First thanks to everyone here. Ya'll have been crucial in my education during the past couple years. I am about to order my ready to build system from Insulspan using 6" walls and 8 "roof. A couple qustions before the pint of no return. Should i pay the extra $600 for 10" roof panels for extra R value and stability? Should i use Insulspans house rap or 30# felt. Im using Hardy plank panels and standing seam roof. Should i use a batten layer for breathablility and rain screen. Any other things outside the norm i should ask or adress before signing the contract. Thanks for the help. I will keep ya'll posted. thanks again, Michael Please feel free to call ( seven zeroo four) 779 9867 im gonna post another tread with the plans since last time i lost the whole post for some reason

Brawler,
A couple things.
Whats so special about Insulspans housewrap? Is it less expensive than the others, or does it have some special features? Not trying to be mean, but most good house wraps will do the job, so look for the best pricing.
If it will be exposed for a while, use the housewrap in lieu of the felt. I don't like to see felt exposed for more than a few hours, much less days or weeks.
I do like the idea of a rainscreen behind siding. Even if Hardy doesn't require it.
Good luck.

10" panels? Depends on where you are - definitely go for it if you are in a cold climate, and use 8" for walls. On the walls- rainscreen is the only way to go.
Bob Irving

Very Exiting time indeed. I built my SIP home 4 years ago, and then spent 3 years drafting for the distributor so I know a little. I have the 6" walls with Tyvek wrap but the roof is conventional. Even so we are quite happy. Two days ago it was 29 outside in the morning and 65 inside with no heat used yet this year. My question for the roof upgrade is how does it affect the related costs, splines, fascia, etc? Typically the interior temps float about 5 degrees - here in the high desert the outside temps often range 30+ degrees - 30's at night, 60's in the afternoon, etc. So, SIPs have been very nice, although I think there are resonable alternatives...Aloha, MP

I am a proponent of Super Insulating, but I agree with Bob. Your location is an important consideration. However, even in cooling dominated locations, extra insulation will help you reduce your cooling bill.

Thanks folks, Wes the only special thing about the Insulspan house wrap is that it comes as part of the package. I am familiar with felt and know how well it holds up. I was considring placing the house wrap on the SIPS and then placing battens, Then placing 30# felt over the battens then the Hardy Shake. Probably overkill but if its not a moisture problem it could be cheap insurance. We are building near Charlotte NC on lake norman so we will mostly be cooling. Does anyone know how much stronger 10" Sips are than 8". I want as little deflection as possible. The house is tiny so either should be fine, but nows the time to decide. Thanks again

speaking of deflection, here's an article... http://www.prlog.org/10321283-polyurethane-structural-insulated-panel-withstands-c4-explosive-blast.html

THAT IS AWESOME! Might come in handy too. My wife has a hell of a temper. When she goes off, well i should probably do the 12" panels.