BenS

Thanks Peter but I've done a lot of research into the different methods and I've decided on SIPs as my main build system (I have considered the ICF and Durisol options). I'm sure it's a passionate subject and some people would swear that build system X is best and others would swear that X is flawed and build system Y is better, and so on. In this case having chosen SIPs as my main build system I'm now considering the options for the outer facade. i.e. block and render vs cementboard and render. Thanks Ben

Hi, I'm planning on using SIPs as the build system for our Self Build (If I manage to find a plot!) but I see that there are a lot of options on what to combine SIPs with. For example, SIP and Brick, SIP and Block & Render, SIP and Cementboard & Render etc. We probably want a render finish, so that gives us the choice of block and render or cementboard and render for the outer walls, but I've seen very little comparing these options. The obvious points are: Cementboard and render is going to be a lot thinner than block and render Presumably cementboard will be a lot quicker than building a block wall? Presumably cementboard is cheaper (Both in terms of purchase costs and fitting costs)? But what are the downsides? i.e. why would anyone choose block and render over cementboard and render? Cementboard is obviously a lot thinner than blocks, so does this have any effect on thermal performance? If so then presumably having thinner walls would allow me to have thicker SIPs panels, which would hopefully more than compensate? Thanks in advance Ben

Thanks all, I've already had some good advice on here about looking for a plot. I'm (Happily) surprised how active and helpful this forum is! Thanks Ben

Just a quick post to say hello. Me and my family (Wife, daughter (9) and son (7)) live in the Horsham area (West Sussex) and are looking to do a Self Build. I say Self Build but I don't actually mean I'll be doing any of the actual building... putting up a curtain pole is about my limit! The biggest problem seems to be finding a plot in this area (Within about 10-15 miles of Horsham), but I'll post a new topic on that in the relevant section. I look forward to speaking with you on here. Thanks Ben