How to Estimate Construction Jobs
Accurately estimate construction jobs in just five steps for ensuring project success within time and budget. Construction estimation Can be tough but by dividing it in steps will simplify the process. Here’s how you can estimate construction jobs effectively in just five steps:
Step 1: Understand the Construction Project Scope
The first step of estimating a construction job is to understand the project scope. To understand the scope review the project’s plans(Drawings), and specifications. Here’s how to effectively understand the project scope:
1. Study Architectural Drawings and Blueprints:
Study all drawings, and blueprints and understand type of drawings, including site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, and detail drawings.
2. Analyze Specifications:
Read the specifications provided in drawings/documents and understand material requirements including brands, models, and types. Then understand the standards for installation, construction methods, and finishing following the building codes and regulations.
Step 2: Material Takeoff and Labor Estimation
After understanding the project scope, the next step is material takeoff and labor estimation. Accurate quantity takeoff and labor estimates helps in budgeting and scheduling the project timeline. Method of Material Takeoff and labor estimation:
1. Material Takeoff:
Material takeoff is not the first but it is the most important step in construction estimating process. Material takeoff can be done manually or by using digital tools or software’s like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu. It involves measuring and counting all the materials required to complete a construction project.
2. Labor Estimation:
Estimate the number of labor hours required for each task one by one following the CSI division. Determine the crew size and types of labor involved (e.g., carpenters, electricians, plumbers).
Step 3: Calculate Equipment and Overhead Costs
Calculating equipment and overhead costs is important for creating a construction estimate. Equipment costs include the expenses associated with the machinery and tools needed for the project, while overhead costs includes expenses that keep the project running smoothly.
1. Equipment Costs
- Identify Required Equipment: Identify all the equipment required for the project, such as excavators, cranes, concrete mixers, forklifts, and smaller tools like power drills and saws and estimate the duration and intensity of equipment usage.
- Calculate Equipment Costs: After identifying all the equipment required now its time to calculate the equipment cost which can be calculated differently for owned equipment and rented equipment. For owned equipment add the depreciation and repair and maintenance cost where as for rented equipment add rent with delivery and pickup charges.
- Fuel and Operating Costs: Calculate the cost of fuel and operators wages required to run the equipment.