SIPs or Structurally Insulated Panels consist of two outer layers of Oriented Strand Board (OSB) sandwiched around an 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.

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.

Building with SIPs as the structural element for property walls, roofs and suspended floors is quick, easy and cost-effective. Timber 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 the compression shrinkage or cold bridging that is normally associated with stud walls and other traditional methods.