A mechanical estimation software system provides cost information for piping work and sheet metal estimating. The systems also offer labor and material pricing for a wide variety of assemblies. Many offer pre-built assemblies, and most are customizable for your specific needs.
Count on accurate estimates with a streamlined process. Perform digital takeoffs three to four times faster with easy-to-use estimating features. Easily incorporate equipment, overhead, sales tax, profit margin and more to create detailed proposals.
Integrates with BIM tools
Some mechanical estimating software integrates with BIM tools to make the estimation process easier. This technology allows estimators to check for accuracy of the models they are relying on for quantity takeoff, and it can also reduce the time spent generating pricing models. It can also increase the quality of work by reducing rework and eliminating errors that result in costly change orders.
Another advantage of using a mechanical estimating software that integrates with BIM is the ability to improve fabrication. Many mechanical contractors use offsite fabrication for their systems, and BIM has helped them cut costs by avoiding material waste, improving labor efficiency, and increasing the quality of installed work. This has led to improved project performance and reduced schedule delays.
A good mechanical estimating system will have a database of different pipe materials and size breaks, as well as the various methods of joining pipes together, such as soldered, brazed, welded, grooved, pressed, and push joints. It should also have a comprehensive list of HVAC construction standards, including ductwork and equipment. It should also include a variety of assembly/item details that can be customized for each user, such as the number of nails in a residential interior wall or the number of feet of drywall needed per project.
It is important to choose a mechanical estimating program that offers a variety of reports, including historical win rates and job costs compared to estimates. Some programs provide these reports automatically, while others require the user to customize them. Also, look for a program that is easy to use and includes full technical support.
Offers a variety of reports
A good mechanical estimation software should provide a wide range of reports. These include material and labor summaries, item breakdowns, and more. Some programs can even export to spreadsheets for further analysis. These programs also offer a variety of templates that can help you save time by pre-populating common tasks. They should also be compatible with fabrication equipment.
Some mechanical estimation software vendors also offer a training program to get new users familiar with the software. They can offer web based training, at their facility, or even at yours. In addition, they offer a number of videos that explain how to use the platform and specific tools.
A good mechanical estimating software should be fast and easy to use. It should be able to perform takeoffs quickly and accurately using digital measurements, and then translate that information into detailed estimates. It should also be able to support contractor and client change orders. It should be cloud based so that you can access it from any computer or device with an internet connection. This makes it easier to share and collaborate with others on projects. In addition, a good program will allow you to assign permissions to individual users so that they can edit or view only certain projects.
Allows you to customize your estimates
The best mechanical estimating software should allow you to customize your estimates based on the specific requirements of each job. For example, you should be able to choose different units of measurement and add custom formulas for volume, area, curved distances, etc. You should also be able to apply changes to multiple locations within the estimate document at once. This will save time and ensure that your calculations are consistent across all documents.
Other features that are important for a mechanical estimator include a large library of pre-built assemblies and the ability to easily create custom ones. In addition, the software should have integrated labor tables from MCAA or PHCC and a full set of cost information for piping materials and components, including fittings, valves, hangers, and sheet metal fabrication. It should also have a feature that allows you to import and customize your own list of formulas for complex calculations.
Another great feature of a mechanical estimating tool is that it can help you perform your takeoffs up to 3-4 times faster than traditional methods. This can be a huge advantage for mechanical contractors who are trying to win more work. In addition, the software can automatically count most plan symbols and calculate area and linear measurements. It can even incorporate labor, equipment, overage, profit margin, and sales tax into a detailed proposal.
Makes the estimating process easier
The software’s ability to make equipment connections, or assemblies, quickly and easily allows the user to create a complete list of all pipe, valves and fittings around a piece of equipment or fixture. This feature helps the user save time by reducing the number of individual calculations required to produce an estimate.
Another important feature that some users want is the capability to import the results of their on-screen takeoff program into the estimating program. This eliminates the need to repeat these results manually and reduces the risk of human error. It also makes calculating costs much easier and quicker.
In addition to saving time, mechanical estimating software can help you increase your profits by avoiding costly mistakes. For example, the program’s ability to automatically count plan symbols helps you avoid common errors such as missing dimensions. Additionally, it helps you incorporate labor, sales tax and equipment into your estimates more easily.
A good mechanical estimating software program is optimized to aid your natural workflow and remove as many repetitive tasks as possible. It should be able to import any material and supplier cost database that you use and have a wide range of options for modifying the default rates, markup and discounts. It should also have documentation and training videos that are easy to follow. Many companies offer standard subscription tiers that can be billed monthly or annually.