STEEL SNL PANEL INFO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 "Why Are Snap-N-Lock SIPs Better Than Other Metal SIPs?" 

Snap-N-Lock Steel Structural Insulated Panels are ICC recognized (ESR-3152) to be load-bearing walls as well as roofs.  Other metal SIPs are not rated for structural load and require internal or external steel/wood skeletons to be code compliant, therefore, can only be used as cladding.

"Why Is The Snap-N-Lock SIP Better Than OSB SIPs?"

Snap-N-Lock SIPs are the structure, insulation and moisture barrier in a single installed unit. Wood panels require an additional moisture barrier. Snap-N-Lock panels have a tremendous strength to weight ratio. This makes them light and easy to install without heavy equipment, like cranes. A wood panel is about twice as heavy as a metal panel. Snap-N-Lock panels are essentially unaffected by insects and other pests. Unless you are purchasing a treated wood panel, the wood in the panel is a food source for pests. Snap-N-Lock panels interlock without the need for an additional framing member at the joint. Wood panels require a lumber or plywood spline at each joint. Snap-N-Lock panels have extremely good fire resistance. Wood burns easily. Also, since all components of Structall Snap-N-Lock panels can be recycled, there is less waste on the construction site. Wood panels are not as easily recycled into an equally valuable product. Snap-N-Lock panels do not “off-gas”, in other words, the components of the panel do not emit chemical gasses from their manufacturing process into the building environment. Wood panels are made of plywood or OSB and may emit a number of chemical gasses including formaldehyde.

"What Are Some Lesser Known Advantages To Building A Metal Panel Home?"

One advantage is that the metal panel homeowner, depending on the insurance company, may receive a discount on his insurance premium for building a wind and fire resistant home. Another advantage is that the home should receive a better bank appraisal due to the superior level of construction. Finally, metal panel homeowners have described a comfortable evenness of temperature as one moves throughout the home. This is due to the lack of air leakage and drafts.

"Does A Snap-N-Lock Home Cost More Than A Conventional Home?"

While, traditionally, a superior home such as Snap-N-Lock would add 3-5% to the total construction cost when compared to “Stick Built” homes, we anticipate a substantial savings once the 2009 and 2012 IRC building codes are adopted nationwide.   The 2009 code mandates 20% improvement over the 2006 code energy efficiency for 2009 and 30% over 2006 in 2012.   Our homes have shown a “total energy savings” of 35% to 40% savings for the last 15 years over the 2006 code and we are working toward meeting the 2020 code.

 "What Is The Average Cost Of A House Per S.F. ?" 

Varies due to many factors.  Compared to conventional building methods, material costs are about 5-10% higher.  Labor costs, however, are significantly lower for erecting the panel home, possibly 30-50% depending on geographic location and complexity of design.

"Can I Modify One Of Your Plans?" 

Unlike conventional plans that require major redesign to change layout and other features, our plans are readily adaptable. Only the load bearing and shear walls on the interior are structural in nature, the remainder of the floor plan is very much adaptable to multiple configurations and the exterior details can be adapted to reflect local preferences and styles. As the entire shell is structural, openings can be moved, removed, or adapted to floor plans anytime up to the cutting of the openings in the factory or field. As each home is unique we recommend the use of an Architect or Engineer in preparing your final construction drawings.

"Does Structall Do Custom Homes? " 

As a rule, the unique nature of Snap-N-Lock panels allows for easy conversion of your conventional floor plan.  Have your architect or engineer contact us and our team will gladly assist in the conversion of the plans and suggest some cost savings that may be associated with our product as well. If you do not have an architect or engineer, contact us for possible recommendations in your area. Please feel free to send us a sketch or drawing and we will have someone contact you for further information.

"Where Can I Find A Contractor? "

While we have many contractors that have constructed our homes in most parts of the country, we excel in assisting your contractor in adapting to using our panels. We offer superior levels of support at every stage of construction. Email us at info@structall.com for more information on contractors in your area or assistance in doing the home yourself.

"How Much Will It Cost To Finish The Home? " 

With less waste in material, reduction in size of HVAC units, 50% less rework due to superior qualities of steel, and weather issues causing moisture and mold problems associated with conventional construction, you should anticipate a below average cost for finishing your home.

"How Is Electricity And Plumbing Supported In A Structall Home?" 

