Cautionary Notes

PORTERCORP

4240 N. 136th Ave.

Holland, MI 49424

800.354.7721

info@space-frames.com

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BUILDING OWNERS AND CONTRACTORS TAKE NOTE:

Over the past 20 years, the occurrence of moisture-caused problems in new buildings has greatly increased.  These problems arise when tight construction does not allow the building to dry out or by poor construction techniques that allow moisture to readily pass thru voids.

Failure to address site conditions and climatic conditions of the site with proper design criteria may lead to problems.  Space-Frames with standard SIP panels are not recommended for pool or spa enclosures or environments with high humidity.  Consult the PorterCorp factory for information on using SIPs under humid conditions.

PorterCorp, subscribes to the recommendations of nationally recognized building scientists Joseph Lstiburek and Stephen Smulski in the following checklist of cautions:

A)

Employ design features that promote water-shedding

B)

Install a drain plane over all sheathed surfaces

C)

Use kiln dried lumber

D)

Use sealants, caulks, gaskets, and tapes to seal potential air leakage paths

(Note: Space-Frames installation manual and detailed  construction drawings)

E)

Install a mechanical air exchange system

F)

Keep relative humidity to less than 40% during the heating season

G)

Vent clothes dryers, bathroom fans and kitchen fans to the outside

H)

Use vapor retardants only according to professional design recommendations

I)

Size HVAC to the heating/cooling requirements of the specific building design

J)

Use a contractor that utilizes proper construction practices

K)

Select wall and roof interior and exterior finishes that will allow the SIP panels to breathe.  These materials and their placement will depend on local climate and lifestyle.

For more information contact the Forest Products Society in Madison, WI or refer to:

"Durability of Energy-Efficient Wood-Frame Houses" by Stephen Smulski, Forest

      Products Journal, May 1999

"Moisture, Building Enclosures and Mold" by Joseph Lstiburek, HPAC Engineering,

      December 2001

"Builders Guide" by Joseph Lstiburek, Building Science Corporation, Westford, MA,

      copyright 2000

"SIPS.org" website of Structural Insulated Panels Association

"Portersips.com" a division of PorterCorp

Copyright PorterCorp 03/08/2004