SIPs Extensions
What are SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels)?
SIPs are an eco-friendly building system that comprises of a foam core laminated to OSB (orientated strand board). It can be used to form walls and roofs and is up to 7 times stronger than traditional methods. It boasts incredible thermal properties along with faster build times and reduced waste.
SIPs vs traditional building methods:
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Thinner with better thermal values.
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Stronger structure - more resiliant to movement.
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Much faster to erect (days not weeks).
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No roof trusses needed leaving clean vaulted ceilings.
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Faster for all follow-on trades. First fix electrics and plumbing can commence almost immediately.
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Unrivalled design flexibility.
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Offsite precision engineered.
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Using SIPs gives a predictable build programme.
01
Case Study - High Performance SIPs Extension
The Brief
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Create a 66m2 space comprising of a family games room, bootroom, utility and small WC.
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Building is to be very thermally efficient
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Modern and striking in appearance
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Contrast to the old existing property on the rear, but to blend in from the front.
02
Planning Permission
We achieved planning permission without compromising the design.
03
SIPs design Stage
Once the overall scheme was decided, the SIPs structure was designed to provide the shell of the extension.
04
Detail design Stage
As the overall scheme came together, we moved onto the design of the additional insulation and glazing. This was all designed to be as thermally efficient as possible. By lining the 142mm SIPs panels with 75mm PIR insulation, the walls can be made more than twice as efficient as a cavity brick wall which would still have been thicker. Extra insulation was specified for the roof and floor too. All of the windows are triple glazed. This building will need only minimal heat input.
SIPs can be clad in virtually any material, from brick slips right through to open rainscreen, which is what was chosen for this project.
The final specification for the build was complete and building regulations approval was sought.
05
The Build
The groundworks took about three weeks to complete, the SIPs panels were delivered and erected in only one week. Immediately, the façade and waterproofing could commence. The whole building was completed on the exterior in a matter of weeks before the internal fitout could commence.
