Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIP) Explained — and Thinner Options IWD Sells
Vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) are premium, very thin insulation panels used where almost no depth is available. This is an explainer for buyers who see VIPs mentioned in specs — plus an honest note on what Insulation Warehouse Direct stocks instead.
Quick answer
We do not stock vacuum insulated panels. VIPs are specialist products: high declared performance in a slim pack, but they must not be cut, drilled or punctured on site, and damaged panels lose most of their advantage. For tight spaces we do sell thinner high-performance options such as Kingspan Kooltherm phenolic boards (for example K103 floor boards and K118 insulated plasterboard) and standard PIR boards. Compare datasheets for the thickness you can actually fit — we will not invent side-by-side R-value claims here.
What VIPs are
- A rigid panel with a sealed core under vacuum and a protective envelope.
- Used in some retrofit floors, doors, and ultra-slim lining specs.
- Site practice is unforgiving: puncture = performance collapse.
What to buy from us for tight depths instead
| Option | Where it often appears | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Kooltherm phenolic (e.g. K103, K118) | Floors and insulated plasterboard linings where slim depth matters | Kingspan / insulated plasterboard |
| PIR foil-faced boards | Floors, walls, roofs with more depth available | PIR / Celotex / Recticel |
| Multifoil | Some shallow rafter / hybrid details with required air gaps | SuperFOIL |
Work out thickness with the PIR U-value calculator and manufacturer tables. Live guides such as Kooltherm K103 vs PIR floors and what thickness of PIR you need help you choose among products we actually sell.
Frequently asked questions
Can you order VIPs in for me?
Not as a listed stock line. Ask {TEL} if you have a named product on a bill of quantities — we will say honestly if we cannot supply it.
Are phenolic boards the same as VIPs?
No. Phenolic and PIR are different technologies. Use each product’s datasheet.
Do you install insulation, do surveys or help with grants?
No. Insulation Warehouse Direct sells insulation materials online. We do not install insulation, carry out surveys or handle grant applications. If you want it fitted, use a qualified installer, and for grants check the official GOV.UK energy schemes. We are happy to supply the materials your installer specifies.
| Where | What we deliver | Delivery charge |
|---|---|---|
| England | All ranges | Free on insulation, plasterboard and drylining from £400 ex VAT. Celotex: £400 ex VAT minimum, free delivery. Access panels: £15 + VAT under £300 ex VAT, free from £300 |
| Mainland Wales and mainland Scotland | British Gypsum (including Gypframe), Celotex, Knauf and access panels | £400 ex VAT minimum plus £40 + VAT (access panels: £15 + VAT under £300 ex VAT, free from £300) |
| Scottish islands | Not delivered | – |
| Northern Ireland | Not delivered | – |
Company: Bay Drywall and Insulation Supplies Ltd (company no. 14473556), Unit 3 Babbage Court, Totnes Industrial Estate, Totnes, Devon TQ9 5JE.