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5.0 out of 5 stars Just what I was looking for, November 28, 2002
Hcole1 from Rockwell, TX said:
"This book filled every expectation and more. I am a builder looking to possibly transition to SIPs. This book answered all my questions and some I hadn't thought of yet. If you are a builder looking to start using SIPs, buy this book."

5.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive new book to cover emerging building technology, October 13, 2000
Another customer said:

"While SIPs have been around for 60 years, the author believes the time is now for explosive growth of this technique for residential and commercial buildings.

The book covers all steps in the fabrication and assembly of SIP panels and buildings in a way that isn't overly technical. The emphasis is for professionals, and indeed SIPs present a challenge to the do-it yourselfer since some of the panel elements are so large a crane or forklift is essential. SIP building as presented, however, seems very simple, and otherwise suited to self-builders. In essence each panel when complete can stand in for many other elements: the studs, plates, the sheathing , insulation, vapor barrier, fasteners, plumbing and electrical chases, and interior rough or finished surfaces.

The book gives lots of information on different SIP types, and tools.

The book covers structural panels almost exclusively, in other words the similar panels used for timber frames etc..., which are not load-bearing are addressed, but are not the subject of this book.
My only disappointment is that as an amateur builder the book doesn't deal with that aspect of the subject at all. The field is relatively unfriendly to non-commercial participants. SIPs are relatively hard to find in small quantities, and even though the process is simpler that stud building, for instance, they don't want to deal with you but your architect. Not the book's fault.

The author seems a sincere advocate for SIPs, if at times a little closed to other alternatives, which would present less of a cultural, financial, or technical barrier to the average buyer or user. I'd like to believe him, but so far SIPs haven't made an appearance at the local Home Depot. Most people have hammered a nail into a 2x4, but your going to have to buy into this system sight unseen, unless the SIP industry gets a little more democratic about its distribution.

This book was probably a three star or four star effort for me, given my focus, but fully five star for the intended audience: Contractors stepping up to the system for the first time."

The SIPs industry is poised to make a significant difference in the way people construct the buildings they live and work in. Building with Structural Insulated Panels is the indispensable reference for anyone who wants to work with this innovative, field-tested construction system."

 

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