- Sonoma County, CA – Tubbs Fire: Reports indicate SIP homes with non-combustible cladding survived the blaze while nearby wood-framed homes burned. The tight SIP envelope and lack of venting reduced ember penetration and flame spread [11].
- New Zealand – Kaikoura Earthquake (2016): SIP structures in the quake zone sustained no major damage, while adjacent conventional buildings were severely impacted. Engineers cited SIPs’ racking strength and diaphragm performance [7].
- Habitat for Humanity SIP Pilot Projects: Across the U.S., SIP homes built for affordable housing initiatives have shown durability, reduced construction times, and lower utility bills for residents, even in high-humidity or storm-prone regions [5].
Conclusion
Structural Insulated Panels are not just an alternative to stick framing – they’re an upgrade. From hurricane winds in Florida to wildfires and earthquakes in California, SIPs provide superior resilience, energy performance, and occupant safety. The strength of SIPs lies not only in their materials but in their ability to meet and exceed the most demanding code requirements.
Builders working in high-risk regions can benefit from reduced labor time, faster inspections, simplified engineering, and long-term performance gains. Whether your next build is in a hurricane corridor or wildfire-prone hillside, SIPs provide a solid path toward more resilient, sustainable construction.
References
[1] SIPA – Structural Testing Overview: https://www.sips.org/resources/testing
[2] APA/ICC Seismic Shear Wall Testing Results: https://www.apawood.org/sips
[3] SIPA Hurricane Impact Testing: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-and-the-hurricane-impact-missile-test
[4] Green Builder Media – SIP Hurricane Case Study: https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/blog/a-hurricane-proof-sips-home
[5] Habitat SIP Builder Reports: https://www.habitat.org/impact/sheltertech/structural-insulated-panels
[6] ICC Evaluation Report ESR-4689: https://icc-es.org/report-listing/esr-4689/
[7] SIPA – Seismic Case Study in New Zealand: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-seismic-performance
[8] SIPA Fire Testing Summary: https://www.sips.org/blog/fire-testing-the-sip-building-envelope
[9] Southwest Research Institute SIP Fire Study: https://www.swri.org/technical-divisions/fire-technology
[10] Fire-Resistant Sonora SIP Housing: https://www.buildwithsips.org/sip-residential-projects/fire-resistant-homes-in-california/
[11] Post-Fire SIP Home Reports – Sonoma County: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/structural-insulated-panels-in-the-wildfire-zone
[12] Oak Ridge National Laboratory – SIP Energy Study: https://www.ornl.gov/news/study-shows-energy-savings-structural-insulated-panels
[13] IBHS Fortified Home Program: https://ibhs.org/fortified/
[14] Intertek – Fire-Rated SIP Assemblies: https://www.intertek.com/building/sip/
Real-World Case Studies
- Ramrod Key, FL – Hurricane Irma (2017): A SIP home designed for 200+ mph wind loads withstood Category 4 hurricane conditions with minimal damage. Its continuous envelope prevented breach or uplift, outperforming neighboring homes built to older codes [4].
- Sonora, CA – Wildfire-Resistant Housing: A development of SIP duplexes incorporated fire-resistant materials and airtight SIP construction. Homes met all California WUI codes and survived a regional wildfire event with no structural loss [10].
- Sonoma County, CA – Tubbs Fire: Reports indicate SIP homes with non-combustible cladding survived the blaze while nearby wood-framed homes burned. The tight SIP envelope and lack of venting reduced ember penetration and flame spread [11].
- New Zealand – Kaikoura Earthquake (2016): SIP structures in the quake zone sustained no major damage, while adjacent conventional buildings were severely impacted. Engineers cited SIPs’ racking strength and diaphragm performance [7].
- Habitat for Humanity SIP Pilot Projects: Across the U.S., SIP homes built for affordable housing initiatives have shown durability, reduced construction times, and lower utility bills for residents, even in high-humidity or storm-prone regions [5].
