UltraSIPS LearnSIP University
A learning hub that turns first-time visitors into confident SIP decision makers.
Introduction to SIPs
2 lessons in this track
What are Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)?
Imagine building a house with LEGO blocks that are already insulated, airtight, and stronger than brick.
Pros and Cons of SIPs in the UK
SIPs aren't perfect for every build. Here is the honest truth about costs, lead times, and on-site challenges.
Technical Performance
2 lessons in this track
Understanding U-Values & Part L Regulations
Part L building regulations are getting tighter. Here is how SIPs help you hit 0.18 W/m²K without thickening your walls.
Airtightness and MVHR
Building airtight is great for energy bills, but dangerous for air quality if you don't ventilate. Enter MVHR.
Costs & Finance
1 lessons in this track
UltraSIPS University: Builder Education with SIPs
10 lessons in this track
Lesson 1: Introduction to SIPs
Meet the panel system that changed build speed, airtightness, and structural performance.
Lesson 2: Basic Design & Engineering
Design to the panel grid, choose the right splines, and map load paths early.
Lesson 3: The Order Process
Turn a sketch into a labeled kit with a clean, repeatable order workflow.
Lesson 4: Building Science
Airtightness, dew point, and moisture control for SIP envelopes.
Lesson 5: SIP Layout Drawings
Read layouts like a checklist and sign off with confidence.
Lesson 6: Site Planning
Foundation tolerances, crane access, and staging for fast installs.
Lesson 7: Panel Installation
A repeatable install sequence that keeps panels plumb and airtight.
Lesson 8: Mechanical Systems
Plan services early to protect structure and airtightness.
Lesson 9: Finish Materials
Cladding, roofing, and interior linings that protect the envelope.
Lesson 10: Common Objections
Clear, evidence-based responses to cost, lead time, and performance concerns.
Standard Details (SD): Junction-by-junction
28 lessons in this track
SD-01: Preparation of the rebates to accept capping timbers
Prep rebates and capping timbers so joints close tight and stay airtight.
SD-02: SIP External Corner Abutment
Form a clean external corner with the right adhesive, sealant, and fixings.
SD-03: Rebate Preparation for Solid Timber Splines
Assemble solid/built-up timber splines with continuous adhesive and correct fixing.
SD-04: Rebate Preparation for SIP Splines
Use SIP splines and joint tolerance correctly so long runs stay true.
SD-05: Wall Panel Connections
Understand common wall joint options and typical centre spacing.
SD-06: SIP Soleplate Connection
Set soleplate, DPC, and springing level so the whole build starts straight.
SD-07: Studwork Soleplate Connection
Base rail/soleplate layout for studwork adjacent to SIP structure.
SD-08: Typical Column Base Connection
A quick reference for column base setting, grout, and fixings to spec.
SD-09: Abutment of Non-Loadbearing Studwork to SIP Wall
Fix non-loadbearing studwork to a SIP wall cleanly without compromising airtightness.
SD-10: Abutment of Loadbearing Studwork to SIP Wall
Connect loadbearing studwork to SIPs with the correct reinforcement and fixing zones.
SD-11: Typical Internal Stud Wall Intersection
Join internal stud walls at intersections with proper backing for linings.
SD-12: Standard Internal Timber Frame Corner Detail
Build internal TF corners that stay straight and take linings cleanly.
SD-13: Structural Stud Reinforcement for Point Loads
Reinforce the stud zone where concentrated point loads land on the wall line.
SD-14: Typical Stud Partition Intersection
A practical intersection detail for stud partitions with correct backing and alignment.
SD-15: Standard Perpendicular Joist Hanger Detail
Support floor joists that run perpendicular to the SIP wall line (hangers + blocking).
SD-16: Floor Joist Arrangement (Parallel to SIP Wall)
Floor edge arrangement when joists run parallel to the SIP wall, including edge support.
SD-17: Steel Beam Bearing on SIP Wall
Bearing, packing, and hold-down strategy when a steel beam bears into SIPs.
SD-18: Steel Beam Bearing on Timber Frame Wall
A reference for steel beam pockets/bearing within timber frame wall lines.
SD-19: Floor Joist Arrangement Parallel to Timber Ring Beam
Joist arrangement where the floor build-up runs parallel to a timber ring beam.
SD-20: Top Chord Bearing Joist Connection to Timber Ring Beam
Top-chord bearing joist connection detail at the ring beam line.
SD-21: Partition Head Connection (Perpendicular to Joists)
Head connection that allows for floor deflection without cracking finishes.
SD-22: Partition Head Connection (Perpendicular to Joists) — Steel Beam
Partition head detail where a steel beam is present—check downstand depth and fixing zones.
SD-23: Roof Panel Ridge Junction
Ridge build-up for SIP roof panels: fillets, packing, adhesive, and fixing strategy.
SD-24: Roof to Wall Eaves Connection
Eaves junction detailing so roof panels seat consistently along the wall line.
SD-25: Typical Verge Connection Detail
Form a straight verge/gable edge with the correct screw pattern and adhesive lines.
SD-26: Standard Window Jamb Connection
Window jamb build-up: cavity, fire stopping, membranes, and fixing zones.
SD-27: Standard Window Cill Connection
Window cill detail with continuous DPC and cavity/fire-stop coordination.
SD-28: Standard Window Head Connection
Window head detail with lintels, cavity trays, fire stopping, and drainage control.
Reference Library
1 lessons in this track
Certificates & Rewards
Earn a downloadable certificate for each completed track. Finish them all to unlock 5% off your build cost.
Certificates use the full name saved on your UltraSIPS account.
Introduction to SIPs
Technical Performance
Costs & Finance
UltraSIPS University: Builder Education with SIPs
Reference Library
SIP University Graduate
Complete every track to unlock your graduate certificate and a 5% build-cost discount code.
5% off build cost
Finish every track while signed in to generate your unique 5% University completion code.