Value build quoted me but they quoted sip walls and trussed roof. I really wanted an all sip building system

Valuebuild is a member of SIPA. They reach out to all 50 states. They're located in Florida. Depending on where you're building why would you not source the closest SIP distributor(s) to you. I've never heard any Pros or Cons about Valuebuild. It has always struck me funny, that they could compete in California (The state I do business in) simply due to the cost of trucking. I also think that most people would want to work with a more local distributor who has built relationships with builders, architects, designers, and engineers that can supply all the services to you that are involved in the building process.

By kit based approach, what does that mean ? Are they supplying you with just your SIP framing systems or are they supplying you with all of your framing products. Historically, kit homes target people who are not able to qualify for regular financing. Kit dealers will provide that financing at a premium cost. It's cheaper to purchase your framing materials locally and direct. Kit homes can provide those same materials but they will put a hefty mark on them.

If you have done enough reading on this site, you may have heard the terms RTI (Ready to Install) and RTA (Ready to Assemble) used. In the SIP world this is close to being a "Kit" framing package. These systems are delivered to your site, ready to put together like a Lincoln Log set. It's very close to a kit. All depends on what the term is (kit).......................... is.

I am actually located in the Province of Ontario, Canada. Valubuild (Canada) is based out of Toronto, approximately 2 hrs. from my location. By 'kit based approach', I mean they supply a RTI SIPs framing, sub floor/flooring system and a truss based roof system. I would definitely source interior framing materials locally. I am not interested in this product for financing reasons, but for the perceived simplifications it presents with respect to budgeting and construction, as this is my first project of this magnitude.

Value Build operates by building relations with manufacturers so that they can compete in the same areas at relatively the same cost. The thing to consider is how experienced are you at installing the panels, sub floor / flooring systems, are you insured to do this type of work, are they guaranteeing the just the kit or the installation? I would do my homework and see what is required of you in this project and be sure that you are able to meet the requirements of the scope of work needed to be performed. another thing is go by your gut instict, it usually goes well.

Rockwood,
Hi, a friend of mine and I decided to build sip homes here in Florida. He went with valuebuild, and for him they were no value! They didn't have the engineering support that was claimed, and did an all around, poor job on his kit. Nightmare would be the one word descriptive. But this is just one experience and in Canada they may be better. One suggestion, find out exactly what engineering needs you have from the code enforcers and make sure that they can deliver the goods. Their slow response to getting the engineering acceptable by our county cost him at least a year in time. Total time for his project with a contractor building it was over two years, I went with steel sips and after the shell was erected in 9 days, I did all my work with a helper and my move in time was one year. Both were two story mine was 60 by 32 his was 54 by 34.

Thanks for all the comments guys. I have decided to take Valubuild off my list of possible suppliers for our project. Too many red flags coming up.

I'm not in agreement that you should cross your local Valubuild off your list, behind the few comments I've seen posted here. Are they owned and ran by the same managers or is each outlet different as an independent business only using the Valubuild name for their ICC reports ?

In my area in California, I'm centered in what they call the "Cornfield" of SIP distributors. There are two of each type (manufacturers) that independent distributors distribute for. Couple of the businesses work under the Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) principle and are doing a great dis-service to the SIP industry and the other three will give you good value and services for your investment. My point is that your local company could be good. Discuss the issues with them, that you have picked up on from this site, that has you looking to cross them off your list. Just don't do it because one distributor of a manufacturer has lousy business practices. Others, selling the same manufacturers products will do right by you.

Value Build and Ameripanel are owned and operated by the same person and crew. They do not have their own ICC reports because the manufacturer nothing. the are very simillar to EZ build who is just a reseller. They tend to get there sips from people like Fisher, Rcontorl and so on and are shipped from the nearest location. they have truss companies and supply companies for the rest of their packages. they will tell you that they are their panels but in all reality they are not because another person manufacutures them alll they do is sell. Call both number and ask for Nate Aloni at both and see if you get him if he still works their.

That was very interesting information about Valuebuild. Thanks NWP

I have used them before in Canada. I would never use them again. You are dealing with a one man show. Would you put fifty grand into a one man show ? i dont think so You are buying from some guy in a washed out one room office who provides no value. Valubuild just takes your order and ships it out - there is no value there. Just call Insulspan or the many otehr guys out there and save thousands.