Exceeding the Strictest Energy Codes with SIPs

March 10, 2015

Happily, some areas are taking formal steps to increase energy efficiency and ultimately save homeowners money. While some builders struggle to meet the stricter energy codes with the same methods they’ve used for decades, others like Paul Tyrer, owner of Expert Handyman Services, Inc., in Traverse City, Michigan, are willing to try new strategies like SIPs to improve air tightness and lower utility bills.

Paul started with 2 x 6 construction with cellulose insulation blown into the walls. When Michigan adopted the stricter 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), he looked for a more energy-efficient method.

The 1,400 square foot home built by Paul using Thermocore Structural Insulated Panels tested at 1.98 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals—“much better than the current code requires and twice as good as the [new] code will require,” according to the home’s blower door test report.

Now Paul is building more homes with SIPs so he won’t have to worry about meeting Michigan’s new IECC requirements. And why not! Paul said he can finish construction faster. Plus, “There was no added cost to using Thermocore Structural Insulated Panels,” he said.

Those who keep doing the same thing get the same results. Don’t wait until you’re required to conserve energy; start saving money now with Structural Insulated Panels.

Learn more about Paul's New Home/Residential Project.