Frequently Asked Questions
As a strong, affordable and environmentally responsible solution, Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) have been utilised successfully worldwide for more than 40 years. A SIPS building is constructed by assembling pre-manufactured panels which are heavily insulated, removing the need for additional insulation. The panels are very strong, and can be used for floors and roofs as well as external and internal walls, without the need for a traditional timber frame. Manufacturing equipment at our factory has ensured a consistently high quality of manufacture, fast response and high volume production.
SIPS Industries uses OSB3 board manufactured from sustainable harvested spruce thinning and managed plantations. This timber is vac treated, a process that uses no solvents. The P.V.A. glue used is water based and solvent free. Expanded polystyrene is non-toxic and inert. Expanded polystyrene consists of up to 98% air.
Expanded Polystyrene EPS is manufactured from styrene which is a monomer that has been manufactured on an industrial scale for more than 60 years. It is used in the manufacture of a wide variety of plastics and rubber products. Styrene occurs naturally and can be found in many foods including strawberries, beans, nuts, beer, wine, coffee beans and cinnamon.
During the manufacturing process of EPS a non CFC blowing agent called pentane is used to expand the polystyrene granules into its familiar expanded form.
Pentane is a volatile liquid which is formed by natural processes such as the anaerobic decomposition of plant matter by micro organisms and by the digestive systems of animals. It belongs to the same family as butane, methane etc. which are commonly used as heating fuels.
During the manufacturing process any pentane released is quickly converted in the atmosphere via a photochemical reaction into carbon and water. As it does not contain chlorine, pentane does not damage the ozone layer, unlike CFC (chlorofluorocarbons) and HCFC (hydro chlorofluorocarbons). However the pentane gas emitted during the manufacturing process does contribute to man made emissions of volatile organic compounds, in the region of 0.2%. To put this into perspective, a far larger quantity is released by the decomposition of household waste.
The amount of CO2 gas emitted during the manufacturing process is insignificant. In the case of Sips Industries Panels the CO2 emitted in the EPS manufacture is offset in around one week by the reduced energy requirements of the building. Pentane as a gas is not regarded as a hazard to health.
Expanded polystyrene is non-toxic and inert. Expanded polystyrene consists of up to 98% air.
Expanded polystyrene boards can be recycled and ground into packing cases etc. Processes are being researched which will allow EPS to be recycled back into its original chemical form helping to reduce consumption of natural resources, however this has not been achieved to date.
Panels have passed the rigorous fire endurance tests. Their solid-core construction eliminates the "chimney effect" that causes fires to spread rapidly through hollow conventional-built walls. The super-bonding, insulating foam we use is non-toxic and chemically inert.
The uniformity and one-piece construction of SIPS Industries panels make it much easier to build walls that are straight and plumb. In addition, the two layers of structural board provide each panel with stability, a solid nailing base and increased protection against vandalism, break-ins and tenant damage.
Strand Board is a homogenous wood based panel manufactured from softwood strands compressed and bonded together with exterior grade water resistant resins. The trees used to make OSB are the routine thinning of managed plantations. The manufacturing process utilises virtually 100% of the wood with very little waste. The bark is removed and used as either fuel or for horticulture.
<1%, CAS-No.: 50-00-0, low emission: Emission class E1
Simplicity
- Pre-engineered to construction standards and requirements.
- Panels pre-cut to fit standard size doors and windows.
- Range of roof pitches is offered for architectural flair.
- Variety of set sizes allows practically unlimited design flexibility.
Speed
- Faster construction on site with pre-cut panels.
- Faster delivery as panels are held in stock (an off-the-shelf solution).
- Easier delivery to site as panels are flat packed.
Savings
- A more streamlined, efficient building system requiring less labour and site hours, saving on the labour cost component of the project. (Labour accounts for around 50% of conventional build cost).
- Reduces wastage and excess with pre-cut panels.
- A lesser range of trades is required on site, build time is faster and site clearing is minimal.
- Less hidden costs such as scaffold and equipment hire and rubbish removal.
- Minimises engineering costs with pre-engineered components.
SIPs’ excellent insulation properties make them perfect for the hot Australian climate, as it takes three times as much energy to cool a home than to heat it. New legislation is ensuring that Australian homes are energy efficient increasing the importance of insulation. SIPS Ready Cut™ provides a simple, fast, cost effective solution for builders and home owners.
Globally and in Australia, SIPS panels and construction systems have undergone rigorous structural and engineering testing. They comply fully with Australian building standards and with Building Codes of Australia (BCA).
- Faster build for earlier site lock-up to reduce exposure to theft and weather.
- More usable floor space for same external dimensions as building with other materials.
- Exceptionally long lasting, high performance and low maintenance.
SIPs Industries offers you the option of either supply only or supply and install.
We can work alongside your preferred builder and advise them on the appropriate way to install the panels on site, alternatively, we can send our own team of SIPS installers.
We have documentation that we are able to provide your contractors with further information, and we can also be contacted at the office regarding any installation queries.
SIPs Industries are covered by Public Liability and Products Liability, provided by Integro Insurance BRokers and QBE Insurance.
