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What is a SIP Panel Extension?

A SIP panel extension is a type of home extension that uses structural insulated panels (SIPs) as the main building material. SIPs are prefabricated panels that consist of a core of insulating foam sandwiched between two layers of oriented strand board (OSB). SIPs are strong, lightweight, and energy-efficient, making them an ideal material for home extensions.

While they may seem like a new trend, many commercial buildings are made from SIP panels, and it has been a popular building material for homes in the USA, Europe and Canada since the 1950s.

SIP panel extension

Benefits of SIP Panel Extensions

There are many benefits to using SIPs for home extensions, including:

  • Speed of construction: SIP panel extensions are made to measure off-site and go up quickly once at your property. Construction is not governed by the weather conditions.
  • Less mess and disruption: Because they are lighter in weight they also require a shallower foundation and can even be built on an existing conservatory pad. This means less digging, less mess and much less disruption at your home compared with a traditional brick-and-mortar extension.
  • Kinder to the environment: there’s no need to use concrete which means avoiding carbon displacement associating with digging foundations and backfilling the ground with concrete.
  • Energy efficiency: SIP panels have excellent thermal insulation properties, which can help to reduce your energy bills. Our SIP panels, which are made by Kingspan, has a u-value 0.20 W/m2K or better
  • Strength and durability: SIPs panels are strong and durable, and they can withstand a variety of weather conditions.
  • Design flexibility: SIPs panels can be used to create a wide variety of extension designs. To add to this flexibility, we pair our SIP extensions with the Guardian Warm Roof System which has a range of design options, too, from Velux windows and roof lanterns.

 

Drawbacks of SIP Panel Extensions

There are also a few drawbacks to using SIPs for home extensions, including:

  • Cost: SIPs panels can be more expensive than traditional building materials, however it is important to offset this material costs against labour costs as these will likely be considerably less than a traditional build.
  • Specialised expertise: SIPs construction requires specialised expertise, so it is important to hire a qualified contractor.

 

Overall, SIP panel extensions are a good option for homeowners who are looking for a quick, energy-efficient, and durable way to add space to their home. However, it is important to weigh the costs and benefits carefully before making a decision.

 

Additional Considerations

In addition to the benefits and drawbacks listed above, there are a few other things to consider when deciding whether or not to use SIPs for your home extension:

  • The size and complexity of the extension: SIPs are well-suited for smaller extensions, but they may not be the best choice for larger or more complex projects.
  • Your personal preferences: Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use SIPs for your home extension is a personal one. You should weigh the pros and cons carefully and make the decision that is best for you and your family.

SIP panel extensions are a popular and growing trend in home construction. If you are looking for a quick, energy-efficient, and durable way to add space to your home, SIPs may be a good option for you.

If you live in the Norfolk/ Suffolk area and are interested in having a SIP panel extension, get in touch for a free survey and quote.