WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new study released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shows builders how to improve the durability and energy efficiency of their homes by combining structural insulated panel (SIPs) roof systems and concrete wall systems. The connection details and engineering provided in the study give builders a reliable and consistent method for connecting the two systems in one- and two-family dwellings.

The connection systems outlined in The Prescriptive Method for Connecting Structural Insulated Panel Roofs to Concrete Wall Systems fulfill the need for standardized connection systems between two increasingly popular materials for residential construction.

Funding for the study was provided by HUD’s Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing program that aims to break down the barriers for innovative housing technologies. Support for the development of the study was provided by the Structural Insulated Panel Assocaition (SIPA) and the Portland Cement Association (PCA).

“Through the specifications provided by this research, builders will be able to reduce costs while more easily building high-quality energy efficiency homes,” said Donn Thompson, AIA, PCA’s residential technology manager. “This truly collaborative effort brought together all the different concrete building system manufacturers with the SIP manufacturers to ensure all the practical solutions of the new technologies are addressed.”

In most cases, the new prescriptive guidelines will reduce the need for additional engineering during the design phase for projects using the two systems. This can often translate to lower costs for both builders and owners.

“When a licensed engineer is required to determine the appropriate connection system and approve the building plans, the cost is often passed on to the homeowner,” said Bill Wachtler, executive director of SIPA.  “This important document gives builders and design professionals the right connection systems that have been tested and engineered for most residential applications.”

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are a panelized building system consisting of a core of rigid foam insulation sandwiched between two facings, typically made of oriented strand board (OSB). SIPs are available as large as 8’ x 24’ and are extremely energy efficient, making them ideal for roofing applications.

The Prescriptive Method covers all types of concrete wall systems, including insulating concrete forms (ICF), concrete masonry, removable form systems, precast wall panels, and autoclaved aerated concrete products. ICFs and other concrete wall systems provide a high level of thermal resistance for an energy efficient building envelope. Plus, concrete wall systems form solid, continuous, and airtight walls that prevent heated or cooled air from leaking out, the main culprit of home energy loss.

Homes built in high wind or seismic zones are not covered in the Prescriptive Method.

Wachtler commented that the Prescriptive Method could be a growth driver for both the SIP and concrete industries.

“To make a complete energy efficient building envelope, you have to have well insulated walls, a well insulated roof, and an airtight connection between them,” said Wachtler.  “As energy cost continue rise and become a greater concern for homebuyers, the winning combination of these two energy-efficient technologies has a strong future in the residential market.”

For the complete Prescriptive Method, visit www.cement.org, www.sips.org, or www.huduser.org.