Recognising Poor or Sub-Standard SIP Panels

Sub-standard panels are those which do not conform to the basic requirements. In Britain, at this present time, the basic SIP panel is a press formed lamination of two exterior OSBs (oriented strand boards) and a pressure injected foam of Polyurethane. According to the NHBC, a SIP panel should have a minimum expected lifespan of 60 years

The easiest visible identification is that the OSBs are exceptionally thin. Examination of the OSB should reveal a tight compressed board giving the appearance of a glazed over finish without surface indentations. OSB that do not give this appearance are contenders for sub-standard boards and should be more closely examined.

Depending upon the overall panel thickness, the OSBs are normally 10-mm at the thinnest and graded up to 15-mm for thicker walled panels. Sub-standard SIPs are found where the OSBs easily delaminate from the foam or the foam fill is recognised as being powdery or is easily broken down by finger rubbing.

Sub-standard SIPs will also be identified by their not being uniformly flat over their full surface. The majority of SIPs manufacturers produce a product data sheet with the panels specification clearly stated. We DO NOT recommend the polystyrene look-alike as these do not constitute the same or similar structural capabilities as those presented by SIPs.

We only use and source the highest quality SIP panels in our projects. Not only can we design your project, we can also project manage it from start to finish. This takes much of the stress and hassle away from the client. They can rest easy knowing their project is constructed with the highest quality materials and that the process will run as smoothly as possible.

For more information on our design services click here

For more information on our construction services click here

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