Day zero planning
A builder promises a two-day shell, a self-builder has booked time off work, and a turnkey client wants minimal disruption. The lorry turns up and the slab is 12mm out, or access is blocked by parked cars, and the day unravels. When the base is square, the sole plate is set, and the staging area is ready, panels fly into place. UltraSIPS uses a site checklist so day zero protects the whole programme.
Why site planning decides the outcome
SIP installs are fast, but only when the site is ready. The biggest delays are not in the panels. They come from access, foundations, and missing coordination.
Comparison
What slows installs the most
Plan these before the lorry arrives.
Foundation issues
- Out-of-level slabs
- Sole plate lines missing
- Fixing points not set
Access and staging
- Blocked roads or tight turns
- No crane pad or stable ground
- Panels not staged in order
Weather and adhesives
- Rain delays curing
- Wind risks panel handling
- No protection for exposed edges
Crew readiness
- Undefined roles
- No lift plan
- Safety checks skipped
Overhead obstructions
Before you commit to a crane day, check overhead lines, tree canopies, and neighbouring structures. A blocked lift path can cost a full day and a second crane booking.
Weather vs schedule
SIPs can handle short exposure, but heavy rain and wind disrupt adhesives, lifting, and sealing. Plan the install window with a buffer day and protect exposed edges.
Comparison
Weather readiness
Small prep steps avoid major rework.
Wind plan
- Set max wind speed for lifts
- Use tag lines and clear signals
- Pause lifts early if gusts rise
Rain plan
- Keep adhesives dry
- Cover panel edges between lifts
- Seal joints quickly
Cold plan
- Check adhesive cure times
- Warm sealants if needed
- Keep storage dry
Builder vs installer responsibilities
Clarify who owns which tasks: base prep, lifting, sealing, and on-site corrections. SIP installs are fast when every role is clear.
The crew and safety
A small, experienced crew is better than a large, uncoordinated one. Set a lift supervisor, a banksman, and an install lead.
Comparison
Crew roles
Define roles before the first lift.
Lift supervisor
- Owns lift plan and safety checks
- Calls pauses for wind or obstructions
- Coordinates with crane driver
Install lead
- Sets panel order
- Checks line and plumb
- Manages sealing sequence
Banksman
- Directs crane lifts
- Maintains clear zones
- Confirms safe landing points
Access to unload and stage
Plan a clear path for the lorry, a stable crane pad, and a staging zone where panels are stacked in install order. Shuffling panels wastes crane time and increases damage risk.
Shuffling and shuttling
If the site is tight, plan for shuttling: a secondary drop zone or a telehandler to move panels. Decide this before delivery, not on the day.
The foundation
SIPs need a flat, square base. Check:
- Level across all bearing points
- Diagonal dimensions to confirm square
- Fixing lines and sole plate positions
Sole plate and fixing strategy
The sole plate is your alignment reference. Set it accurately, seal under it, and confirm fixing locations before panels arrive.
Electrical and plumbing feeds
Confirm service entry points before panels arrive. Cutting holes after install risks damaging load paths and airtightness layers.
Correcting plumb
Panels can be adjusted, but only within reason. Know the tolerance range and correct early. A small error at the base becomes a big error at roof level.
Equipment options and specs
Choose lifting equipment based on panel size, site access, and lift height.
Comparison
Equipment options
Match equipment to the kit and site.
Crane
- Fastest for full kit installs
- Needs stable pad and access
- Best for larger panels
Telehandler
- Flexible on tight sites
- Slower than crane
- Good for smaller kits
Manual handling
- Only for small panels
- Higher labour impact
- Limited by panel weight
Unloading SIPs
Unload panels in the order they will be installed. Keep protective wrapping on until the moment of installation.
Damage prevention and storage
Store panels off the ground, covered, and supported evenly. Check for corner damage before install.
Site planning checklist
- Verify level and square foundation.
- Set sole plate lines and fixings.
- Confirm crane access and staging zones.
- Confirm overhead obstructions are clear.
- Plan protection for panels and adhesives.
- Coordinate electrical and plumbing feeds.
- Brief crew roles and safety plan.