Tag: energyefficient

Architecture & Building, Materials

Frequently Asked Things About SIP Panels: Get To Know

17th November 20210

What is a SIP panel?  

A structural insulated panel (SIP) is a sandwich structured composite. Consisting of an insulating layer of rigid core sandwiched between two layers of structural board, used as a building material.  

The board can be sheet metal, plywood, cement, magnesium oxide board, or oriented strand board. In addition, the core can either be polystyrene foam, extruded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam or be composite honeycomb.  

How sustainable are SIPs?  

Structural insulated panels are one of the most environmentally responsible building systems available. They are constructed offsite and the elements are fully manufactured in a controlled environment. This minimises the loose materials sent to the site you are balancing the risk of waste. Also, all of the materials used in the manufacture and construction are recyclable.  

Installing and longevity of SIP panels –  

When using SIP panels, the build speeds are a lot quicker than the normal construction methods. This is due to the number of elements you need for a build. The panels just need slotting together, once they have need delivered.

The life span of structural insulated panels usually lasts around 60+ years. This is because they are a high-performing system that is extremely strong.  

Are SIPs cost-effective?  

SIP panels are usually the same or sometimes less expensive than using other building systems. They are known to be 90% more energy-efficient than a traditional home. This is because of all of the insulation and airtightness they provide. The panels are also a cheaper option because there will not be many construction and labour costs.  

Advantages and disadvantages –  

SIP panels have many pros and cons, and they are the type of product you should investigate before committing to them on your project.  

Advantages –  

  • They are considered to be up to 6 times stronger than a timber frame.  
  • Can me manufactured off site – this means the build will be less costly and will take less time to construct.  
  • Fire resistant – they have tested to offer 73 minutes of resistance, which exceeds British fire safety regulation.  
  • Highly thermal – they have also tested to outperform fibre insulation. 

Disadvantages –  

  • Require additional ventilation – this is because of the heat trapped inside. To avoid built up condensation you need to use the vents.
  • It is harder for changes to be made once you have decided on the design of you SIP home.
  • Need additional airflow sources – because of the tight seal you need more airflow. If not, the walls can become damp, and even mouldy.  
  • Relatively new to the UK – therefore, finding professional builders with experience can be hard.  
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Building A Conservatory On A Budget: Ways How To Save Money

29th October 20210

If you are looking to add a valuable asset to your home, conservatories are the way to go. However, if you are trying to stay within a budget there are ways you can achieve a well-designed project. Some conservatories can reach up to £75,000 although, there are ways to get one done for as little as £5,000.  

Here are some ways to save money on a conservatory. 

Create a DIY conservatory –  

One of the best ways to save money on creating and installing a conservatory is by doing it yourself. While this is a much cheaper option, the process is complicated and can cause a lot of stress. 

You’ll need to build every element on your own, from the foundation to the roofing. As well as this you will have to make sure your design is within permitted development. Otherwise, you will have to spend more money on planning permission.  

Choose a cheaper type of conservatory –  

 There are a lot of options when it comes to the type and size of the project you want to create. You can decrease the costs by being careful with the size of the new space.  

For example, you could do a flat-roof and squared-off build to reduce the number of materials. However, if you use double glazing and slimline frames it lets the natural light flood in.  

If you design a conservatory with a fully tiled roof and partial brick wall instead of glass, be expected to pay more. Whereas, you can get simple lean-to frames that are not that expensive.  

 Choose uPVC over aluminium  

 UPVC offers a great balance between durability and price. It is a cheaper price than aluminium but it isn’t far off when it comes to performance. UPVC gives you as much flexibility and energy-saving potential. You can ger recyclable uPVC, meaning you can also help the environment while you cut the cost of your conservatory.  

Decide what it’s going to be used for first –  

Make sure you know how you are going to be using the conservatory. So, you don’t payout for any unnecessary features you don’t need.   

You should think about what you will use it for and when you are spending the most time in it. If you only use it on hot days in the summer you might not need as many electrical sockets. And if you use it all year you may consider adding underfloor heating.  

Use energy-efficient double glazing –  

A crucial way of saving money is to make sure you are using energy-saving materials. A way of doing this is by getting double glazing windows which increases the insulation and reduces energy usage.  

Double glazing works to create a thermal barrier for your space, pairing with the frames to give you air and water tightness. Because of this, you can stay comfortable in your space without relying on heating.  

Small Conservatories - Small conservatory range | Anglian Home

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