In any construction project, there is always a need to employ methods that will ensure continuous insulation. Insulation maintains a comfortable indoor environment through changing seasons. One of the latest techniques used in constructions today is using structurally insulated panels or SIPs for building walls, floors, roofs, and ceilings. The basic structure of a SIP consists of a polystyrene foam sandwiched between oriented strand boards. When these boards are laminated, the resulting insulated panel is twice as strong as a regular frame wall. However, before you build with SIPs panels UK constructors use, here is what you can expect.
Downsizing HVAC systems
Because SIPs provide superb installation, the home uses a lot less energy for heating. That also means that there are fewer carbon emissions and less fuel consumed. As such, the air-tight envelope created by SIPs require smaller HVAC equipment. Part of the construction process requires working closely with an HVAC professional to plan the right HVAC sizing. If the HVAC equipment is too big, it will continue to perform below its intended capacity. Conversely, if the HVAC equipment is too small, it will create short cycling which will lead to increased wear and tear.
Improved air quality
Every construction material has some degree of volatile compounds which affect air quality. In addition to this, if the structure is not airtight, there is a greater possibility of outside air and pollutants contaminating indoor air. SIP building panels create a completely air-tight structure where there is minimal possibility of external contaminants getting in. SIPs also release virtually no volatile compounds harmful to the health. Moreover, since you have better control of air quality, the walls are less prone to mould growth and dust mite proliferation.
Sustainable building method
The structural skins of SIPs consist of Oriented Strand Board. These boards come from small fast-growing trees harvested from plantations. Manufacturing SIPs does not require using old-growth or hardwood trees. Wood scraps are recycled to create oriented strand boards used in SIPs. Virtually all scraps in SIPs manufacturing plants are recycled to eliminate waste. This method ensures sustainability of materials while also guaranteeing the highest quality standards.
Requires less labour
Because SI panels are prefabricated, you can build an entire home in half the time. If the contractor has the proper training in constructing with SIPs, you’ll cut down on labour time and costs. Entire walls, roofs, and panels can be installed in less time and labourers have fewer tasks to complete once the panels are put up and secured.
Because of the benefits mentioned above, building with SIPs is becoming increasingly popular. However, you need to keep in mind that there are building regulations you must comply with when using pre-fabricated SIPs. Always enquire about these regulations before proceeding with building a home using SIPs. Moreover, your contractor should have adequate training and up-to-date knowledge because building with SIPs is a relatively new technology, and not all contractors may have the required expertise or experience.