What is SIP ?
SIP panels are a high performance, prefabricated Structural, Insulated Panel, used for building your ultra efficient, sustainable Passive House, Schools, Offices and many other domestic and commercial buildings small and large.
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SIP panels are a Modern Method of Construction (MMC) making building faster, more cost effective and finished to a higher standard.
The panel has 2 layers of structural grade OSB/3, sandwiching an insulation core that can be EPS (Expanded polystyrene) or PU (Polyurethane) or GPS (Graphite Polystyrene).
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SIP are a Modern Method of Construction (MMC) providing low carbon construction solutions.
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SIP provide a solution to accelerating carbon reduction to net zero.
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SIP are a direct replacement for various types of construction guaranteeing better performance
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SIP have a faster installation time, and with a smaller wall build up you need less materials, so your overall project cost is lower.
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SIP has been around for over 60 years so is a tried and tested system.
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SIP is now recognised as a solution to the rising material costs, tighter building regulation requirements, and demand for lower energy performance.
Benefits of SIP ?
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7 X Stronger than timber kit
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3 x stronger than blockwork
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65% less thermal bridging than timber kit
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Air tightness increased by 70%
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Simple construction
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SIP panels used for Floor, Wall & Roof
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90% less material wastage on site
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66% semi skilled workforce
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50% quicker erection
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Controlled manufacture ensuring consistent panel quality
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A+ energy rating achieves passive house standards
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50% less energy consumption (heating)
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Polyurethane SIP Panels
How Long do SIP panels last?
Like any timber construction, when kept dry and protected, SIP panels last up to 60 years, or longer.
What insulation is in a SIP panel?
There are a number of various different insulations used for SIP panels, but the 3 main types are Polyurethane (PU) and Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Graphite Polystyrene (GPS). We use PU or EPS insulation. PU is injected as a liquid, between the OSB boards and forms a very strong bond directly to the OSB.
Why should I use PU SIP panels?
Polyurethane panels are one of the best insulants in the world, with a co-efficiency of thermal conductivity of 0.023 W/mK, lower than almost any other insulation. This means you can achieve a lower u-value with a thinner panel. A thinner panel means smaller timber sections. It also means you dont need any additional expensive 'add on' insulation, and wall build up, to achieve your target u-value. PU does not absorb moisture and does not experience any diminished R-values over time. The PU SIP panels saves on materials, time and money.
Are PU SIP safe in fire?
PU insulation neither melts nor drips when heated. The char emerging on the surface of the insulation protects the core from decomposition, so the integrity of the structure is maintained for a long time even if heavily attacked by the fire. OSB element of the panel is wood and will burn, but for fire resistance the panels are encased in plasterboard to the internal face and a non-combustible cladding to the external face. For a more information on fire resistant construction please email info@sipit.uk, or discuss with an experienced professional