FAQs
How energy efficient are SIPs
Our designs can be built using one of three levels of energy efficiency
1. Good meets current energy codes in Oregon, Washington and California.
2. Better exceeds current energy codes in Oregon and Washington by about 20%.
3. Best @ R-48 to R-60 is designed for those who want to build toward passive house or Net Zero standards.
4″ = R-20 | 6″ = R30 | 8″ = R-40 | 10″ = R-50 | 12″ = R-60 using Platinum foam.
How Does Your System Work for THoWs
As a maker, DIY kind of guy, I assumed everyone would want to build their own Tiny House on Wheels. Of course, that isn’t true, but it is the market niche we serve.
We have been providing Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) packages to owner-builders for over 20 years, so it was natural we would want to help Tiny House builders in the same way.
Today we provide a variety of stock plans for THoW shells in three of the most popular lengths three widths, and four roof styles. Each of these plans can be semi-customized from a 3D model. By sharing our computer screen with you no matter where you are, in real time we can rotate the 3D model, moving windows and doors, and changing the sizes to make it YOUR home.
Our goal is to produce the safest, most energy-efficient, and affordable Tiny House shell package on the market.
What are the advantages of SIPs?
SIPs can easily provide more insulation than standard building codes require.
SIPs result in a very air tight building that is less drafty and more comfortable
SIPs provide a solid wall and minimal thermal bridging.
SIPs allow you to build it tight, but ventilate it efficiently.
With SIPs you don’t need to learn to be a framer.
What is a Discovery Drawing?
A Discovery Drawing is an 8.5×11 Page with a perspective image, an elevation and a floor plan with dimensions. It is designed as aplace to start discussions with others who might have an interest in what you are thinking about building.
What is a Schematic Drawing?
A Schematic drawing is a set of drawings that further explores a design with larger plan views and elevations, along with sections, roof and foundation. It is designed to give you enough information to work on preliminary pricing for your project. With this set you can get subcontractor estimates for a SIP package, plumbing, electrical, siding, roofing etc. This is a drawing set to share with your local jurisdiction to make sure you can build that building on your lot. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT FIRST STEP!!
Can you customize your plans for my Site?
Yes, you can make some changes to our templates and locate the door(s) and windows for your project where you’d like them. with some exceptions. If there a lot of changes it might become a custom design.
We often suggest that you start the process of building with what is called a schematic drawing. This is a partial set of drawings with enough information to get estimates for sub contractors for the parts that you can’t do. You can also do take-offs for materials to add to your project estimate. Its best to know what this project is going to cost before you start.
We invite you to our computer screen and do them with you in real time as you watch the changes on the screen. This makes the process very quick.
Do you design with other building systems?
Artisan SIP Plans, provides everything from an initial design schematic to full working drawings. Our Plans, can be modified quickly to fit any site, they are designed to use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for easy, fast, and affordable construction of your high-performance building.
We have noted over the years that no one size fits every project so, where appropriate, we also incorporate Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), like Fox Block, The Perfect Block, and Premier ICF.
Let us guide you through the design process and provide you with easy-to-read drawings that will make your construction journey a breeze. Contact us today to get started on your project!
How far can a SIP roof panel span?
There are at least two variables that control the answer to this question.
1-What is the load imposed on the roof from the roofing material?
2-What is the snow load, if any?
Typically for a starting point that allows for a 50 lb. load:
4” will span 8ft 6” will span 10ft 8” will span 12ft 10” will span 14ft 12” will span 16ft
Yes, SIPs can span farther with different spline connectors but that is for a deeper discussion.
Why Structural Insulated Panels for workshops.
As a maker myself,, I know how frustrating it can be to hear mice running in your walls and birds getting in to your shop.
Post Frame buildings (Pole Barns) were designed for agricultural use to keep equipment out of the snow and rain.
An Artisan Workshop is designed for the serious craftsman. With an insulated concrete slab. (add heat if you want to.) Fully insulated walls and roof means:
* No condensation drips.
* Solid walls for attaching anything from cabinets to tool racks.
* The abilty to match the siding and roofing of you primary buildings.
* Quick assembly, do you want to use your building, or spend monthes building it.