Frequently Asked Questions

What are SIPS?

SIPS is an acronym for Structural Insulated Panel System. Joining high performance rigid polyurethane foam insulation to oriented strand board, (OSB), produces these engineered building components. The result is a building product that is predictable, resource efficient and cost effective. SIPS are used as walls and roofs on all types of buildings.

Is the SIP technology new in the UK?

No. The first Structural Insulated Panel house was built in the UK around 1995; however SIPs have been used
worldwide since the 1950s. The first SIP house was built in 1952 in Michigan, USA.

Will a house built with Structural Insulated Panels last?

Yes. Timber frame houses have been built in the UK since the 19th century, many of which are still going strong now, a SIP house will still be there for your great, grand children to enjoy ... and many years beyond.

The panels will have comparable durability to that of OSB/3 to BS EN 300 : 1997 therefore, provided the installation remains weathertight, a life of at least 60 years may be expected.

How do Structural Insulated Panels react to fire?

The Build It Green Structural Insulated Panels meet the building regulations requirements with regard to fire resistance when lined with fire-resistant plasterboard.

Their solid-core construction eliminates the 'chimney effect' that causes fires to spread rapidly through hollow conventional-built walls.

How will the Structural Insulated Panels be delivered to site?

Deliveries will be made via an appropriate sized vehicle. Customers should make prior arrangements with us for the unloading and storage of the panels, where possible, we would recommend that a telescopic handler be hired for the off-loading of panels from the delivery vehicle.

Do I need a crane / lifting equipment and scaffolding for the panels to be installed?

When installing the wall panels, a crane or telescopic handler is not needed for individual panels as they are light enough to be lifted and manoeuvred into place. A crane or telescopic handler is required when wall or roof panels are joined together on the ground and installed as an entire section.

Installing roof panels will always require a crane or telescopic handler of appropriate size.

Scaffolding is to be erected around three sides of the building before we arrive on site to erect the building. The scaffolding company should then return to complete the installation once the erectors are at first floor level. The scaffolding can be erected far enough away from the frame so that it can stay up and be used by the other trades such as brick-layers and roofers.

On receipt of an order, a site survey will be carried out by one of our representatives to determine the necessary equipment to be used.

Does the SIP building system need a vapour barrier?

Calculations in accordance with BS 5250: 1989 (Control of Condensation in Buildings) shows no requirement for a vapour control layer with the Structural Insulated Panels, however buildings have a tendency to alter their psychrometric conditions (% Relative Humidity) through change of use and therefore, it is always good practice to install a vapour control layer (VCL). This can be installed in the conventional manner, with polythene, or by using foil backed plasterboard.

Are Structural Insulated Panels vulnerable to insects and pests?

No. The Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) / Hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) free rigid Expanded Polyurethane (PUR) core of the Build It Green Structural Insulated Panels resist attacks by mould and microbial growth and does not provide food value to vermin.

Do SIPs come pre-framed with windows and doors?

No. The design flexibility of Structural Insulated Panels makes it easy install any number of windows and door combinations. The openings are pre-cut in the factory ready for the installation of your windows and doors.

Build It Green can supply & fit a triple glazed window and door package. For further details please see Associated Products: Windows and Doors.

What mortgage options are available when building using Structural Insulated Panels?

The 'Build It Green SIP Building System' is a certified product of the British Board of Agrément (BBA) which is recognised by the main warranty providers such as NHBC. With a structural warranty most lenders are able to offer mortgages. For further information on self build mortgages please visit Build Store at www.buildstore.co.uk.

What Is a U-Value?

To put it simply, U-Value measures the rate of heat loss through the roof, external walls and ground floor of a building. Thus in all aspects of home design one should strive for the lowest U-Values possible because the lower the U-value - the less heat that is needlessly escaping.

The calculation of U-values can be rather complex - it is measured as the amount of heat lost through a one square meter of the material for every degree difference in temperature either side of the material. It is indicated in units of Watts per Meter Squared per Degree Kelvin or W/m²K.

Build It Green Structural Insulated Panels can achieve U-Values as low as 0.14 (W/m²K) or better for walls and roofs.

Build It Green meets future standards today!

Can I use my existing Architect?

Yes. We can also supply our own recommended architect if you don't have one yourself, allowing you to take full advantage of the construction and space enhancing benefits of SIPS.

Is achieving building control approval a problem?

No. SIPs are a fully accepted building technology. We are happy to liaise with Building Control to ensure a smooth approval process.

What foundations can be used?

Any foundation can be used, however the slab should be dimensional accurate, square and level to ensure the most efficient erection of the Build It Green SIP Building System.