Modular Buildings

This nursery in Cumbria was a challenging build; the site is in a conservation area and on top of the World Heritage Site of a Hadrian's Wall Roman Fort, so it was essential not only that the completed build had a traditional aesthetic, but also that the building did not in any way damage the archaeological heritage of the site.

The solution was to use a modular building method, using a steel frame in place of traditional foundations and SIPs Industries panels to provide a lightweight and strong shell for the building.  The project was carried out in conjunction with Reiver Lodges and EcoEstates.

Build Cost Calculator

Homebuilding and Renovating has published a Self Build Project Cost Guide, which provides guidance on working out a ball park figure for your project.  You can see the full article here.

 

Self Build Action Plan

A new report has been drawn up by representatives of the self-build industry in the UK which highlights the main challenges faced by the current self-build industry.  The report concludes that the current market needs to be made more accessible, with a well managed network of advice, case studies and reliable sources of information.

You can read the full report - 'An action plan to promote the growth of self build housing (The report of the Self Build Government-industry Working Group: July 2011)' -  here (PDF).

In the News

There's an interesting article on the Mortgage Strategy website regarding mortgages for houses built with non-traditional methods. 

Jason Orme of Homebuilding & Renovating  Magazine looks at the issue of lenders who are not up to speed on new building technologies and therefore are reluctant to provide funds.

 

You can read the full article here.

In the News

There's an interesting blog post by Al Cobb of the SIPSchool in the US about the importance of the installation team in ensuring that the SIPs kit functions as it is supposed to. 

You can read the full blog post here.

Completed Projects

The Fife Primary School shown in this post has now been completed, and is in use.  We managed to get a few photographs once all the pupils had gone home for the day.  The building looks fantastic both inside and out, and it's great to hear positive feedback from the staff.

Building and Construction Industry Forum AGM

SIPs Industries will be giving a talk at the BCIF AGM on 30^th March.

 

Formed in 2003 to provide various services for the support of businesses in the construction sector, the BCIF has grown in strength and numbers and is now an Eildon Enterprise service, providing practical advice and support via seminars, workshops and courses across the South of Scotland.  More details can be found on their website http://www.bcif.org.uk/.

The presentation on SIPs panels is aimed at people who are familiar with building but not familiar with SIPs and their uses. It will focus on how SIPs meet and exceed current building regs and include details of how trades follow on. The examples will include a house built in Peebles, extension to a school in Fife and other Scottish builds that are relevant to the Borders. Samples of SIPs Panels and connection details will also be available. This presentation will appeal to those based in the office and on the ground.

The AGM will be held at Borders College, Netherdale, Galashiels, TD1 3HE and will run from 5 – 6.30pm approx.

Completed Projects



SIPs Kit on the way to completion May 2009



SIPs Kit on the way to completion May 2009

SIPs Industries provided the SIPs Kit for this training centre back in May 2009.  The client wanted a dedicated centre to provide on-site training apprentices and other staff.  The training centre was officially opened in November 2009, more details  can be found here.