What are SIPs?

SIPs or Structurally Insulated Panels consist of two outer layers of oriented strand board (OSB) sandwiched around a construction-grade expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam core. Each composite panel is robust, lightweight and extremely strong – up to seven times stronger than a timber frame. SIPs are incredibly well insulated and airtight, resulting in a structure that required less energy to heat and one that provides better air quality for the user – learn more about the eco-benefits and the project benefits they can bring to your project.

SIP panels have been used in the USA, Canada, Japan and Europe since the 1950s where they have become a mainstream building material for constructing homes. Now, SIPs are becoming increasingly popular here in the UK due to the rising interest in sustainability, the ever-rising price of energy, and a drive towards using more local construction and manufacturing companies.

Building with SIPs as the structural element for property walls, roofs and suspended floors is quick, easy and cost-effective. Timber or SIPs splines between the panels ensure a structurally sound framed system with panels fixed to the footings via a timber sole plate and to the ceiling via a timber ring beam. There’s no risk of compression shrinkage or cold bridging that is normally associated with stud walls and other traditional methods.