Structural Insulated Panels Promise Affordability, Energy-Efficiency

Structural insulated panels are being considered by many in the Inland Empire of Southern California as an energy-efficient, affordable housing design solution.

1 minute read

November 26, 2003, 11:00 AM PST

By Connie Chung

In the Inland Empire, where housing prices have escalated along with new construction, many are considering structural insulated panel construction in residential development. "Because of the foam core insulation and Lego-like, snap-together construction, the structural panel homes are 15 times more airtight than traditional homes and are highly energy efficient." The panels are beneficial to California, in particular, as structural panel homes can withstand earthquakes and meet fire safety codes. "Legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s built one of the first homes made from structural insulated panels. But the method has captured the interest of consumers on a large scale only within the past five to 10 years as technology improved and more panel manufacturers set up shop...."

Thanks to Connie Chung

FULL STORY: California a niche for new home materials

Sunday, November 23, 2003 in The Chicago Tribune

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