Homeowners > Features & Benefits > XPS Features & Benefits
 XPS Features
XPS SIPs
Murus ENERGY STAR® qualified XPS SIPs provide superior insulating properties with outstanding R-values per inch of thickness. Murus XPS panels are an excellent alternative to EPS where higher R-values and/or thinner cross-sections are required.
The XPS foam manufacturing process consists of extruding the foam into the desired shape and thickness, milling it to assure dimensional uniformity, then pressure-laminating it to the panel skins. An extremely durable one-part structural urethane adhesive is used which is reacted to set while under pressure. The resulting bond is stronger than the materials it laminates together.
Joining System
Murus XPS SIPs are installed using plywood key splines to join the panels together. Panels are manufactured with core dimensions that allow dimensional lumber to be incorporated for additional load-bearing support, if required.
Electrical Chase
An optional electrical chase can be cut horizontally into the foam core of the Murus XPS SIP. Three chase height options are available. Additional chase heights can be added; for example, a dedicated chase for countertop receptacle switches or communication wiring.
Optional Factory Pre-cutting
Murus offers state-of-the-art precision factory CNC pre-cutting services. We pre-assemble whole wall or roof sections, then pre-cut window and door openings, adjust the overall panel lengths, and rout the panel foam cores to accommodate inlet plates and nailers. The panels are then disassembled and labeled to correspond with pre-cut drawings (included) for on-site installation and assembly. This service can save time and labor, and will cut on-site waste volume and waste disposal expense.
XPS Benefits
Superior Insulating Value for Energy Savings
Murus SIPs provide exceptional R-values per inch of thickness over conventional enclosure systems and virtually eliminate energy-robbing air infiltration. Murus SIPs can save significantly on heating and cooling energy consumption over conventional stud construction. And, because Murus SIPs are so highly energy efficient, smaller-sized heating and cooling equipment may be installed for further savings.
Green Building Qualified
Because of their ability to significantly reduce heating and cooling loads, Murus XPS SIPs favorably impact the need for fossil fuel-generated energy, saving our limited resources and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. Murus XPS SIPs are ENERGY STAR qualified and are ideal for Green building projects. Because they are qualified under ENERGY STAR, Murus XPS SIPs will contribute to points earned in LEED and NAHB's Model Green Home Guidelines programs.
Total Living Comfort
Air infiltration creates drafts and air stratification (cold floors and hot ceilings). These conditions rob energy and create an uncomfortable living environment. Because of their solid core construction, Murus XPS SIPs virtually eliminate air infiltration and stratification. A structure enclosed with Murus XPS SIPS will be significantly more airtight than conventional enclosure systems, and will have a uniformly balanced, delightfully comfortable interior living environment.
Job-Specific Manufacturing
Murus realizes that every project is unique, so we manufacture every panel to specifications as provided in the project's architectural drawings.
Fast Installation
The composite construction of Murus SIPs ensures fast shell-in times.
Builder Tax Credits
Home builders may be eligible for a $2,000 tax credit for a new energy efficient home that achieves 50 percent energy savings for heating and cooling over the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and supplements. At least one fifth of the energy savings must come from building energy improvements. To learn more, go to: Tax Credits for Home Builders
Client Mortgage Loan Advantage
Several banks and mortgage loan institutions have realized the positive contribution SIPs bring to a new home project, and have developed tailored mortgage loan programs just for system-built projects.
Fire Resistance
The foam used in Murus XPS SIPS holds a Class 1 Fire Resistance rating - the highest rating available for combustible materials. Because the core of a Murus XPS SIP is solid, there is no air cavity in a SIP wall or roof to permit a "chimney effect". A chimney effect promotes and hastens fire spread, and is inherent in open cavity enclosure systems such as stick framing. |
