
SIP True Cost Bid Tool

The SIPs True Cost Bidding Tool (STCBT) helps demonstrate the added value of a SIP project with every lead that your business encounters. It’s an easy and free way to calculate the additional value included in a SIP structure that conveys more than energy performance – it demonstrates the true cost associated with projects and the real savings in choosing SIPs.
SIPs enthusiasts know that SIPs are better and faster than conventional construction methods, but proving reduced cost has been challenging until recently. In 2023, SIPA launched the STCBT — a free online tool developed in partnership with Sam Rashkin, retired Chief Architect of the U.S. Department of Energy and author of Housing 2.0: A Disruption Survival Guide. After being used in the field for project comparisons and real-life calculations, SIP builders, sales representatives and home owners using the program suggested a few improvements, and this has resulted in the STCBT 2.0 available now.
Helpful Documentation
The STCBT 2.0 makes the cost comparison of projects using SIPs even easier! Users can use three new companion resources to make the compelling case that SIPs are the best choice. Check out these documents:
- STCBT Checklist — A checklist of fields to prepare for calculations once ready to use the comparison calculator: e.g., House plans PDF, Insulation details, Air Flow Control details, etc.
- SIPA True Cost Bidding Tool — Input Guidance
- STCBT User Tips — Best practices for using the STCBT.
- STCBT Optimization — Factors contributing to a SIPs optimized building that will minimize cost.
Log on to the platform and create a free account to start comparing building method costs today. The SIPs True Cost Calculator can also be downloaded as a blank or prefilled spreadsheet as a free Digital Resource. Additionally, those with more questions are encouraged to contact any SIPA Manufacturer for more help and information.
Explainer Videos
Video #1: Demonstrate the complete value package of using SIPs compared to stick-frame construction.
Video #2: This wall through provides an overview of the tool and how it works.
Video #1: Why Use the STCBT to Deliver More Compelling Bids
Video #2: STCBT Overview
Once users enter project details, the SIPs True Cost Calculator generates custom reports that compare the costs and benefits of their SIPs projects to traditional framing methods. For many projects, the report will show savings of between $8,000 and $12,000.
SIPA and Rashkin partnered on this project because of "today's labor crisis, new energy codes, and housing shortages, all of which combine to make a case for SIPs more compelling than ever," said SIPA Executive Director Jack Armstrong. "As Sam explained in his presentations at the International Builders Show, the SIPs True Cost Calculator can counter age-old cost objections and help catapult SIPs into the mainstream with a clear value proposition for builders," said Armstrong.
Video #3: Learn how to apply project details into the tool to demonstrate the compelling comparative results for SIP construction.
Video #4: Analyze the results to close a deal. The Strength and Resilience cells from the calculator are where SIPs outshine contemporary construction and hedge the greatest leverage for a better value structure.