Established in 2006 by industry veteran Al Cobb, SIPschool provides training and consulting in all areas of SIP construction. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are typically made by sandwiching a core of rigid foam plastic insulation between two structural skins of oriented strand board, metal, or concrete. "I was frustrated with the general misinformation associated with SIPs," says Cobb. "I fel
t the industry needed an unbiased vehicle to promote all types of SIPs, backed with solid, fact-based training. In the last eight years we've served over a thousand students here at our home facility and have trained many more at off-site seminars". The building industry, including the international community, recognizes the potential of SIPs in all areas of construction. This interest has coincided with the consumer's growing appetite for green building products and energy-efficient options. "When training ensures the proper design and installation, a SIP envelope can meet all the consumer's expectations. SIPs provide lower energy costs, reduce our carbon footprint and provide a safer, cleaner and structurally superior building system," says Cobb. "Pre-planning in a SIP build is an important part of the process. You need to be considering issues such as proper HVAC sizing, sealing strategies, and electrical issues. The R-value benefits provided by SIPs are significant, but unless you're installing these panels correctly you might as well just leave the windows open." SIPschool's many services include classroom instruction for Owner/Builders, hands- on workshops for students who want actual work-site experience, AIA and Building Inspector seminars, international manufacturing startup consulting and project inspections. Classes are offered in Shenandoah Junction, WV, or at off-site locations.
