Question 1

What is a Structural Insulated Panel (“SIP”)?

Accepted Answer

A structural insulated panel (“SIP”) is a high-performance manufactured building component consisting of a layer of rigid insulation sandwiched between two layers of structural sheathing.  SIPs can be used for many different applications, such as exterior wall, roof, floor, and foundation systems. SIPs replace several components of a conventional building envelope, such as studs, insulation, vapor barrier and air barrier.

• OMC decided to utilize Plywood as our preferred sheathing due to its higher performance value, such as excellent nail pull-out strength and structural qualities (for simple installation of exterior siding etc.)

Question 2

What are the Benefits of Building with SIPs?

Accepted Answer

Rapid Construction: Building with SIPs allows the building to be assembled much faster, significantly reducing the time taken to achieve Lock-Up.   
In our experience, a typical residential SIP project (~1500 sq/ft) can have the envelope installed and ready to receive the roof in a single day.

Structural Strength: SIPs have been shown to be up to 7 times stronger than a residential stick-frame built structure.  This provides the building exceptional structural strength and allows it to withstand extreme climates and harsh weather conditions. SIPs have similar structural characteristics to steel I-Beams. The sheathing skins act as the flange of the I-beam, while the rigid foam core provides the web.

Excellent Thermal Performance: A SIP building envelope provides superior insulation and air tightness, which reduces energy consumption. SIP structures typically perform around 50% more efficiently, compared to traditional timber framing. SIP building envelopes have minimal thermal bridging and deliver excellent air tightness and air quality.  This lends itself ideally to meet energy efficient building standards.

Provides a Vapour and Air Barrier: SIPs provide a code compliant vapour barrier. SIP homes have routinely tested two to three times more airtight than timber stick-frame homes with fiberglass insulation.  Air infiltration can cause more problems than just higher utility bills. Air that passes through fiberglass insulation often carries moisture, which can cause unseen mold growth in wall cavities and overall poor indoor air quality that can lead to health problems for occupants.

Design Flexibility:  SIPs can be engineered to suit virtually any building, allowing clients and architects flexibility in their design.

Sound Proofing:  Due to the rigid insulation used, SIPs have superior sound absorption properties.

Environmentally Friendly: SIPs are highly energy efficient.  This reduces the amount of energy needed for the HVAC system, and this contributes positively to the environment by reducing CO2 levels from HVAC use.  SIP manufacturing uses significantly less energy during the manufacturing process compared to traditional construction methods such as steel, concrete and masonry. Using SIPs also generates far less construction waste.

Question 3

Why choose OMC?

Accepted Answer

Our automated manufacturing process ensures precise and consistent panels with the capacity to fill large orders efficiently. OMC maintains a large inventory of all panel components.

OMC SIPs are manufactured utilizing superior materials, such as engineered fasteners and SIP specific sealants.

OMC can build Jumbo Walls up to 32’ by 12’, which allows even faster install.

Let us show you how building with OMC SIPs will save you time, money, and labor.

Frequently Asked Questions