If one is making SIP panels, what are the advantages of having your panels certified?  What can uncertified panels be used for? 

Who does the certifying, specifically -- I know that it is a test lab of some kind, but does anyone have names for any of these outfits?

Thanks, and have a great weekend!

Eric

Testing facilities:


LINK


Terrapin Testing, Inc   LINK


Radco   LINK

Certification is what makes SIPs expensive. Since the component parts are not structural, the finished product must be tested to meet structural standards. Thus panels are tested for failure under various loads to determine whether they will meet code requirements. Each company gets their own testing results which can get very expensive. This is in part due to the fact that each connection and size must be tested. Some companies create franchise type situations by setting up companies to use their method for producing panels and use the testing as an umbrella for satellite locations.

Certification is the only way to ensure that the engineering which is required for alternate construction techniques matches the calculations that a structural engineer uses to stamp the plans for a building. The real issue is that the authorities signing off on the buiding must have a reasonable method for ensuring that the panels will hold up to expected standards over the life of the building.

The reality is that you can probably build a panel that will act structurally. But until you pass the hat on the liability, you will hold it and will have to disclose it.

Perhaps you can skirt the issue by making nonstructural panels called nail base. They are often used in timber framed homes. You can use densglass on one side instead of OSB to save some time with sheetrock steps and make a panel that fills holes rather then provide structural support.