I've read through the SIPS Learning Center and couldn't find any discussion of this:  Is it possible to have clerestory windows and a SIPS roof, or would the engineering problems make it simpler to just go with roof trusses?  I'm looking at a one-story house, so it sounds as if SIPS would be more expensive to begin with, but I'm curious if it's even possible.

Any information would be appreciated!

Roger

Roger,
Yes it is possible to have clerestory windows in a sips roof. As to how difficult it would be depends on many variables. Most SIPS roofs require some type of structural support system. If the clerestory is taken into account during the design phase, it should be relatively simple to make the correct alignment of the supports.
You can also combine the use of heavier trusses spaced 4-8' on center, with SIPS overlaid to create a rather unique appearance. In this case, the clerestory becomes very easier to do.

Roger,

How are the clerestory windows in your design configured. Are they around a cupola or are they facing one direction above and below two opposing slope roof planes? or did you mean dormers with windows? Either way with a little careful thought about the support structure they can be achieved with SIPs

Thanks for the replies!  The general idea of the roofline is here:

http://www.architecture.uwaterloo.ca/faculty_projects/terri/carbon-aia/case/global/images/650/section-perspective.jpg

although I'm looking at a single-story structure.  I'd want the clerestory windows for winter light.

Wes:  It sounds as though you're talking about a design which would combine SIPS walls with a roof assembly that would give me the look of a timber frame ceiling from the inside - is this correct??

Roger

Posted By rlsmith017 on 19 Jun 2010 08:41 PM
Thanks for the replies!  The general idea of the roofline is here:

http://www.architecture.uwaterloo.ca/faculty_projects/terri/carbon-aia/case/global/images/650/section-perspective.jpg

Thats a perfect SIPs design

Roger,
Yes, by leaving the trusses exposed and finishing the underside of the roof SIPS, you get a timber frame appearance. And at a fraction of the cost of true timber frame trusses.

Roger,

That is a very SIP friendly configuration. Trusses would not even be necessary just a simple panel span from exterior wall to exterior wall, with maybe an intermediate beam or girder truss. Also if the clerestory wall is supported by a wall in plan that is would make it a really easy design to build. If there is no wall under the clerestory a beam and posts or girder truss would be necessary.