Why build with SIPS?
Could structural insulated panels be the most suitable system for your self build?
Structural insulated panels come with a range of benefits – learn what they are and how you could make the most of them
Structural insulated panels, usually referred to as just SIPS, are manufactured off-site and formed of two layers of orientated strandboard that sandwich a highly insulated rigid core. The preinsulated timber components offer ultra-swift build speeds and excellent thermal performance, as well as a host of other benefits – here are the key considerations:
1 Design versatility
Your SIPS will be manufactured bespoke for your home, meaning the options in terms of looks are only limited by your imagination. This method has been used to create strikingly contemporary homes, but also traditional style properties boasting rural charm, so it’s down to you and your designer to come up with the best solution.
The panels can be created in wide spans to develop features like high vaulted ceilings. As with timber frame, the thin profile means you can maximise space on smaller plots. SIPS benefit from a flat finish, meaning you can clad the building in whatever material you like, hence it’s often difficult to spot if a house has been built using this method.
2 Guaranteed energy efficiency
Having unbroken insulation already in place means SIPS boast strong thermal performance and airtightness, as well as relatively little thermal bridging. In fact, SIPS are a good choice for Passivhaus projects and similarly ultralow-energy builds. You’ll need to install a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) system to ensure good air quality in what’s going to be an airtight property. Well-designed and built, this high-performance structural makeup translates into a pleasant internal environment all year round, so you should benefit from reduced heating bills.
3 Can be used for roofs & lofts
The makeup of SIPS mean they are super strong and capable of carrying significant loads, so they’re perfect for large living spaces and can be used to create habitable roof structures. It’s unlikely that you’ll need the internal braces usually required for load-bearing support, which means you can benefit from loft rooms free from awkwardly placed supports, plus fully exposed vaulted ceilings.
4 Partner with other building techniques
One of the main benefits of self building is that it offers you design flexibility; so you might mix structural systems for better value and to enable specific features. SIPS is a great partner for other build methods as it’s fairly straightforward to combine. For instance, you can use them to encapsulate an oak frame, allowing the structure to benefit from the characterful exposed beams whilst still achieving excellent thermal performance. Another popular option is to have a timber frame or masonry building with a SIPS roof.
5 You can make it easy to extend
It’s fairly simple to extend a building formed of structural insulated panels at a later date if the right future-proofing provisions have been designed in. As long as you’re aware which walls are load-bearing then you can knock them down and re-configure the layout quite easily. Having a factory made structure means you can refer back to the plans and understand what elements can be changed.