Woldring Location, Groningen | From HSB to SIPS

On Friesestraatweg in Groningen, the immense complex the Woldring Locatie is slowly but surely rising. From the specifications, the building was to be constructed with HSB elements, but main contractor Van Wijnen opted for another, more practical solution: Unidek SIPS (Structural Insulated Panel Systems) from Kingspan Unidek. Project Manager Arend Wiering explains why this switch was made.

The Woldring Location includes 435 apartments, primarily intended for young people, with a commercial plinth on the ground floor. The complex has 15 floors and a maximum height of 50 meters. During the design process, a switch was made from HSB elements to SIPS elements. "At an earlier stage, we had already discussed Unidek SIPS with Kingspan Unidek," says Wiering. "SIPS, with its specific properties, lends itself ideally to this project. The system is lightweight and therefore allows for a slender construction, without compromising the stability and insulation value of the facades. Compared to timber frame construction, Unidek SIPS even provides stiffer, more stable facades. A major advantage of using SIPS elements is that it makes the facade immediately wind and watertight. We therefore chose to hoist in the elements ready-made, equipped with the frames and glazing, so that work inside could start immediately." 

In total, Kingspan Unidek delivered no less than 8,000 m² of SIPS elements in different phases. "We are able to produce the elements quickly, which was also a requirement for this project due to the short lead time," says Youri Verwer of Kingspan Unidek. "The SIPS elements for this project measure 7 by 3 meters and are 210 millimeters thick, representing an Rc value of 5.2. The eaves were also constructed with SIPS elements, however, in a reduced thickness of 150 millimeters because of the lower insulation requirements. The SIPS elements were factory fitted with penetrations for the HVAC installations. The frames were also pre-assembled and then transported to Groningen in phases and on demand to three hubs near the construction site. Here, Van Wijnen assembled the frames and glazing, after which the elements could be lifted in completely ready for use."

The Unidek SIPS elements are lifted in ready-to-use, fitted with the frames and glazing.

Unidek SIPS meets Van Wijnen's expectations. "Within the entire team there has to be mutual trust and the willingness to bring this extensive project together to a beautiful and good end," says Wiering. "The collaboration with Kingspan Unidek, as part of this team, contributes positively to that. The building as it stands today, both in terms of progress and quality level, is proof of that. Without good cooperation, this would not be possible."