The cost of a SIP house cannot be calculated from the panel price alone. Alongside the wall system, the foundations, roof, building services and finishing work also affect the total.
When comparing prices, first clarify exactly what each figure covers. The panel price per square metre, the wall system price and the total construction cost do not mean the same thing.
SIP panels, a wall system or complete construction?
The SIP panel price covers the structural element with specified dimensions and technical properties. On its own, it does not represent the cost of a finished wall or the complete construction of a building.
The wall system price may include additional components and preparatory work beyond the panels. These may include fitted windows and doors, internal plasterboard lining or external thermal insulation. The exact scope depends on the version selected.
A construction quote sets out the materials and work included for the agreed level of completion. It shows which items the contractor has allowed for beyond the wall system and which need to be ordered separately.
To assess the total cost, consider material prices together with the associated labour costs. A lower purchase price alone does not necessarily mean a cheaper build.
What affects the cost of the wall system and construction?
The size and design of the building
The quantity of wall system required can be determined from the length and height of the walls and the dimensions of the doors and windows. The floor area of the house alone is not enough.
The floor plan, number of storeys and design of larger openings also affect the quantities of materials and work required. These can be assessed more accurately using the plans.
The technical specification of the wall system
As well as the construction and thickness of the panels, the additional components included in the wall system also matter. A basic SIP structure has a different cost from a version that includes windows and doors, internal lining or additional external insulation.
When comparing options, consider the cost of the work still to be done, not just the purchase price of the wall system.
The level of completion
The price of a structural shell and the price of construction that also includes finishing work cover different amounts of work. To compare them, you need to know how far the build will progress for the quoted amount.
The terms “structural shell” and “turnkey” alone are not enough for a comparison. The detailed technical specification and itemised quote show whether the foundations, roof, building services, floor and wall finishes, and painting are included in the price.
The construction site
The location of the build and access to the plot may also affect the cost of delivery, unloading and any mechanical lifting required. On-site costs can therefore differ even with the same wall system.
The quote should make clear which on-site costs are included in the amount and which need to be paid separately.
What should you check in a construction quote?
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Technical specification: What wall system and layer build-up does the quote include? Does it cover the necessary additional materials and structural components?
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Scope of work: What level of completion will the building reach for the quoted amount? Which tasks are the contractor’s responsibility, and which do you need to order separately?
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Delivery and on-site costs: Are delivery, unloading and any lifting equipment included? What other costs should you allow for on site?
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Amount payable: Is the price exclusive or inclusive of VAT? What is the payment schedule?
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Deadlines and validity: How long is the quote valid, and what construction schedule is offered? How will the amount change if you later modify the plans or technical specification?
If you compare several quotes, use the same plans and requirements for each. Add the cost of anything missing from a quote before making a decision based on the totals.
Frequently asked questions about SIP panel prices
Is the floor area of the house enough to estimate the cost?
It can provide a starting point, but a detailed cost calculation also requires the wall dimensions, building design and desired level of completion. Houses with the same floor area can require different quantities of materials.
How accurate is the price without completed plans?
Without completed plans, you can work with a preliminary estimate. As the floor plan, wall system specification and scope of work become clearer, the cost may also change. It is therefore important to clarify the assumptions behind an indicative price.
Does the wall system price include on-site assembly?
This cannot be determined from the wall system price alone. Check the itemised quote to see how materials, delivery and on-site labour are listed, and exactly which tasks the amount covers.
Will cheaper panels make the entire build cheaper?
Not necessarily. Alongside the panel price, you need to consider the cost of additional components, on-site work and the remaining finishing work. Comparing the same technical specification and level of completion reveals which option costs less overall.
Would you like a quote from us?
We supply the SIP wall system, while our partner contractors provide individual construction quotes.
Request a construction quote