Foam Laminates of Vermont -- SIPs Manufacturer : Components Of A SIP

SIPs (Structural Insulated Panel) Manufacturer

Alden B. Dow - an architecture student of Frank Lloyd Wright - experimented further with the concept of structural panels. Dismayed over the lack of proper insulation in Wright's Usonian homes, concerned about energy efficiency, and fearful over depleting natural recourses, Dow sought to create a structural panel with an insulated core. In 1950, Dow did just that and as a result he is generally credited with creating the first structural insulated panel.

Dow's earliest SIPs were employed in homes located in Midland Michigan. The panels were composed of 1 5/8 in. styrofoam cores for the necessary insulation and 5/16 plywood facings to add structural support for the load bearing walls. These same SIPs were installed over roof framing on 42 in. centers. Many of these original SIPs can still be found in homes today.

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Alden B. Dow is considered by many to be the first practitioner of SIPs.

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