
SIP panels (structural insulated panels) consist of a high performance rigid insulation core integrally sandwiched between layers of Oriented Strand Board (OSB). The panels can be used to create external and internal walls, roofs and floors. They’re precision engineered and pre-fabricated in the factory, shipped to site and installed using a unique jointing system in conjunction with traditional carpentry. The resulting highly insulated structure is quick to assemble and easy to fix to for follow-on trades. It is significantly stronger than traditional timber frame and can withstand extreme climates. Our SIP system holds Agreement Technique European (ATE) certification.
The panels create a fully airtight structure which is highly insulated and loses minimal heat. When combined with other eco systems our chalets are almost passive with minimal heating bills and energy usage. Because the heat is retained we can use energy efficient air source heat pumps to ensure a consistent temperature. SIP structures are designed to work with mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems that ensure constant fresh air without losing heat. The annual heating and domestic hot water bills of our recent completed chalets of over 200m2 are less than €700.
Not only will you save money on future household bills, SIP construction comes with other economies. The structure is installed in a matter of days so labour costs are reduced and hardly any on-site waste is created. The panels are easy to fix to, resulting in quicker follow-on trades.
We take immense pride in our partnership with SIP Europe, a leader in manufacturing SIP panels and timber frames committed to quality and environmental sustainability. Utilising specialised software, they calculate the carbon footprint of each project, consistently achieving a negative carbon footprint ranging from -12,000 to -30,000 kg of CO2.
Our collaboration extends to their expert SIP engineers in Slovakia, ensuring each structure aligns with the architect’s vision while optimising timber use and minimising waste.
A SIP shell is much stronger than a conventional timber frame construction because instead of having the weight of the structure divided between a few timber studs, the whole envelope of the building shares the load.
Prefabricated, lightweight panels can be easily manoeuvered, allowing for much quicker construction - even on difficult mountain sites. Sip panels are easily manoeuvred by hand on site. Roof panels are placed by manitou or crane.
Buildings made of SIP panels (structural insulated panels) provide 7-10% more usable area than conventional buildings, because the panels are thinner than traditional walls and already contain insulation, so inhabitants gain a more spacious interior.
The insulation embedded into the SIP panels means they retain heat in winter and keep the building cool in summer. Because the insulation is in the panel’s core, rather than an additional element, it is not vulnerable to moisture.
SIP Europe and the SE-SIP construction system are holders of the European Technical Assessment ETA 18/0312. The manufacturing process is subject to regular inspection and a 50-year certified warranty is provided.
The in-built insulation in SIP panels, plus use of other eco- friendly systems like heat pumps as well as mechanical ventilation and heat recovery, can help reduce your household bills significantly - even in extreme climates.
SIP panels are made to measure in the factory and cut in the most economical way designed to minimise waste. Therefore, almost no waste is produced on-site.
The SIP system is perfect for individual and atypical building shapes, with large open plan spans, as well as traditional styles. The properties of the panels and their strength mean the design possibilities are almost limitless.
The SIP structure has a negative carbon footprint due to the manufacturing process and the use of recyclable materials. The EPS foam insulation has zero Ozone Depletion Potential.
We use certified KVH and BSH structural timber in strength class C24 and up to GL32h, wooden bonded I-joists or CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) panels. Combined with traditional carpentry we can create Alpine chalets with exposed beams, or create a completely modern look with large open span CLT unsupported floors. Structural timbers can be upgraded from solid to glulam pine or we can use larch, douglas fir or oak.