Conclusion
Structural Insulated Panels are not just an alternative to stick framing – they’re an upgrade. From hurricane winds in Florida to wildfires and earthquakes in California, SIPs provide superior resilience, energy performance, and occupant safety. The strength of SIPs lies not only in their materials but in their ability to meet and exceed the most demanding code requirements.
Builders working in high-risk regions can benefit from reduced labor time, faster inspections, simplified engineering, and long-term performance gains. Whether your next build is in a hurricane corridor or wildfire-prone hillside, SIPs provide a solid path toward more resilient, sustainable construction.
References
[1] SIPA – Structural Testing Overview: https://www.sips.org/resources/testing
[2] APA/ICC Seismic Shear Wall Testing Results: https://www.apawood.org/sips
[3] SIPA Hurricane Impact Testing: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-and-the-hurricane-impact-missile-test
[4] Green Builder Media – SIP Hurricane Case Study: https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/blog/a-hurricane-proof-sips-home
[5] Habitat SIP Builder Reports: https://www.habitat.org/impact/sheltertech/structural-insulated-panels
[6] ICC Evaluation Report ESR-4689: https://icc-es.org/report-listing/esr-4689/
[7] SIPA – Seismic Case Study in New Zealand: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-seismic-performance
[8] SIPA Fire Testing Summary: https://www.sips.org/blog/fire-testing-the-sip-building-envelope
[9] Southwest Research Institute SIP Fire Study: https://www.swri.org/technical-divisions/fire-technology
[10] Fire-Resistant Sonora SIP Housing: https://www.buildwithsips.org/sip-residential-projects/fire-resistant-homes-in-california/
[11] Post-Fire SIP Home Reports – Sonoma County: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/structural-insulated-panels-in-the-wildfire-zone
[12] Oak Ridge National Laboratory – SIP Energy Study: https://www.ornl.gov/news/study-shows-energy-savings-structural-insulated-panels
[13] IBHS Fortified Home Program: https://ibhs.org/fortified/
[14] Intertek – Fire-Rated SIP Assemblies: https://www.intertek.com/building/sip/
Real-World Case Studies
- Ramrod Key, FL – Hurricane Irma (2017): A SIP home designed for 200+ mph wind loads withstood Category 4 hurricane conditions with minimal damage. Its continuous envelope prevented breach or uplift, outperforming neighboring homes built to older codes [4].
- Sonora, CA – Wildfire-Resistant Housing: A development of SIP duplexes incorporated fire-resistant materials and airtight SIP construction. Homes met all California WUI codes and survived a regional wildfire event with no structural loss [10].
- Sonoma County, CA – Tubbs Fire: Reports indicate SIP homes with non-combustible cladding survived the blaze while nearby wood-framed homes burned. The tight SIP envelope and lack of venting reduced ember penetration and flame spread [11].
- New Zealand – Kaikoura Earthquake (2016): SIP structures in the quake zone sustained no major damage, while adjacent conventional buildings were severely impacted. Engineers cited SIPs’ racking strength and diaphragm performance [7].
- Habitat for Humanity SIP Pilot Projects: Across the U.S., SIP homes built for affordable housing initiatives have shown durability, reduced construction times, and lower utility bills for residents, even in high-humidity or storm-prone regions [5].
Conclusion
Structural Insulated Panels are not just an alternative to stick framing – they’re an upgrade. From hurricane winds in Florida to wildfires and earthquakes in California, SIPs provide superior resilience, energy performance, and occupant safety. The strength of SIPs lies not only in their materials but in their ability to meet and exceed the most demanding code requirements.
Builders working in high-risk regions can benefit from reduced labor time, faster inspections, simplified engineering, and long-term performance gains. Whether your next build is in a hurricane corridor or wildfire-prone hillside, SIPs provide a solid path toward more resilient, sustainable construction.
