Borate added to the foam used in structural panels has not been proven to reduce infestation in panels. Virtually all of our business is converting homeowner's plans to panel plans and fabricating blank panels to meet the requirements of the panel plans. A couple of Panel Stock Plan Books are in the works by designers which may be available this fall. Panels are inherently stronger than stick frame and are extremely strong in racking and shear, which are the primary issues with seismic and hurricane calculations. Panels can cost less, but usually cost slightly more.
Panels are design dependent.
If comparable r-value, efficiency and strength are specified, panels are much less expensive than sticks. Most panel manufacturers have a number of contractors that they can refer in their region. In addition, a number of panel erection sub-contractors exist to assist a contractor of your choice. It is usually very difficult to convince a builder to try panels if he doesn't already have experience with them. The construction industry is very slow to try new things for a number of reasons.