PEP-Cloud vs BuildFolio
Feature-by-feature comparison for roofing contractors. See how PEP-Cloud stacks up against BuildFolio’s Living Estimates, satellite measurements, and modern estimate system.
Quick Verdict
PEP-Cloud is a solid estimating tool for roofing. BuildFolio does everything PEP-Cloud does, plus free satellite measurements, Living Estimates with checkbox pricing, and a free tier. If you’re starting fresh or ready to upgrade, BuildFolio is the better choice in 2026.
Feature Comparison
Side-by-side breakdown of PEP-Cloud and BuildFolio features:
| Feature | PEP-Cloud | BuildFolio |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing & Plans | ||
| Free tier available | ||
| Starting price | See their site | $0 (Free tier) |
| Pro features price | See their site | $49/mo |
| Roof Measurements | ||
| Satellite measurements | Via EagleView integration | Free (Google Solar API) |
| Instant measurements | ~10 seconds | |
| Pitch detection | ||
| Segment breakdown | ||
| Estimates & Quotes | ||
| Living Estimates | ||
| Checkbox pricing | ||
| Real-time totals | ||
| Material photo cards | ||
| Presentation mode | ||
| Spouse sharing (magic links) | ||
| PDF export | ||
| E-signatures | ||
| Estimating & Templates | ||
| Good/Better/Best packages | ||
| Template library | ||
| Material assemblies | ||
| Labor rate tables | ||
| Waste factor calculations | ||
| AI & Automation | ||
| AI Photo-to-Quote | ||
| Storm lead detection | ||
| Estimate view tracking | See their site | |
| Platform & Support | ||
| Mobile app | ||
| QuickBooks integration | ||
| Template import from PEP | N/A | |
PEP-Cloud details reflect our reading of publicly available materials at the time of writing and may be out of date — check the vendor’s site for current features and pricing.
When to Choose Each
Choose PEP-Cloud If:
- You’re already deeply invested in PEP-Cloud workflows
- You don’t need interactive estimates
- You’re happy with your current measurement workflow
- Your team is resistant to change
Choose BuildFolio If:
- You want free satellite measurements
- You need interactive Living Estimates
- You want checkbox pricing to upsell
- You’re starting fresh or ready to upgrade
- You want a free tier to get started
Bottom Line
BuildFolio does everything PEP-Cloud does, plus adds Living Estimates with checkbox pricing and free satellite measurements – and there’s a free tier to start. The main reason to stick with PEP-Cloud is switching cost and team familiarity – but BuildFolio’s template import makes migration straightforward.
Pricing Comparison
PEP-Cloud
- Estimating templates
- PDF estimates
- E-signatures
- EagleView integration
- Mobile app
BuildFolio
- Everything in PEP-Cloud, plus:
- Free satellite measurements
- Living Estimates
- Checkbox pricing
- Material photo cards
- AI Photo-to-Quote
- Template import from PEP-Cloud
Key Differences Explained
Free Satellite Measurements
PEP-Cloud integrates with EagleView for measurement reports (see those vendors’ sites for pricing). BuildFolio uses Google Solar API – free, unlimited, 10-second delivery, with no per-report fees. Learn more
Living Estimates
PEP-Cloud generates PDF estimates. BuildFolio creates interactive web estimates where customers select options, see totals update, and sign online. Fewer revision cycles. Learn more
Checkbox Pricing
BuildFolio lets customers check boxes to add optional items, watching their total change in real-time. Higher average tickets. Learn more
Material Photo Cards
Show customers what each shingle or material looks like with 16:9 photo galleries built into your estimates. Learn more
Ready to Switch from PEP-Cloud?
Import your templates and try BuildFolio’s advanced features free.
Start Free TrialFrequently Asked Questions
Can I import my PEP-Cloud templates to BuildFolio?
Yes. Export your templates as CSV from PEP-Cloud, then use BuildFolio’s import wizard. Most contractors complete the migration in 30-60 minutes. See the import guide.
Is BuildFolio’s satellite data as accurate as EagleView?
They answer different questions. BuildFolio gives an imagery-based planning estimate. Accuracy varies with imagery quality and age, subject-building selection, attached structures, trees, and roof complexity. EagleView sells a documentation-grade measurement with a stated tolerance, which is what insurers and complex commercial roofs need. Many contractors use BuildFolio for quick quotes and EagleView for insurance documentation. Verify the building and dimensions on site before a claim, contract, final bid, or material order.
How does BuildFolio keep pricing low?
BuildFolio is newer and built on modern infrastructure. We use Google’s free Solar API instead of charging for measurements. Our free tier is supported by Pro subscribers.
Does BuildFolio work with QuickBooks?
Yes. BuildFolio syncs with QuickBooks Online, just like PEP-Cloud. Push invoices, sync customers, and track payments.
What if I need help migrating?
Our support team can walk you through the migration. We also offer white-glove migration service for Pro subscribers – we’ll import your templates for you.
Can I try BuildFolio before canceling PEP-Cloud?
Absolutely. Start your free trial, import templates, run both systems in parallel. Cancel PEP-Cloud when you’re confident in the switch.