FAQ's
Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are an offsite construction system that combines structure and insulation in a single engineered panel. The SIPs Explained section answers common questions about SIP construction, including wall and roof design, panel performance, construction programmes and project costs.
Browse the sections below to explore key topics about structural insulated panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do SIPs react to fire?
SIP panels have been independently tested and achieve 30- and 60-minute fire ratings depending on the wall build-up and internal lining specification. A key element of fire safety is protecting the SIP structure with appropriate thermal barriers such as gypsum plasterboard. For example, a single 12.5 mm fire plasterboard lining on the SBS SIP panel can achieve a 60-minute fire rating.
How do SIPs save so much labour?
SIPs are manufactured efficiently and to high quality and accuracy in SIP Build UK factory. They are transported direct to site in much larger dimensional sizes than other building materials. Erection is fast and easy using SIP Build UK spline jointing system that rigidly locks the panels together. The building is weather proof faster and other subcontractors can get a head start on the work that needs to be done.
What are the options for external finishes?
Almost total choice from bricks, natural stone, brick tiles, polymer and cement renders, timber cladding and metal cladding and probably some we haven’t listed!!!!
Who can design SIPs?
Professionals are increasingly aware of SIPs and there should be no problem designing a building from scratch to use SIPs or modifying an existing design. SIP Build UK and its partner companies will be happy to provide technical advice and support to professionals and self-builders.
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 UK is always available to give advice.
Are SIPs houses covered by warranty schemes?
All the companies offering warranty schemes accept SIPs construction. A well-designed and constructed SIPs house should have a life expectancy equal to present types of construction. In addition, most lenders are able to offer mortgages on SIPs houses.
How long do SIP buildings last?
A well-designed and properly constructed SIP building should have a life expectancy comparable to traditional forms of construction.
As with any building system, long-term durability depends on good design, correct detailing and proper installation of the building envelope.
Are SIP houses mortgageable?
Yes. SIP construction is accepted by major structural warranty providers and most lenders are able to offer mortgages on SIP houses.
As with any property purchase, mortgage availability depends on the individual lender and the overall project design and certification.
What foundation should be used?
Any foundation construction can be used, however the finished level tolerance should be within ±5 mm to ensure accurate erection of the SIP panels.
What is the best heating system for a SIPs house?
Any conventional heating system can be used although SIPs are also ideally suited for more innovative and energy efficient solutions. Your ventilation strategy will have a big impact on your heating decision but we would generally advise a mechanical vented heat recovery system be installed (MVHR).
Can services be installed in the Sip Walls?
No. The SIP panel is a thermally efficient airtight product that is better without services running through. We would always recommend the use of a counter batten to create a service void for the services to be positioned in.
Why are sips so popular now?
With increasing energy costs and higher performance standards required to meet Building Regulations, SIPs are widely recognised as an efficient way to achieve these requirements.
SIP construction provides a thermally efficient, airtight and lightweight structure that is manufactured offsite under factory-controlled conditions and installed quickly on site as a modern method of construction.
Will I need to use MVHR?
All new homes need a supply of fresh air not just for the health and comfort of the occupants, but also to control condensation, remove pollutants and to ensure efficient operation of various appliances. We do recommend the use of MVHR but this will need to be discussed with main designer of the building.
What OSB specification is used in SIP panels?
12mm Structural Grade 3 OSB facings. 15mm can also be used however the structural strength differential is negligible.
What insulation core is used in SIP panels?
Rigid thermoset PUR core (lambda 0.028).
Do you supply structural calculations for Building Control?
Yes. Structural calculations are supplied as part of the engineering design to support Building Control approval.
Who carries the design liability for a SIP project?
We are responsible for the design, engineering and installation of the SIP superstructure as per our contract project price document.
Are your structural engineers in-house or external?
External, we have worked closely with them for over a decade.
What joist systems are used in SIP floors?
Typically a metal open web joist, size is determined by spans and loadings.
Can SIP floor systems support screeded floors with underfloor heating?
Yes – very much standard procedure on modern dwellings.
Can SIP roofs support solar panels?
Yes. SIP roof structures can be engineered to support solar panel arrays as part of the overall building design.
Are your SIP panels BBA certified?
Yes, BBA approved, STA Gold, ISO9001 and Premier Guarantee / LABC system approved.
Are SIP systems accepted by NHBC and LABC Warranty providers?
NHBC – Yes
LABC Warranty – Yes (LABC system approval).
What is a SIP panel made from?
A SIP panel is a fully insulated structural panel consisting of a rigid PUR insulation core sandwiched between two OSB/3 facings. The OSB provides structural strength while the insulation core provides thermal performance.
SIP panels are manufactured under factory-controlled conditions and delivered to site ready for installation as part of the building superstructure.
Why are SIP buildings so thermally efficient?
SIP panels combine structure and insulation in a single engineered element. The rigid PUR insulation core and precision-manufactured panel joints help reduce thermal bridging and air leakage within the building envelope.
This allows very low U-values to be achieved and helps create an airtight building structure with excellent thermal performance.
How quickly can a SIP structure be erected?
Because SIP panels are manufactured offsite and delivered ready for installation, large sections of the building structure can be installed quickly once the foundations are complete.
This allows the building envelope to become weather-tight sooner, enabling follow-on trades to begin work earlier and helping maintain a predictable construction programme.
Still need assistance?
If our frequently asked questions do not answer your enquiry, please do get in touch with us so that we can assist you further. Contact Us
You may also find relevant information on our group site at www.sbukgroup.co.uk
