Thermally efficient cabins and annexes built using Structural Insulated Panels — from foundations to full fit-out, keys in hand.
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are a modern building system consisting of a rigid foam insulation core bonded between two structural facing boards — typically Oriented Strand Board (OSB). The result is a panel that is structurally strong, highly insulated, and faster to build with than traditional timber frame.
At IGE Group, we use SIP construction for garden cabins, annexes, home offices, and any structure where you want a finished, liveable space rather than just a shell. SIP buildings can comfortably achieve the thermal performance needed for year-round habitation — no draughts, low heating bills, comfortable in summer and winter.
We manage the full project: concrete base, SIP panel erection, roof structure, exterior cladding, full interior fit-out including insulation, lining, and decoration, plus first-fix preparation for electrics and plumbing. You receive a completely finished building, ready to use from the day we hand over the keys.
Because SIP panels arrive from the manufacturer pre-cut to specification, the structural shell goes up quickly — allowing us to spend more time on the finish that makes the space genuinely great to be in.
SIP Panel Builds
We work through the layout, room use, window placement, door positions, and finish specification with you before a single panel is ordered.
Reinforced concrete slab prepared and poured to the correct specification for SIP construction — level, strong, and built to last.
Wall and roof panels erected and locked together. The structural shell of a typical cabin can go up in a matter of days, watertight quickly.
Roof panels, felt, battens and final covering installed. Full weatherproofing throughout — flashing, sills, and draught sealing on all openings.
Timber cladding, composite board, or silicone render applied to the exterior. Your choice of style and colour — we advise on what suits the setting.
Internal lining, skimmed or boarded walls, floor finish, skirting, and decoration. First-fix for electrics and plumbing prepared throughout.
We visit the site, assess ground conditions, access, and discuss the full scope of the project with you.
Layout, specification and finish agreed. Full written quote issued — no surprises, no hidden costs.
Concrete slab excavated, formed and poured. Given time to cure properly before panel installation begins.
SIP panels erected, roof installed, windows and doors fitted. Building made watertight before interior work begins.
Interior lined and decorated, exterior clad and sealed. Site cleared and building handed over fully complete.
A Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) is a sandwich-construction building component: a rigid foam core (typically EPS — expanded polystyrene) bonded under pressure between two sheets of Oriented Strand Board (OSB). The result is a panel that is structurally strong enough to form walls and roof, while also providing excellent insulation in a single, uniform layer.
SIPs are used widely in residential construction in the USA and Scandinavia and have become increasingly popular in the UK for both main dwellings and outbuildings where performance matters.
For thermal performance, yes — considerably. A standard 142mm SIP wall panel achieves a U-value well below 0.28 W/m²K, which is the current UK building regulation target for new walls. Log cabins, even with internal insulation added, typically cannot match this.
If you want a building you can use comfortably in winter without high heating costs — a home office, a gym, a self-contained annexe — a SIP build is the better choice.
This depends on the size, height, location on your plot, and how it will be used. Smaller structures in the rear garden typically fall under Permitted Development. If the building is to be used as a separate living space (with sleeping accommodation), a formal planning application is usually required.
We always recommend checking with your local planning authority before proceeding. We're happy to help you understand what's likely to be required based on your specific situation.
Once on site, the structural shell typically goes up in 3–7 days. The full project — including base, panel erection, cladding, and complete interior fit-out — generally runs 4–8 weeks depending on size and specification.
From first enquiry to handover, allow 6–12 weeks to include design, quoting, panel manufacture lead time and scheduling. We'll give you a realistic programme at the quote stage.
Tell us about your project and we'll get back to you within one business day.
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