There is quite a bit of information regarding how to build with OSB SIPs, but I have not seen a guide for building with Metal SIPs.

The two types of SIPs are quite different and there should be a source of information explaining the differences to homeowners, designer and contractors, allowing them to make informed choices. Yes, they are both SIPs, but the characteristics of their skins is where their application and details differ.

One other aspect of metal SIPs that make them significantly different from OSB SIPs is the absence of splines to join one panel to the next. This causes a more complex panel to panel joint geometry that can effect a panel's placement and fabrication and thus the overall building's design.

No reply necessary unless you read the guide and want to give feedback.

JeffD,

I read the guide you sent me 100+ Tips for Building with Metal SIPs. It really helped me understand this building material. I now know what questions to ask a supplier or contractor.

Many Thanks

Jim

Free tip: it is important to immediately brush off any chips from saw cuts, as if left overnight or rained on will result in unsightly rust freckle spots

(to continue).....that will distress the owner and make them think the panel is defective and rusting even though the mark is just a staining of the surface paint layer. And what the owner thinks and feels is critical to the owner, contractor relationship. So not cleaning up the metal cutting has deeper ramifications.

a magnetic level is beneficial, its like an extra hand

Pay particular attention to the base track to make sure it is not "pinched in" and tap with a hammer to open up to the full thickness of the wall panel. This will make the panels drop in easier

Recommended tool list:


Tool List:

1. Hammer drill (preferably with SDS bits) for wedge bolts/anchors
2. Ratchet & sockets for wedge anchors
3. Cordless drill/drivers (2) 18V min.
4. 5/16 “ nut drivers, T-30 bits
5. ½” variable speed drill ( for Sip roof Screws)
6. Magnetic level 4 foot min (preferable 6 ft or 8ft.)
7. Miter saw ( 10” min) prefer 12”
8. 7” Circular saw with abrasive blades to trim steel box beam materials
9. Wire cutter (foam)
10. Tin snips
11. Soft push broom
12. 3# maul or small sledge hammer (and 4ft.long 2x4 wood block)
13. Safety goggles
14. 2-4 8” drywall knifes
15. Panel saw Kett KS 423, (with 10 extra blades)
16. Shears Kett KD440
17. Carpenter pencils, utility knife (with spare cutting blades)
18. 6ft. & 8ft. step ladders
19. Scaffolding and boards appropriate for building height


Professionals:

1. MURO collated screw guns
2. Scissor Lifts appropriate for building height


Note: must have temporary power pole or generator onsite

We loan out free of charge ........the Panel saw Kett KS 423 to DIY that purchase panels thru us. The saw retails for about $449.00

Don't for get a chalk line with blue chalk only (red does not come off as easily and makes an unsightly mess).

Also, I can't live without a large and small speed square when I am installing Metal SIPs.

The red pigment in the chalk is probably iron oxide, which would be similar to what Chris said earlier about cleaning off any metal chips from cutting the panels to keep them from oxidizing on the finish.

Oops. posted it twice.

Dick;  red or blue works ok on our panels the paint has a good gloss and either comes off easily, however the red will stain concrete permanently

Posted By JeffD on 12 Jan 2011 03:21 PM

Chris,

You must have recieved a copy of the guide (ha ha) because the tips you are posting are almost word for word what is in the guide.

No never saw it, but I have written tips and instructions in the past including a couple of how to videos, maybe you copied me?

or it might have something to do with 17 years of panel experience

Hey Chris, we have the same amount of experience. I went to work for Structall Building Systems, a metal SIPs manufacturer in 1994. Left to work for an architectural firm from '96-'97 then came back to Structall in '98 till '04. I think I and my brother Jeff should write a book about Metal SIPs and really get the info out there.

mine is actual experience

I will be at the International Builders Show tomorrow Friday and Saturday, booth #219 and will have a metal SIP roof and wall display, I will be glad to answer any questions.

http://www.buildersshow.com/Home/Page.aspx?pageID=1

Vacuum Suction Cups for glass/mirrors are great for manuvering smooth skin wall panels

Here's a couple of tips from the design and engineering section of the guide

5.     Removing any significant portion of the foam core along a panel’s horizontal axis will severely weaken the panel

16.  Support of dropped ceilings should be thought out carefully because the familiar bottom chord of the truss is no longer present.

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We are working on a video installation guide that will be free to anyone that wants it