Reasons to buy SIPS - eco friendly, rapid build, strength of build

Big Savings on Heating Bills

SIPS are one of the most environmentally responsible building systems available. A SIP building provides extremely high levels of insulation and is extremely airtight, meaning that the amount of energy used to heat and a cool a room can be cut by up to 50 percent.

SIPS buildings are more energy efficient, stronger, quieter and more draft free than older technology systems, like timber framing.

Less air movement or leakage translates into less drafts, fewer penetrations for noise, lower energy bills and a significantly more comfortable and controllable indoor environment. The result is lower energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

The inherent airtight construction lends itself to mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems (MVHR) which reduce energy costs and improve air quality.

Ecologically Friendly

Housing in Britain currently accounts for 27 percent of the country’s carbon dioxide emissions. By reducing the amount of energy used in buildings, architects, builders, and homeowners can contribute to a clean environment for the future.

SIPS out-perform other building methods in virtually every environmental category because the insulation is a component of the system, rather than an addition.

The outer skins of SIPS panels are manufactured from Orientated Strand Board (OSB). This is made from young fast growing trees which are deliberately grown in plantations accredited by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Young trees produce oxygen and remove more carbon dioxide from our atmosphere than mature trees and are renewable, recyclable, biodegradable and non-toxic. 

To make a product with the same strength, timber uses 20% of the energy needed for concrete. Timber is naturally low in thermal conductivity and an excellent insulator. It is 15 times better as an insulator than concrete, 400 times better than steel and 1770 times better than aluminium

External Finishes

Many external finishes can be applied to SIPS. From render, rainscreen and weatherboards to brick slips, tiles or conventional brick outer skin.

Extra Room in the Roof

A SIPS roof structure does not require roof trusses and will provide an open habitable warm room in the roof, allowing a three bedroom house to be turned into a five bedroom house on the same size plot.

Speed of Build

A home constructed using SIPS can be put up as much as 60 percent faster than a traditionally constructed building. SIPS panels are cut to size at our plant (up to 24ft) and delivered ready to immediately install on site. Window openings are also pre-cut.

SIPS are always straight and true and electrical chases are provided in the core of panels so there is no need to drill through studs for wiring.

Because of the increased building speed, on-site labour costs can be dramatically reduced. Labourers will be on site for less time and it is possible to avoid construction during winter periods. Using SIPS also cuts out the need to use contract bricklayers to construct the inner leaf required in a traditional build.

A SIPS structure has a lightweight shell and therefore does not need heavy foundation design. Our highly trained team of engineers will be on site during the construction and will ensure that the building shell is put up in the minimum time possible.

Strength of Build

SIPS are lightweight (approximately 25Kg/m2) making them easier and quicker to assemble on site. However SIPS are also noted for their superior strength. SIP buildings are capable of withstanding extreme climate and weather conditions.

Once completed, a SIPS structure forms a monolithic shell which is up to seven times stronger than a conventional timber frame structure. This provides a building with a very robust and solid feel which can be indistinguishable from a traditionally constructed building once complete.

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