Construction estimators are tasked with accurately predicting the cost of building projects. This is important because a construction project’s estimated costs can affect the budget and timeline of its completion.
To prepare estimates, building services estimators review the project plans and specifications. They also evaluate any structural requirements and determine the materials needed for the project. They also consider non-standard items like bonding and insurance coverage.
Quantity takeoff
Performing quantity takeoff is an important part of the construction process. It involves reviewing project plans and estimating material requirements. It is a time-consuming process, but it can be very helpful to project managers. Moreover, it can also help reduce project cost overruns. It is used by building contractors, engineers and draftsmen all over the world. It helps to isolate the materials that a client needs and incorporate them into the price estimate.
There are several ways to conduct a takeoff, including manual and digital methods. The former uses paper blueprints, a scale ruler, and a calculator. The latter involves using a takeoff tool that scans 2D blueprints and converts them into 3D models. This method is more efficient than the traditional one, as it provides a much more detailed estimate.
It’s important to remember that a thorough takeoff is crucial to any building project. Trying to cut corners at this stage can lead to inaccurate estimates and costly mistakes down the road. For example, it’s important to accurately calculate unit count, surface area, and volume for all your construction materials. Unit count is the most important aspect of a takeoff because it allows you to figure out all the physical materials that you need for your project. For example, you’ll need to know how many standard wall studs and light fixtures you’re going to need for the job.
Bid package
Bid packages are a critical part of the construction estimation process. They provide contractors with a complete set of instructions that help them create an accurate estimate of the project’s scope. They also help project owners mitigate financial risk by ensuring that all bids meet submission requirements.
Bidding processes vary, but most bid packages include a scope of work, cost breakdowns, and a schedule of values. They may also contain a bill of quantities (BOQ) or bill of materials. In addition, some bids require a site visit to verify site conditions. Contractors can then use the information in these documents to determine the price for the work they will perform.
In some cases, the estimator will subdivide the project into work packages that are assigned to specialty contractors. These work packages are usually based on divisions in the Construction Specification Institute’s MasterFormat: concrete, masonry, metals, finishes, and plumbing. Using these work packages can help the estimator accurately and thoroughly take off the quantities of materials and labor needed for each individual trade.
The estimation of the project costs includes all the items that are required for the construction of the building. It also includes the design, materials, and equipment costs. In most cases, the contractor can get estimates for these costs from suppliers. However, it is important to keep in mind that these estimates are not necessarily accurate. Keeping up to date with the latest material and labor costs is essential for accurate bids.
Work packages
Work packages are the smallest indivisible units of work on a project. They help estimate costs, define quality measures, fix timelines, and track progress. They are also used to communicate project status to stakeholders. They are often defined, grouped, and managed using organization charts and other tools, such as WBS-specific software.
Each work package consists of an activity and its duration. These activities are further decomposed into tasks, which are the efforts that make up a work package. The task level of the WBS is important, as it provides a clear definition for estimating costs and duration. However, it is not recommended to create work packages at the activity level. In fact, this can lead to confusion and miscommunications among team members.
When creating a work package, be sure to consider all of the project variables. For example, a site with poor drainage may increase the cost of excavation and underground work. In addition, it is essential to review the structural drawings of the building, as this will affect material requirements and equipment needs.
During a site visit, an estimator will review the design documents, inspect the structure and underlying conditions of the site, and perform a walkthrough with the client to determine the feasibility of construction. They will then make a detailed list of the materials and equipment needed for the job. They will also evaluate the electrical, mechanical, and plumbing (MEP) requirements.
Communication skills
Getting into a career as a building estimator requires strong math proficiency and excellent communication skills. You’ll need to create and communicate with teams of other construction workers, and you’ll also be communicating with project managers and clients. A good way to get into this field is by taking a construction-related course or apprenticeship.
A large part of your job as a building estimator involves creating a list of the materials required to build the structure. This is called a “material takeoff” and it’s an essential component of the estimating process. You’ll need to carefully examine blueprints and schematics in order to create a comprehensive list of everything that is needed for the job. This can include everything from concrete for the foundation to wood for framing, electrical and plumbing supplies, drywall and other finishing materials. Errors in this phase can result in costly overages for the project.
You’ll also need to communicate with the local market in order to determine material prices and labor rates. This is especially important for larger projects, such as hospitals, schools and office buildings. Some materials, such as wood, may be cheaper in certain regions. It’s also important to consider the local weather conditions and construction schedules when determining material costs.
The best building estimators are highly proficient at balancing profit and expenses in bidding situations. They can also rely on a wide range of tools to ensure that their estimates are accurate and reliable. These include specialized estimating software, spreadsheets and a variety of other tools.