References
[1] SIPA – Structural Testing Overview: https://www.sips.org/resources/testing
[2] APA/ICC Seismic Shear Wall Testing Results: https://www.apawood.org/sips
[3] SIPA Hurricane Impact Testing: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-and-the-hurricane-impact-missile-test
[4] Green Builder Media – SIP Hurricane Case Study: https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/blog/a-hurricane-proof-sips-home
[5] Habitat SIP Builder Reports: https://www.habitat.org/impact/sheltertech/structural-insulated-panels
[6] ICC Evaluation Report ESR-4689: https://icc-es.org/report-listing/esr-4689/
[7] SIPA – Seismic Case Study in New Zealand: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-seismic-performance
[8] SIPA Fire Testing Summary: https://www.sips.org/blog/fire-testing-the-sip-building-envelope
[9] Southwest Research Institute SIP Fire Study: https://www.swri.org/technical-divisions/fire-technology
[10] Fire-Resistant Sonora SIP Housing: https://www.buildwithsips.org/sip-residential-projects/fire-resistant-homes-in-california/
[11] Post-Fire SIP Home Reports – Sonoma County: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/structural-insulated-panels-in-the-wildfire-zone
[12] Oak Ridge National Laboratory – SIP Energy Study: https://www.ornl.gov/news/study-shows-energy-savings-structural-insulated-panels
[13] IBHS Fortified Home Program: https://ibhs.org/fortified/
[14] Intertek – Fire-Rated SIP Assemblies: https://www.intertek.com/building/sip/
Code Compliance and Certifications
SIPs are recognized by all major U.S. model building codes. The International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) issues Evaluation Reports (e.g., ESR-4689) confirming SIP compliance with structural, fire, and thermal requirements for residential and commercial applications [6].
In Florida, SIP assemblies tested and approved for wind uplift, impact, and weather resistance appear on the Florida Product Approval database, with certification for HVHZ use [3]. In California, properly finished SIP systems meet Chapter 7A fire requirements and Title 24 energy provisions when designed accordingly.
FEMA’s guidance on safe room construction (P-361) references SIPs as viable structural systems capable of withstanding 250 mph winds and 100 mph debris impacts, meeting the ICC-500 criteria for tornado and hurricane shelters [4].
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) also includes SIPs in its FORTIFIED Home™ standard evaluations. SIP systems passed structural load testing and impact criteria, offering an eligible path toward FORTIFIED certification [13].
Fire testing by Intertek confirms SIP assemblies meet the NFPA 286 and ASTM E119 fire-resistance benchmarks, including rated assemblies up to two hours in some cases [14]. Thermal barrier requirements per NFPA 275 are met with standard 1/2″ gypsum board finishes on SIP interiors.
Real-World Case Studies
- Ramrod Key, FL – Hurricane Irma (2017): A SIP home designed for 200+ mph wind loads withstood Category 4 hurricane conditions with minimal damage. Its continuous envelope prevented breach or uplift, outperforming neighboring homes built to older codes [4].
- Sonora, CA – Wildfire-Resistant Housing: A development of SIP duplexes incorporated fire-resistant materials and airtight SIP construction. Homes met all California WUI codes and survived a regional wildfire event with no structural loss [10].
- Sonoma County, CA – Tubbs Fire: Reports indicate SIP homes with non-combustible cladding survived the blaze while nearby wood-framed homes burned. The tight SIP envelope and lack of venting reduced ember penetration and flame spread [11].
- New Zealand – Kaikoura Earthquake (2016): SIP structures in the quake zone sustained no major damage, while adjacent conventional buildings were severely impacted. Engineers cited SIPs’ racking strength and diaphragm performance [7].
- Habitat for Humanity SIP Pilot Projects: Across the U.S., SIP homes built for affordable housing initiatives have shown durability, reduced construction times, and lower utility bills for residents, even in high-humidity or storm-prone regions [5].
Conclusion
Structural Insulated Panels are not just an alternative to stick framing – they’re an upgrade. From hurricane winds in Florida to wildfires and earthquakes in California, SIPs provide superior resilience, energy performance, and occupant safety. The strength of SIPs lies not only in their materials but in their ability to meet and exceed the most demanding code requirements.
