Does anyone have any experience or knowledge building a SIP home using  a post frame structure wrapped with SIPs?  I'm talking about the type of structure used for barns and machine sheds where the posts are set in the ground or on concrete piers.

Thanks in advance.

It's very common. Take a look at the TOH(This Old House) 'Concord Barn' project. No doubt there is a tape of it that you can purchase. But please remember, that SIPS are indeed structural, and don't need a supporting structure.

jc is right about some SIPS being structural, but not all are. If you use a post frame structure, all the engineering is in the frame, so the SIPS can be non-structural, which means you can use lower density EPS and non third party certified (stamped) panels. These panels can be much less expensive to use. We represent a very well engineered post frame building company. I have modified their frame design slightly (with their permission and approval), and combined it with nail base panels (OSB on one side only) to product a building envelope that is less expensive than with straight SIPS. With a little creative finish work you can have a timber frame style home at a fraction of the cost of true timberframe.

wes, do you have a website where I could look at the building envelope you're talking about? Also, which post frame company do you represent and where?

Thanks

Hello JP,

it is called a pole barn structure. Or at least that is what we call them up hear in the northeast.

for most instances you would want to use structural to tie everything together. That also depends on the engineering and how the frame is connected.

Ralph

New World Panels, LLC
1368 Hooksett Road
Hooksett NH, 03106

603-209-4857

jp,
Sorry, no website available. You can contact me directly at 1-877-659-1950 or [email protected]. The company we rep is Stockade Buildings, Oran (Sikeston/Cape Girardeau) MO. 800-548-6765.

Ralph, I don't build 'pole barns'. Don't knock until you try it. I suspect our engineering specs compare very well with your timber frame engineering specs. And, unless you build a VERY cheap timber frames, my costs are far more reachable for the average buyer.