Custom Residence, AK

Project Overview

This private residence sought light and soaring expanses in the private woodsy paradise in Alaska. The modern design and shed roof style paired perfectly with the wall of glass windows. The Premier SIPS roof also spanned impressively so the interior boasts large open spaces and tall ceilings.

Like many projects in Alaska, building material availability and weather restraints shorten the building season. In Alaska the window to build closes fast as temperatures drop, and speed of construction is a critical requirement for new construction.

Factory fabricated SIPs are the perfect solution. Large panels are precut in the factory, with extreme precision, using state-of-the art manufacturing equipment. Panels are pre-insulated, incorporate sheathing, which also serves as the weather resistant barrier (WRB) required in Alaska. Windows, doors, and other required openings are pre-cut in the factory. Electrical chases are also pre-drilled at regular increments (which can be customized per project) allowing electricians to quickly pull wire through pre-drilled locations to install electrical.

Shipped to the job site, ready to install, homes that use superior SIPs Systems require much less labor and time to assemble. Typically a home like this will install in 2-3 days, rather than 2-3 weeks. This means the building is ready for windows, doors, and can be dried in extremely fast, cutting the construction time significantly.  With the building envelope complete interior work can begin with far less limitations due to weather challenges. 

Additional benefit of SIPS is the energy efficiency in the cold Alaskan winters. Where degrees are below freezing on a regular basis, many buildings have high heating bills to keep interior spaces warm. Premier SIPS, however, are approximately 60% more energy efficient than standard site-framed/2x6 lumber & fiberglass insulation which directly impacts the amount of energy needed to heat a building in the winter. This not only saves on energy costs, but also reduces the demands for carbon consumption.  Choosing energy efficiency with Premier SIPS is a great way for this beautiful home to both create a comfortable space for the owner's family, and to help reduce green house gases that contribute to global warming.