prevent moisture issues. With proper ventilation and building science practices, SIP homes are more comfortable and less prone to mold compared to regular homes, leading to far better indoor air quality..
Myth #5: SIPs are only for residential homes.
Truth: SIPs are used in a wide variety of buildings with different purposes. Their quick installation and energy efficiency make them attractive for commercial projects where budgets and timelines matter most. FischerSIPS panels have been used in diverse builds that prove SIPs aren’t just for houses — they’re for anyone who values durability and efficiency. SIPS have been used to build schools, churches, restaurants, strip malls, multi-family, warehouses, and many other types of light construction.
Myth #6: SIPs aren’t eco-friendly because they use foam.
Truth: SIPs actually reduce a building’s carbon footprint because of long-term energy savings and longer-lasting durability.
Myth #7: SIPs are hard to work with for builders.
Truth: SIPS make construction faster and easier. It is literally like building with large LEGOs. Because the panels are cut to size and shape with lumber pre-installed and all numbered individually, construction can be as easy as 1-2-3! While SIPS require paying attention to the details like sealing joints properly, they are NOT harder to work with.