Structurally Insulated Panel

SIPs, or Structurally Insulated Panels, are composed of two outer layers of oriented strand board (OSB) that encase a construction-grade expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam core. These composite panels are not only robust and lightweight but also exceptionally strong—up to seven times stronger than a traditional timber frame. SIPs offer superior insulation and airtightness, resulting in a structure that requires less energy to heat and provides improved air quality for occupants. Discover more about the eco-benefits and project advantages they can bring to your build.

Since the 1950s, SIP panels have been widely used in the USA, Canada, Japan, and Europe, where they have become a mainstream material for home construction. Now, SIPs are gaining popularity in the UK, driven by increasing interest in sustainability, rising energy costs, and a shift towards utilizing local construction and manufacturing companies.

Constructing property walls, roofs, and suspended floors using SIPs as the structural element is quick, straightforward, and cost-effective. Timber or SIP splines between the panels ensure a structurally sound framed system, with the panels secured to the footings via a timber sole plate and to the ceiling via a timber ring beam. This method eliminates the risk of compression shrinkage or cold bridging typically associated with stud walls and other traditional construction techniques.