Builders working in high-risk regions can benefit from reduced labor time, faster inspections, simplified engineering, and long-term performance gains. Whether your next build is in a hurricane corridor or wildfire-prone hillside, SIPs provide a solid path toward more resilient, sustainable construction.
References
[1] SIPA – Structural Testing Overview: https://www.sips.org/resources/testing
[2] APA/ICC Seismic Shear Wall Testing Results: https://www.apawood.org/sips
[3] SIPA Hurricane Impact Testing: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-and-the-hurricane-impact-missile-test
[4] Green Builder Media – SIP Hurricane Case Study: https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/blog/a-hurricane-proof-sips-home
[5] Habitat SIP Builder Reports: https://www.habitat.org/impact/sheltertech/structural-insulated-panels
[6] ICC Evaluation Report ESR-4689: https://icc-es.org/report-listing/esr-4689/
[7] SIPA – Seismic Case Study in New Zealand: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-seismic-performance
[8] SIPA Fire Testing Summary: https://www.sips.org/blog/fire-testing-the-sip-building-envelope
[9] Southwest Research Institute SIP Fire Study: https://www.swri.org/technical-divisions/fire-technology
[10] Fire-Resistant Sonora SIP Housing: https://www.buildwithsips.org/sip-residential-projects/fire-resistant-homes-in-california/
[11] Post-Fire SIP Home Reports – Sonoma County: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/structural-insulated-panels-in-the-wildfire-zone
[12] Oak Ridge National Laboratory – SIP Energy Study: https://www.ornl.gov/news/study-shows-energy-savings-structural-insulated-panels
[13] IBHS Fortified Home Program: https://ibhs.org/fortified/
[14] Intertek – Fire-Rated SIP Assemblies: https://www.intertek.com/building/sip/
Hurricane Resistance (Florida)
In hurricane-prone areas such as Florida, SIPs offer a distinct advantage due to their structural integrity and reduced failure points. SIP wall panels create continuous shear walls that are inherently more resistant to lateral wind loads compared to stick-frame assemblies, which have more joints, fasteners, and pathways for failure.
The International Code Council (ICC) conducted missile impact testing in compliance with ASTM E1886 and E1996 protocols. A 9-pound 2×4 was launched at SIP wall assemblies at speeds simulating hurricane debris impact. The SIP walls, including those with 6.5-inch EPS cores and OSB skins, passed without penetration, demonstrating their eligibility for Florida Product Approval and compliance with High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) requirements [3].
This performance has translated to real-world resilience. In 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated parts of the Florida Keys. A SIP-built home in Ramrod Key, designed to withstand 200+ mph winds, remained intact while surrounding conventional homes suffered severe damage or total loss. The SIP structure experienced only cosmetic exterior issues [4].
Unlike stick-built walls that require additional hurricane strapping and anchoring to meet uplift and lateral load demands, SIP assemblies often require fewer connections due to their composite nature. Builders report faster inspections and fewer callbacks when using SIPs in wind zones because the product consistently meets uplift requirements when proper fastening schedules are followed [3][5].
Seismic Performance (California)
California’s seismic code compliance is among the strictest in the country. SIPs have been recognized in the International Residential Code (IRC) since 2007 under Section R610, with prescriptive design guidance for load-bearing and lateral bracing requirements [6]. Independent testing has confirmed that SIPs provide superior racking strength and ductility under cyclic lateral loading, often outperforming braced stud walls.
In seismic events such as the 2016 Kaikoura Earthquake in New Zealand (Magnitude 7.8), SIP homes built in accordance with local engineering guidelines came through nearly unscathed. One SIP house in the quake zone showed no signs of cracking or structural displacement, while neighboring traditional framed houses required demolition or major repair [7].
Builders in high seismic zones have found that SIPs reduce the need for complex bracing details and allow for simplified construction documents, as the panels themselves form part of the lateral force-resisting system. This can result in both labor and cost savings for engineered homes in earthquake-prone regions.
