Architects & Engineers > FAQs

ARCHITECTS’ AND ENGINEERS’
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MURUS SIPs

Which foam type is better – Murus Polyurethane foam or Murus EPS foam?
Neither foam is necessarily better than the other; rather, each foam type has unique properties and may offer advantages in certain instances. The primary difference between the two is the density of the foam. EPS foam density is a nominal 1 pound per cubic foot, while Polyurethane foam density is nominally 2.2 pounds per cubic foot. While Polyurethane SIPs provide a higher R-value per inch of thickness, EPS SIPs can be less expensive than Polyurethane SIPs, making them an affordable alternative to Polyurethane for the budget-conscious.

How are shingles or metal roof coverings applied to Murus roof SIPs?
It depends upon which type of roof finish material will be used.  Ultimately, installation details and technical information on the specific roofing product should be verified through the product manufacturer.

   Shingles: Not all shingle manufacturers warrant shingles applied directly over an insulated deck or SIPs. Depending on your choice of manufacturer, an additional ventilated space may be required for warranty qualification. The preferred and recommended method of shingle installation is on an elevated, ventilated surface. Furring strips or strapping are screwed vertically over a layer of roofing felt to the exterior surface of the roof panel on 16" to 24" centers. A layer of sheathing material is applied on the strapping as the nail base for the shingles. This system requires both eave and ridge vents to vent the cavity and prevent condensation and heat buildup.

   Metal: For metal roof applications, an additional layer of strapping, installed horizontally, can be used in lieu of the sheathing.

Visit the Murus Panel Installation Manual for more information.

What types of siding and exterior finishes may be used?

Virtually any type of siding may be applied to the exterior surface of a wall SIP. Some common materials include a variety of vinyl siding, aluminum siding, and kiln dried wood sidings to include clapboard, shiplap, board and batten, and shingles. Exterior finishes should always be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended installation instructions.  When applying exterior finishes, a layer of house wrap or felt paper should first be applied over the SIPs. Masonry and fiber-reinforced stuccos can also be used if a ventilated air space is provided. Masonry materials such as brick veneer must not come in direct contact with the SIP. A vented air space between the veneer and SIPs, and weep holes in the masonry must be provided.

Where can I find span and load tables for Murus SIPs?
Each project is unique and so are the load and span requirements for that project. We can provide the necessary information to you directly – please call us at (800) 626-8787.

Can Murus SIPs be used in conjunction with other alternative building systems?
Yes, by all means. Many construction projects combine ICF walls with a SIP roof. Timber frames are a natural for SIP enclosure systems, and a SIP roof will provide log home structures with a clean, energy efficient interior ceiling surface for finishing ease.

What information does Murus need in order to provide me with an estimate?
Murus is always willing to help estimate the cost of your project; we’ll need a good set of plans that include dimensions and elevations so we can estimate material quantities and service costs for you.  Here's a list of what you'll need to supply to us:

Complete final dimensioned drawings, including

   Four (4) building elevations

   Floor plans - dimensioned

   Building cross-sections - dimensioned

   Complete structural and/or timber frame components - dimensioned

   Roof plan - dimensioned

   Window and door locations

   Window and door schedule listing rough opening sizes (unit dimensions alone are not acceptable)

   Applicable Building Code and design loads (roof, floor, wind, snow, etc.)

Where should I send plans and documentation?
Send your plans and documentation to:

The Murus Company
PO Box 220 (for US Mail)
3234 Route 549 (for FedEx, UPS, etc.)
Mansfield, PA 16933