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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.