Fire Resistance and Wildfire Performance
Fire performance is critical in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones throughout California. SIPs have undergone rigorous testing, including ASTM E119 for fire endurance. In tests of typical SIP wall assemblies using 1/2-inch Type X gypsum board on the interior and a variety of claddings on the exterior, SIP walls achieved a 1-hour fire-resistance rating [8].
The EPS core used in most SIPs is treated with flame retardants and self-extinguishes when the flame source is removed. SIPs do not contribute to flame spread under standard fire exposure scenarios. A 2004 study by the Southwest Research Institute found that SIP walls subjected to flashover-level temperatures over 1000°C did not sustain internal flame spread. The panels charred on the surface, but the fire did not migrate through the core or framing [9].
In wildfire zones, SIPs have several passive advantages. Because SIP roofs are typically unvented, they eliminate one of the most vulnerable points for ember intrusion – attic vents. SIP walls are also free of cavities that can pull flame or hot gases through the envelope. Proper detailing, including non-combustible cladding and ember-resistant roofing, can elevate SIP structures to meet and exceed Chapter 7A WUI codes in California [10].
One notable project is the Sonora Fire-Resistant Housing Development, which includes 18 SIP duplex units constructed with fiber cement siding, metal roofing, fire sprinklers, and tempered glazing. The project met all California ignition-resistant construction requirements and was recognized for excellence in design and safety [10].
After the Tubbs Fire in Sonoma County, anecdotal reports noted that some SIP-built homes survived with minimal damage while nearby stick-framed homes were reduced to rubble. While finishes and defensible space played a role, the tight envelope and ember resistance of SIPs contributed to these outcomes [11].
Code Compliance and Certifications
SIPs are recognized by all major U.S. model building codes. The International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) issues Evaluation Reports (e.g., ESR-4689) confirming SIP compliance with structural, fire, and thermal requirements for residential and commercial applications [6].
In Florida, SIP assemblies tested and approved for wind uplift, impact, and weather resistance appear on the Florida Product Approval database, with certification for HVHZ use [3]. In California, properly finished SIP systems meet Chapter 7A fire requirements and Title 24 energy provisions when designed accordingly.
FEMA’s guidance on safe room construction (P-361) references SIPs as viable structural systems capable of withstanding 250 mph winds and 100 mph debris impacts, meeting the ICC-500 criteria for tornado and hurricane shelters [4].
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) also includes SIPs in its FORTIFIED Home™ standard evaluations. SIP systems passed structural load testing and impact criteria, offering an eligible path toward FORTIFIED certification [13].
Fire testing by Intertek confirms SIP assemblies meet the NFPA 286 and ASTM E119 fire-resistance benchmarks, including rated assemblies up to two hours in some cases [14]. Thermal barrier requirements per NFPA 275 are met with standard 1/2″ gypsum board finishes on SIP interiors.
Real-World Case Studies
- Ramrod Key, FL – Hurricane Irma (2017): A SIP home designed for 200+ mph wind loads withstood Category 4 hurricane conditions with minimal damage. Its continuous envelope prevented breach or uplift, outperforming neighboring homes built to older codes [4].
- Sonora, CA – Wildfire-Resistant Housing: A development of SIP duplexes incorporated fire-resistant materials and airtight SIP construction. Homes met all California WUI codes and survived a regional wildfire event with no structural loss [10].
- Sonoma County, CA – Tubbs Fire: Reports indicate SIP homes with non-combustible cladding survived the blaze while nearby wood-framed homes burned. The tight SIP envelope and lack of venting reduced ember penetration and flame spread [11].
- New Zealand – Kaikoura Earthquake (2016): SIP structures in the quake zone sustained no major damage, while adjacent conventional buildings were severely impacted. Engineers cited SIPs’ racking strength and diaphragm performance [7].
- Habitat for Humanity SIP Pilot Projects: Across the U.S., SIP homes built for affordable housing initiatives have shown durability, reduced construction times, and lower utility bills for residents, even in high-humidity or storm-prone regions [5].
