Description

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) could provide an affordable solution for New Zealand’s current housing shortage. Although these products have been used in overseas residential buildings for some time, the building system is different from our traditional light timber-framed construction.

BRANZ reviewed documentation on fire-performance requirements in New Zealand and overseas. The availability of standards and design guidance on SIPs shows that this type of building is being taken seriously in other developed countries. Much of the overseas information is relevant to New Zealand.

Scope

This publication includes:

• SIPs and New Zealand regulations
  • Requirements for foamed plastics
  • Requirements for different building types
  • Third-party verification
• SIP components and building systems
• Relevant overseas requirements and documentation
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
• Conclusion