We are looking to build a small 1200 sf home in the far northern suburbs of Minneapolis and have a few questions. Is it really economical to build such a small home using Sips? I have had several conflicting opinions but still think Sips are the way to go.  Also what is the average cost increase for using Sips over conventional construction? I realise that the actual cost will be more than off set by the energy saveings but I have a very limited budget to start with. We are also wondering about Icf foundation walls in sandy soil conditions since the soil seems to be not completely stable after the basement and foundation is back filled.

Pauly,

Small home or big home it doesn't matter I felt that I came out cheaper building with sips. The initial costs of materials might be a little higher but your savings on labor far out weigh the difference.

Pauly,

I work for a SIP distributer in the north metro.  If you have any questions about building with SIPs in MN.  I could answer them or refer you to some of our past customers.  SIPs work really well for small home construction.  In my opinion they are great for all sizes of construction projects. 

AK

Our present home is a 1200 sq ft SIP home.(built in 2001) 24 x 50.

It was cheaper than going stick built. Price on materials may have been close but we saved on labor and time.
Factor in the time saving on paying a construction loan for a shorter period of time and it pays off.