Conclusion
Structural Insulated Panels are not just an alternative to stick framing – they’re an upgrade. From hurricane winds in Florida to wildfires and earthquakes in California, SIPs provide superior resilience, energy performance, and occupant safety. The strength of SIPs lies not only in their materials but in their ability to meet and exceed the most demanding code requirements.
Builders working in high-risk regions can benefit from reduced labor time, faster inspections, simplified engineering, and long-term performance gains. Whether your next build is in a hurricane corridor or wildfire-prone hillside, SIPs provide a solid path toward more resilient, sustainable construction.
References
[1] SIPA – Structural Testing Overview: https://www.sips.org/resources/testing
[2] APA/ICC Seismic Shear Wall Testing Results: https://www.apawood.org/sips
[3] SIPA Hurricane Impact Testing: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-and-the-hurricane-impact-missile-test
[4] Green Builder Media – SIP Hurricane Case Study: https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/blog/a-hurricane-proof-sips-home
[5] Habitat SIP Builder Reports: https://www.habitat.org/impact/sheltertech/structural-insulated-panels
[6] ICC Evaluation Report ESR-4689: https://icc-es.org/report-listing/esr-4689/
[7] SIPA – Seismic Case Study in New Zealand: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-seismic-performance
[8] SIPA Fire Testing Summary: https://www.sips.org/blog/fire-testing-the-sip-building-envelope
[9] Southwest Research Institute SIP Fire Study: https://www.swri.org/technical-divisions/fire-technology
[10] Fire-Resistant Sonora SIP Housing: https://www.buildwithsips.org/sip-residential-projects/fire-resistant-homes-in-california/
[11] Post-Fire SIP Home Reports – Sonoma County: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/structural-insulated-panels-in-the-wildfire-zone
[12] Oak Ridge National Laboratory – SIP Energy Study: https://www.ornl.gov/news/study-shows-energy-savings-structural-insulated-panels
[13] IBHS Fortified Home Program: https://ibhs.org/fortified/
[14] Intertek – Fire-Rated SIP Assemblies: https://www.intertek.com/building/sip/
By this point, builders familiar with SIPs are aware of the energy-efficiency benefits that using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) can bring. Due to continuous insulation and minimal thermal bridging, SIP-built homes were found to have 15 times less air leakage than comparable stick-framed homes [12].
But another advantage of SIPs that is talked about less frequently is the structural strength and durability that makes it a better choice in hurricane and earthquake-prone areas. Additionally, SIPs have been shown to be a good choice in areas prone to wildfires.This blog explores how SIPs perform in fire and hurricane scenarios, with a focus on regions like Florida and California. We’ll compare SIPs to traditional framing, highlight how they meet or exceed building codes (FEMA, ICC, NFPA), and draw from lab testing, real-world case studies, and builder insights to demonstrate the resilience of SIPs.
Structural Strength and Durability
The monolithic nature of SIP construction contributes to exceptional strength. Unlike stick framing, which consists of dimensional lumber spaced 16 or 24 inches apart and relies on separate sheathing and insulation, SIPs act as a unified diaphragm that distributes loads across the entire panel surface [1]. This results in increased racking resistance and bending stiffness. In seismic simulations, SIP assemblies outperform traditional wood-frame shear walls in ductility and energy dissipation [2].
Testing by APA – The Engineered Wood Association – and the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) demonstrates that SIP walls achieve higher ultimate load capacities under shear than conventionally framed counterparts with similar wall thickness [1]. Builders in high seismic zones have successfully used SIPs to meet and exceed requirements in Seismic Design Categories D, E, and F [2]. SIPs are also lighter per square foot than many equivalent wall systems, reducing mass without compromising strength.
Hurricane Resistance (Florida)
In hurricane-prone areas such as Florida, SIPs offer a distinct advantage due to their structural integrity and reduced failure points. SIP wall panels create continuous shear walls that are inherently more resistant to lateral wind loads compared to stick-frame assemblies, which have more joints, fasteners, and pathways for failure.
