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Structural insulated panels: Impact on the residential construction process

Mullens, MA; Arif, M

Authors

MA Mullens

M Arif



Abstract

Uncertainty and risk have contributed to the reluctance of U.S. homebuilders to embrace new construction technologies. This paper explores one innovative, but underutilized building technology, structural insulated panels (SIPs), and its impact on the residential construction process. The paper presents findings from a side-by-side case study of the construction of two Habitat for Humanity homes, one SIP and one conventional wood-framing. Although the study focuses on labor productivity and cycle time during framing, other key construction performance metrics are assessed including worker safety, quality/workmanship, material waste, worker skill levels, and equipment requirements. Findings indicate that SIPs saved about two-thirds of the site framing labor for walls and roofs, with cycle time savings of similar magnitude. No significant impacts on other construction performance metrics were observed, however, size of the panels did require a lift truck and construction crane. While conclusions are limited by the scope of the case study, the writers believe that building with SIPs can be very efficient. The paper identifies key actions required of builders and SIP manufacturers to maximize potential benefits.

Citation

Mullens, M., & Arif, M. (2006). Structural insulated panels: Impact on the residential construction process. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 132(7), 786-794. https://doi.org/10.1061/%28ASCE%290733-9364%282006%29132%3A7%28786%29

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Jan 1, 2006
Deposit Date Aug 17, 2015
Journal Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Print ISSN 0733-9364
Publisher Coasts, Oceans, Ports and Rivers Institute
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 132
Issue 7
Pages 786-794
DOI https://doi.org/10.1061/%28ASCE%290733-9364%282006%29132%3A7%28786%29
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0733-9364(2006)132:7(786)
Related Public URLs http://pubs.asce.org/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=2147486635&libID=2147486635