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Why are SIPs so much
better?
SIPs out perform other
building methods in virtually every category
because the insulation is a component of a system,
rather than an addition. SIPs are a structural composite
like an ‘I’-beam. The two
faces act like the flanges and the rigid core is similar
to the web.
In short, the three components work together, rather
than against
one another
This composite assembly
yields stiffness, strength and consistent
responses. Not only do test results show panels are
stronger, but real
life natural disasters have proven it time and again
Are SIPs new?
SIPs have been used and
improved in the USA, Japan and Canada since the 1950’s,
and are now a ‘traditional’ method of building homes in
these markets. SIP Build have been manufacturing SIPs
for several
years and adapting and improving the technology to meet
the needs of the stringent UK market
Why are SIPs not
more popular?
Simply a lack of
awareness and the conservative nature of the UK
building industry has held back the widespread use of
SIPs. However,
higher insulation standards driven by the Building
Regulations and the
importance of sustainable building methods has made
people look to
SIPs as the most economical method of meeting new
requirements
U-values as low as 0.10
W/m2K can be achieved in walls and roofs
using SIPs which means the system easily meets the
tighter values
set in the 2006 revision of the building regulations
Why are SIPs
environmentally friendly?
• SIPs buildings are
more energy efficient, stronger, more quiet and
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
• Factory made with
minimal site wastage and less landfill use
• OSB is made from
sustainable harvested spruce, thinning and
managed plantations
• Up to 35% less raw
timber use in SIPs buildings. All timber used is FSC
graded
• SIPs can help reduce
the carbon footprint of the building due to
superior air tightness that can be achieved along with
wall and roof
U values which out perform current building regulations
What is the best
heating system for a SIPs house?
Any conventional
heating system can be used but should be down-sized
because SIPs houses are so energy efficient. Controls
are important as
heating demand can be low or negligible and overheating
can occur
Is planning a
problem with SIPs?
SIPs is an accepted
building technology and will not cause problems with
planning approval. In the same way a well detailed and
engineered SIPs design will not raise difficulties with
building control. SIP Build are always available to give
advice
How do SIPs react to
fire?
SIPs have passed every
Standard fire test that is required. A key element of
fire safety is protection of the SIPs and any other
underlying structure with thermal barriers like gypsum
wallboard
What foundation
should be used?
Any construction can be
used but the tolerance to level must be
+/- 5mm to ensure the most efficient erection of the
SIPs panels
What are the options
for external finishes?
SIPs provide straight,
flat surfaces. Choose almost any material from
bricks, natural stone, brick stone, brick tiles, polymer
and cement
renders, timber cladding, and metal cladding. Roof
finishes can include
various lightweight systems as well as traditional slate
or tiles
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