Structural Insulated Panels and Wood basements...

[fish specialist]

I'm looking at some new houses and have come across some affordable new houses that have been constructed using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and they have a wood basement using the same SIPs. My question is, what is your opinion on these SIPs and wood basements? The SIPs are supposed to be very energy efficient and I've found information both for and against wood basements. What are your opinions? I believe the SIPs used were manufactured in Cottonwood, MN.

[BoxMN]

I am not a professional, and don't know squat about them. Well, I did study them a bit when we built, but still won't say I know that much. Here is my take - they have many good properties - but.... look at the area you are buying/building. If it is not "common" it will scare away the uninformed from buying.

So, even if it is "better" , until most people know it is better, it will be a detriment to the value of the house. I am talking mainly about the foundation, and basement, as SIPs are getting pretty common for above ground and roofs. But one story about a poorly constructed wood foundation goes a long ways - my neighbor had a bad experience, and trust me, that word got around. I know many people have probably had good experiences with them, but you won't find me putting my money on a with a wood foundation, whether justified or not...

Good luck!

[titelines]

We built using SIP's and love them. The house is "tighter" than anything I've experienced...extremely efficient.

We built north of Duluth and, to our surprise, had the option of doing the basement with SIP's too. We worried about rot etc., but were assured that it would not be a problem. In the end, unrelated to our skepticism, we ended up with a slab foundation.

We contracted with the same manufacturer in Cottonwood, so I have a contact over there. I'll send his info to you if you want and you can ask him your questions directly.

[echo2010]

I made an offer on a house with a wood basement.

I looked at it in january and noticed it was considerably warmer downstairs then a typical poured basement.

I knew the previous owners well, they never had water or any related issue. The inspection passed with flying colors...

But it wasnt ment to be and I am now the owner of a split level

[fish specialist]

titelines,

That would be great if you could send me his info. We have made an offer and it was accepted (contingent on an inspection, of course) so I would like to contact him and ask him some general questions. Just email me [email protected]. Thanks!

[titelines]

Fish Specialist -

You have mail.