Factory-fitted Proctor Group membranes formed part of the successful construction of the Ultrapanel demonstration house. The building envelope for the three-bedroom home, from sole plate to ridge, was erected in a single day using Ultrapanel Building Technologies’ Category 2 MMC SIP system.
The system incorporates the vapour-permeable Proctorwrap Reflect® membrane within its external wall panels. An innovative cold roof panel also features the air-permeable, low-resistance (APLR) Proctor Air® underlay.
Together, the two membranes enable SIP panels to be delivered directly to site and installed rapidly, providing a watertight building envelope within hours. Panels can be specified to meet a range of regulatory requirements and standards, including Passivhaus, while minimising moisture-related risks.
Proctor Group worked closely with Ultrapanel Building Technologies to develop membrane specifications tailored to the offsite manufacture of the panels.
For example, Proctor Air® is typically supplied in 1m-wide rolls to allow for easier manual handling on site. In a factory environment, however, the production line can accommodate heavier products. Proctor Group therefore supplied a bespoke 3m-wide roll to match the width of the cold roof panels.
Proctor Group sales director John Johnston attended the demonstration house construction and said:
“At a time when labour costs are so expensive, Ultrapanel’s SIP system will likely be very appealing to housing associations, and social housing providers in particular. That could make a real difference to whether the UK can achieve its ambitious housing targets.”
