Self-build
is a cost-effective option with Hemsec Sips
Discerning
individuals looking to create the home of their dreams at a realistic
cost are focusing increasingly on the SIPs technology (Structural
Insulated Panels) option.
Hemsec Sips –
one of Europe’s most experienced SIPs manufacturer –
have witnessed a spiralling interest in their niche self-build
service. With materials costs around half of the traditional ‘bricks
and blocks’ route, and construction times also cut by half,
this is hardly surprising.
Although SIPs technology
has been around for at least 50 years, it is only recently that
technological advances have provided the quality, performance
and value for money that will appeal to the mass market.
The structural strength
of new generation SIPs has meant that this timber-based construction
method has eliminated the need for expensive steel frameworks.
Add to this the huge cost savings which accrue from off-site manufacture
and quick on-site erection, and the growing popularity of SIPs
is easy to understand.
Made from timber OSB
3 facings with a core material of fire-retardant polyurethane
foam, SIPs panels are used for walls, floors or roofs. Complete
sections can be pre-made at the factory to include dormer windows,
porches, bay windows and so on. Panels can be supplied as single
modules or as fully-engineered Ready To Assemble (RTA) solutions.
Commenting on the reduced
reliance on bricks, mortar and timber framing, Hemsec Sips Managing
Director, Richard Daley, said:
“Using SIPs,
an average-size three-bedroom house requires only 60 to 80 panels
compared to the thousands of items used in conventional construction.
Obviously, this reduces labour and materials costs, as well as
cutting construction times.”
Other areas where the
economics of SIPs technology are impressive include:
• Insulation
levels well in excess of Building Regulations’ requirements.
• An airtight structure which reduces energy loss and cuts
fuel costs.
• High quality factory-engineered panels which reduce the
need for costly
post- construction remedial work.
• The creation of valuable living space within the roof
areas
(thanks to SIPs panels needing no trusses.)
• The thinner walls of SIPs panels where internal space
is maximised.
As well as offering
a wide range of external cladding to create an attractive-looking
home, Hemsec Sips are able to provide a range of forward-looking
safety, security and environmental design features. These include
inbuilt water management systems which re-cycle rain water for
use within the home; automatic sprinklers to supplement smoke
alarms; and a range of inter-connected security features.
To start the ball rolling
– once product choices have been made – self-build
clients simply submit their detailed plans and Hemsec Sips will
prepare CAD drawings and instruct a structural engineer prior
to manufacture and assembly.
Erecting the building
can be organised by the client – or Hemsec Sips will either
appoint an approved contractor or provide on-site assembly training.
More details about
Hemsec Sips self-build homes – and details of ‘Green
Mortgages’ – can be found on the company’s web-site:
www.hemsecsips.com
Ends Dec 2005
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