An increasing number of architects and construction companies are enquiring about using SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) for the first time, and could be forgiven for thinking that every SIP is the same. However, there are different types of SIPs, size ranges, quality levels and accreditations. Here, we hear from experienced SIPs users who nearly always buy SIPs from leading British manufacturer Hemsec – for very good reasons, as they explain
Iain Macbeath, Macbeath Architects and Thermopassive
Iain first came across SIPs around 20 years ago; he had a building with exposed oak and was looking at various ways of cladding it. He researched the US market and found he could use SIPs as the building envelope itself; the panels were not just for cladding. He started using bulk polystyrene SIPs for the conversion of an old garage.
Then he discovered Hemsec, who were one of the first UK companies to start manufacturing SIPs. Established in 1928, Hemsec already had expertise in metal-faced insulated panels for temperature-controlled environments.
Iain explains one of the reasons that he uses the company’s products for the thermally efficient homes his company is renowned for today: “Hemsec panels are injected with a rigid thermoset polyurethane core at high pressure, which bonds really well. This core is much stronger than polystyrene and makes Hemsec SIPs really stable structurally.”
Iain says: “I believe that Hemsec are best placed to service the needs of the construction industry heading towards new regulations in 2025 and the target of net zero.”
JML SIPs
JML SIPs and Hemsec have worked together for nearly 10 years, with Hemsec manufacturing the SIPs and JML creating low energy homes from them for clients across the UK.
JML works almost exclusively with Hemsec SIPs because of the consistent quality of its panels, its value for money and great customer service.
There is a good range of sizes to support JML’s variety of offerings, too, which include garden rooms as well as homes.
In fact, Hemsec is the only leading UK manufacturer who offers a choice of OSB/3 sizes and manufactures thicker SIP panels than most, meaning that a better thermal performance can be achieved with their SIPs.
JML says it is also important to them that Hemsec manufacturers its panels to a high level of accuracy to ensure that the SIPs provide uniformity and require no additional manipulation.
Neil Farnworth, CEO and founder of Apple Cast
Apple Cast North West is a charity which, amongst other initiatives, is currently helping to train end users and disadvantaged young people how to build with SIPs. Chief executive Neil Farnworth says: “Apple Cast has chosen building with SIPs over any other method of construction because it is more straightforward than traditional construction and creates high quality buildings.
“SIPs are a great material to work with, thanks to their relative simplicity; they are easy to build with, our training can help students gain confidence quickly working with what believe is the ultimate, eco-friendly construction solution.”
For Neil, it is not only SIPs that are key; it is choosing the right manufacturer: “I always work with Hemsec SIPs now. Having tried SIPs from most UK manufacturers, I find that Hemsec’s products are more uniform in size and shape. It is important that we use the best quality product for our SIPs training.”
Stephen Painter is Hemsec’s MD, appointed in 2012 to lead the Liverpool-based family-run firm.
Stephen says: “In the next phase of our journey, the team at Hemsec is committed to achieving net zero carbon construction by supporting the industry to construct better buildings; always putting people first. We are proud to be the SIPs manufacturer of choice to Thermopassive, JML and Apple Cast, as well as many others, and we are committed to helping our partners however we can.”
Call Rob, Kate or Carol on:
Tel: +44 (0151) 426 7171
Hemsec
Twitter: @HemsecPanels
*Please note: this is a commercial profile.