Electrical:  Electrical rough in is much the same as in conventional construction. Using readily available plastic grommets, the interior wall studs are prep punched with holes to allow for use of conventional “Romex”, on exterior walls the “Romex" is fastened directly to the Snap-N-Lock skin using clips. The outlet and switches are placed in 1-1/4" x 4" gang box with single or double gang plaster rings.

Plumbing:  Codes recommend that vent lines and most plumbing be routed away from exterior walls.  Following these guidelines maximizes the interior space as thicker walls need not be provided.

"Can Any Foundation Support A Structall Home?"

Certainly any foundation system can support a Snap-N-Lock home.  Substantial savings can be realized if consideration is given to the superior strength to weight ratio of a Snap-N-Lock panel.

"What Type Of External Finishes Can I Have On My Home? " 

Snap-N-Lock homes are ready to accept any finish you wish to apply. The panels provide an impenetrable moisture barrier and allow for attachment of most exterior finishes directly to the panel wall. Paperback lath is recommended for stucco or pattern concrete finishes.

"How Is The Inside Of A SBS Home Finished?"

Conventional drywall and plaster or the normal finishes, contact us for other unique applications that you may want to consider.

"Where Can I Go To See A Structall House? "

You may very well have one already. We pride ourselves on blending in to your neighborhood or city contact us about possible sites near you that used Snap-N-Lock panels.

"Can Panels Meet Wind And Seismic Code Requirements?" 

Yes they can. Panels are inherently stronger than conventional framing and are extremely strong in racking and shear, which are the primary issues with seismic and wind load calculations.

"What Makes Metal Panel Construction Resistant To Damage From Hurricane Winds?"

We have numerous examples of our homes surviving, virtually damage free, hurricanes Isaac, Katrina, Gustave, Ivan, Ike, Hugo, etc.

"Expect In Terms Of Energy Savings From A Panel Home As Compared To A Conventionally Built Home? " 

Actual energy rating of homes to date proves an average 38% to 40% reduction in “total” energy cost per home.

"Are Homes Constructed Faster Using Snap-N-Lock Panels? "

Definitely.  A lead carpenter and three laborers have erected a complete shell in as little as three days. Weather delays are minimal as there is no need to allow for the structure to dry thoroughly after each rain event. The work season can be extended in northern climates as the shell structure is weather tight and fully insulated immediately upon installation of the panel structure. The exterior trim is a pre-finished component of the Snap-N-Lock panel system using 7 ¼” aluminum drip edge fascia and require no additional treatment.

"What Is The Warranty For Structall Panels?" 

Snap-N-Lock panels are covered by an industry-leading 10 year limited warranty with a great record of performance, well exceeding the 10 year period.

"What Is The R-Value For A Structall Structure? "

A true value of 4.33 when part of the structure.  Under N1102.2.1 guidelines a 6" roof is equal to R30 as part of an insulated roof/ceiling structure since the full height of the uncompressed insulation extends over the top wall plate at the eaves.

"How Are Structall Panels Affected By Pests Such As Termites And Ants?"

Unlike conventional wood construction, Structall steel panels are constructed from steel and foam; therefore, they do not offer any type of food source to pests such as termites.

"How Water Resistant Are Snap-N-Lock Panels?"

The connection detail of the Snap-N-Lock panel provides for an internal reservoir of sealant in addition to the unique tongue and groove Snap-N-Lock connection, and has successfully performed as a weather tight roof for (27 years) as part of modular room and roof systems and now has been adapted to commercial and residential construction with amazing results.

"Can SIPs Be Used For Internal Walls? " 

Yes.  They offer up to 2 Hr. UL listed fire wall protection as well as the same sound deadening feature as a solid brick wall. With the tight seal at all the connections and individual EVR for each unit in an apartment complex, you can greatly reduce your vacancy rate by minimizing the #2 cause for eviction (utility cost) and the major complaints of noise, odors, and security. Each unit consists now of an independent environment exceeding comfort levels of many single family residences.

"How Are Snap-N-Lock Homes Financed?" 

Snap-N-Lock homes are eligible for all methods of standard home financing. Along with the standard financing, the appraised value of the home can be increased by having an energy rating done under Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae guidelines for an Energy Efficient Mortgage. The energy rating also allows for a higher debt to income ratio and disallows for consideration of existing homes and foreclosed homes. For inclusion in appraisal process contact us at info@structall.com for links to the appropriate websites for further information and additional State and Federal Incentives for Energy Efficiency.