The International Code Council (ICC) conducted missile impact testing in compliance with ASTM E1886 and E1996 protocols. A 9-pound 2×4 was launched at SIP wall assemblies at speeds simulating hurricane debris impact. The SIP walls, including those with 6.5-inch EPS cores and OSB skins, passed without penetration, demonstrating their eligibility for Florida Product Approval and compliance with High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) requirements [3].
This performance has translated to real-world resilience. In 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated parts of the Florida Keys. A SIP-built home in Ramrod Key, designed to withstand 200+ mph winds, remained intact while surrounding conventional homes suffered severe damage or total loss. The SIP structure experienced only cosmetic exterior issues [4].
Unlike stick-built walls that require additional hurricane strapping and anchoring to meet uplift and lateral load demands, SIP assemblies often require fewer connections due to their composite nature. Builders report faster inspections and fewer callbacks when using SIPs in wind zones because the product consistently meets uplift requirements when proper fastening schedules are followed [3][5].
Seismic Performance (California)
California’s seismic code compliance is among the strictest in the country. SIPs have been recognized in the International Residential Code (IRC) since 2007 under Section R610, with prescriptive design guidance for load-bearing and lateral bracing requirements [6]. Independent testing has confirmed that SIPs provide superior racking strength and ductility under cyclic lateral loading, often outperforming braced stud walls.
In seismic events such as the 2016 Kaikoura Earthquake in New Zealand (Magnitude 7.8), SIP homes built in accordance with local engineering guidelines came through nearly unscathed. One SIP house in the quake zone showed no signs of cracking or structural displacement, while neighboring traditional framed houses required demolition or major repair [7].
Builders in high seismic zones have found that SIPs reduce the need for complex bracing details and allow for simplified construction documents, as the panels themselves form part of the lateral force-resisting system. This can result in both labor and cost savings for engineered homes in earthquake-prone regions.
Fire Resistance and Wildfire Performance
Fire performance is critical in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones throughout California. SIPs have undergone rigorous testing, including ASTM E119 for fire endurance. In tests of typical SIP wall assemblies using 1/2-inch Type X gypsum board on the interior and a variety of claddings on the exterior, SIP walls achieved a 1-hour fire-resistance rating [8].
The EPS core used in most SIPs is treated with flame retardants and self-extinguishes when the flame source is removed. SIPs do not contribute to flame spread under standard fire exposure scenarios. A 2004 study by the Southwest Research Institute found that SIP walls subjected to flashover-level temperatures over 1000°C did not sustain internal flame spread. The panels charred on the surface, but the fire did not migrate through the core or framing [9].
In wildfire zones, SIPs have several passive advantages. Because SIP roofs are typically unvented, they eliminate one of the most vulnerable points for ember intrusion – attic vents. SIP walls are also free of cavities that can pull flame or hot gases through the envelope. Proper detailing, including non-combustible cladding and ember-resistant roofing, can elevate SIP structures to meet and exceed Chapter 7A WUI codes in California [10].
One notable project is the Sonora Fire-Resistant Housing Development, which includes 18 SIP duplex units constructed with fiber cement siding, metal roofing, fire sprinklers, and tempered glazing. The project met all California ignition-resistant construction requirements and was recognized for excellence in design and safety [10].
After the Tubbs Fire in Sonoma County, anecdotal reports noted that some SIP-built homes survived with minimal damage while nearby stick-framed homes were reduced to rubble. While finishes and defensible space played a role, the tight envelope and ember resistance of SIPs contributed to these outcomes [11].
Code Compliance and Certifications
SIPs are recognized by all major U.S. model building codes. The International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) issues Evaluation Reports (e.g., ESR-4689) confirming SIP compliance with structural, fire, and thermal requirements for residential and commercial applications [6].
In Florida, SIP assemblies tested and approved for wind uplift, impact, and weather resistance appear on the Florida Product Approval database, with certification for HVHZ use [3]. In California, properly finished SIP systems meet Chapter 7A fire requirements and Title 24 energy provisions when designed accordingly.
