When approaching jobs requiring the use of Isowall Insulated Panels, you must abide by some key handling, storage, and installation considerations to keep things from going awry. These structural insulated panels, or SIPs, allow you to reduce your construction time and job site waste while keeping costs under control. But that is only true if you use the right approach and avoid the most common pitfalls along the way. Here’s what you need to know.
Best Practices for Handling and Installation
With the right approach, Isowall Insulated Panels allow you to streamline your construction efforts and achieve your desired results. Use the following best practices to ensure all goes well with your next project using SIPs.
Store Panels Properly at All Times
When your SIPs arrive on the job site, you will need to ensure they are stored properly to prevent damage to their surfaces. Only lay them flat on a surface at least three inches from the ground in an area protected from the weather. Also, use two to three stickers spaced six feet apart at most to provide ample support.
Make Planning a Top Priority
Always carefully review the installation drawings before moving forward with the next steps. Careful planning will help ensure all panels are installed in the right order, preventing problems upon reaching corner sections.
Block All Airflow
In order to act as an excellent thermal performance system, SIPS need to have zero transfer of air or humidity around its edges. To accomplish that goal, you will need to thoroughly seal all the joints while ensuring they are still adequately vapor permeable. Refer to the local building codes to ensure vapor permeability while completing this process to prevent mold, mildew, and other issues.
Things to Avoid When Installing and Storing SIPs
Although there are not many pitfalls to consider when using Isowall Insulated Panels, the few on the books are well worth remembering. Here’s a look at some things to avoid when using SIPs for your project.
Be Mindful When Cutting SIPs to Fit
Although you should never be afraid to field-trim Isowall Insulated Panels to fit the space, care should be taken when making your cuts. When installing electrical wiring, for example, never cut the skins horizontally, as that can compromise its strength. For similar reasons, panels used for the roof or floor should not be cut without a discussion with the supplier.
Careful Not to Drop SIPs on the Corners
When handling Isowall Insulated Panels, you need to be careful to avoid dropping them on their corners. Lifting the panels by the top OSB facing is also ill-advised, as either action can compromise their strength and structural performance.
Never Install on Concrete Surfaces
No matter where you are installing SIPS, they should not have any direct contact with concrete. Instead, use a capillary break to keep the panel surface elevated away from the concrete materials.
As you take the right approach to using Isowall Insulated Panels and other SIPs, your construction projects will be easier to keep on deadline and well within your given budget. For assistance finding just the right materials for your projects, you can always rely on our team at Structural Panels Inc.