<p>One option from my house-hunting is a smallish cottage in a neighborhood I really like. I’d prefer a bit more room (specifically a formal dinning room and a den/office). One of those HGTV shows gave me the idea of pre-fab [and lower cost] exterior walls, which could be used to expand the back of the house. Anyone have experience with this? Was it that much cheaper than a custom built expansion/remodeling job?</p>
<p>SIPs? <a href=“Structural Insulated Panel Association”>Structural Insulated Panel Association;
<p>They certainly have some advantages. In order for them to be cheaper you need to find builders who are accustomed to working with them. I’ve never specified them and don’t know of any addition/remodeling contractors who use them. Theoretically they should be cheaper and provide better insulation.</p>
<p>You should talk to a local architect.</p>