FEMA’s guidance on safe room construction (P-361) references SIPs as viable structural systems capable of withstanding 250 mph winds and 100 mph debris impacts, meeting the ICC-500 criteria for tornado and hurricane shelters [4].
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) also includes SIPs in its FORTIFIED Home™ standard evaluations. SIP systems passed structural load testing and impact criteria, offering an eligible path toward FORTIFIED certification [13].
Fire testing by Intertek confirms SIP assemblies meet the NFPA 286 and ASTM E119 fire-resistance benchmarks, including rated assemblies up to two hours in some cases [14]. Thermal barrier requirements per NFPA 275 are met with standard 1/2″ gypsum board finishes on SIP interiors.
Real-World Case Studies
- Ramrod Key, FL – Hurricane Irma (2017): A SIP home designed for 200+ mph wind loads withstood Category 4 hurricane conditions with minimal damage. Its continuous envelope prevented breach or uplift, outperforming neighboring homes built to older codes [4].
- Sonora, CA – Wildfire-Resistant Housing: A development of SIP duplexes incorporated fire-resistant materials and airtight SIP construction. Homes met all California WUI codes and survived a regional wildfire event with no structural loss [10].
- Sonoma County, CA – Tubbs Fire: Reports indicate SIP homes with non-combustible cladding survived the blaze while nearby wood-framed homes burned. The tight SIP envelope and lack of venting reduced ember penetration and flame spread [11].
- New Zealand – Kaikoura Earthquake (2016): SIP structures in the quake zone sustained no major damage, while adjacent conventional buildings were severely impacted. Engineers cited SIPs’ racking strength and diaphragm performance [7].
- Habitat for Humanity SIP Pilot Projects: Across the U.S., SIP homes built for affordable housing initiatives have shown durability, reduced construction times, and lower utility bills for residents, even in high-humidity or storm-prone regions [5].
Conclusion
Structural Insulated Panels are not just an alternative to stick framing – they’re an upgrade. From hurricane winds in Florida to wildfires and earthquakes in California, SIPs provide superior resilience, energy performance, and occupant safety. The strength of SIPs lies not only in their materials but in their ability to meet and exceed the most demanding code requirements.
Builders working in high-risk regions can benefit from reduced labor time, faster inspections, simplified engineering, and long-term performance gains. Whether your next build is in a hurricane corridor or wildfire-prone hillside, SIPs provide a solid path toward more resilient, sustainable construction.
References
[1] SIPA – Structural Testing Overview: https://www.sips.org/resources/testing
[2] APA/ICC Seismic Shear Wall Testing Results: https://www.apawood.org/sips
[3] SIPA Hurricane Impact Testing: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-and-the-hurricane-impact-missile-test
[4] Green Builder Media – SIP Hurricane Case Study: https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/blog/a-hurricane-proof-sips-home
[5] Habitat SIP Builder Reports: https://www.habitat.org/impact/sheltertech/structural-insulated-panels
[6] ICC Evaluation Report ESR-4689: https://icc-es.org/report-listing/esr-4689/
[7] SIPA – Seismic Case Study in New Zealand: https://www.sips.org/blog/sips-seismic-performance
[8] SIPA Fire Testing Summary: https://www.sips.org/blog/fire-testing-the-sip-building-envelope
[9] Southwest Research Institute SIP Fire Study: https://www.swri.org/technical-divisions/fire-technology
[10] Fire-Resistant Sonora SIP Housing: https://www.buildwithsips.org/sip-residential-projects/fire-resistant-homes-in-california/
[11] Post-Fire SIP Home Reports – Sonoma County: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/structural-insulated-panels-in-the-wildfire-zone
[12] Oak Ridge National Laboratory – SIP Energy Study: https://www.ornl.gov/news/study-shows-energy-savings-structural-insulated-panels
[13] IBHS Fortified Home Program: https://ibhs.org/fortified/
[14] Intertek – Fire-Rated SIP Assemblies: https://www.intertek.com/building/sip/