Three laminated beams, 32 feet in length, needed to be set to support the roof panels.
Not a job for mere mortals!
So one at a time, a sling was fastened to each beam, lifted from the ground, and set into slots pre cut into the wall panels.
But the roof panels were 10 inches thick, and over 14 feet long.
To shorten crane time, we fastened two mating panels on the ground.
And because none of the family crew found any enjoyment working two stories off the ground, a four man crew was hired.
It took just one day to fly the roof beams and panels into place.
And two days to shingle.
Another family weekend, and the windows and doors were installed.
There is a right time to do each part of any building project, and Structural Insulated Panel projects are no exception to that rule.
House wrap has to be done before windows and doors are installed so those openings are protected. Expanding foam must be in place between window frames and the windows.
We used Marvin Windows throughout the Sailor's Solace project and have found they work very well in our super insulated structures.
Each passing week brought lower temperatures and Lake Superior "lake effect" snows became every other day events.
It was very evident that there was little time left for comfortable working on the exterior of our cottages.
Sailor's Solace Cottages were sided in one weekend.
Deck completion and stairs done in the week that followed.
And we were ready for winter. Ready for inside work!
1. Much less
construction waste.
2. Less need for skilled labor.
3. Faster construction of the shell.
The first question I get about SIPs is "how much?"
The second question is "how do you run the electric wire?"
The answer?
During the manufacture of your panels by the Extreme Panel-Insulspan crew, chases are cut into each panel.
See the illustration at the end of this page.
People who stay with us appreciate the apartment sized accommodations, the expanse of windows, huge decks, quiet location, and proximity to Lake Superior and the attractions of Bayfield, WI.
And we have even made a few converts to building with SIPs!
