Attendees of this course will learn the skills and techniques necessary for developing cost estimates. They will learn to accurately perform a variety of takeoffs and apply material and labor costs to assemble an estimate.
The primary qualifications to become a mechanical estimator include a high school diploma and on-the-job training. However, some estimators also earn post-secondary degrees.
Estimating Take-Offs
Before an estimator can start to create a project bid, they must first have a clear picture of the material requirements for the work. A process known as construction takeoff must be completed to accurately quantify the materials needed for a job. It’s a necessary step for estimating costs, especially when a contractor wants to submit competitive bids for projects.
Construction takes can be done manually using rulers and pencils or with specialized equipment such as a blueprint digitizer. The latter is a handheld tool that tracks and records lengths as you move it across the blueprint, making it much easier to do more accurate measurements. The use of software for takeoff has also become more commonplace, allowing contractors to streamline the process and improve accuracy.
An accurate takeoff can pave the way for an equally precise estimate and save money for your business by ensuring that you have enough materials and help on hand to complete the job on time and within budget. Conversely, a poorly executed takeoff can throw off your entire project estimate and cost you extra on labor, materials or equipment rentals.
The best practice is to check with the architects, designers or project leaders before starting a construction takeoff. This ensures that the most recent version of the plans and designs are being used, which can prevent surprises down the line that could throw off your final estimates.
Estimating Roadwork and Paving
The process of estimating roadwork and paving is one that requires a large amount of skill. The goal is to produce an estimate that meets the engineer’s requirements while being competitive in a bid. This can be a complex task that requires the right mix of knowledge of labor rates, material costs, equipment rental and purchase, etc.
The first step in the estimating process for roadway projects is to conduct quantity takeoffs (QTO). This includes both linear-based and area-based project scopes. Once the QTO is complete, the engineer’s estimate can be prepared based on those quantities. This is a critical component to the successful construction of roadway projects and helps with budget compliance during construction.
Once the engineer’s estimate is completed, it should be submitted for approval to a higher level of management. This can be done through a formal presentation or a less formal review. In either case, the key to success is communication with those in charge of the project and ensuring the estimates are being interpreted correctly.
The qualifications for a career as a mechanical estimator vary depending on the industry. A bachelor’s degree is typically required, but training through a vocational school or on-the-job experience can also be an option. This career also requires research skills, flexibility and teamwork.
Estimating HVAC Sheet Metal
A mechanical estimator makes determinations about the types of equipment needed for a business, company or job. They then secure and manage that equipment. They also estimate the costs of various projects. Some mechanical estimators may be required to have a post-secondary degree in their field while others can get into the career with a high school education and on-the-job training. Additional qualifications include communication and teamwork skills, math competences, organizational skills and the ability to work overtime to meet project deadlines.
This course focuses on the process of estimating sheet metal, plumbing and fire protection components of a project. It covers the relative costs for these systems and their impact on other construction systems including the building envelope.
The course covers the steps of preparing a comprehensive and accurate commercial HVAC, duct and fire protection estimate, including takeoffs. This includes the use of software for a detailed quantity survey and the preparation of a bill of quantities (BOQ) for this type of work. It is designed to help students understand how to create estimates using a time-proven methodology, complete with a comprehensive set of ready-to-use forms and a wealth of labor and price data. It also demonstrates how FastPIPE estimating software simplifies bidding of both round and square ductwork jobs, based on company construction standards or purchased duct.
Estimating Commercial Buildings
As a mechanical estimator, you will be responsible for creating and reviewing estimates for projects. You will also collaborate with other project staff, adhere to industry standards, and participate in management meetings. The qualifications required for this role are mechanical expertise, cost estimating experience, numeracy skills, attention to detail, and computer competences. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is often preferred by employers.
The process of estimating commercial buildings includes the review of bid documents, quantity takeoffs and pricing of the work. You will learn how to use the square foot method and other techniques to create accurate estimates. In addition, you will learn how to prepare Requests for Quotations (RFQ), which are used to obtain a price from suppliers. These RFQs include material and equipment descriptions, quantities, delivery dates, and any special requirements.
You will also learn how to estimate HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection. This includes the relative costs of these systems and how they impact other building components. In addition, you will be introduced to the concept of rate analysis and how to calculate duct area.
With the right training, you can become a mechanical estimator who is respected by contractors and clients. Taking an online construction estimating course is a great way to get started on your career path. The courses are taught by seasoned construction professionals and can be completed on your own time.